Wool

Wool is a natural textile fiber taken from sheep and other animals such as goats, alpacas, or llamas. It is composed mainly of keratin proteins with a small amount of natural oils (lanolin).

Description of what it is like

Wool is soft and springy, with a crimped texture that traps air. It insulates even when damp, resists flames better than most plant fibers, and can feel slightly oily from lanolin.

Origin and where to find it

• Environments: Pastoral lands, farms, or any region where sheep or fiber animals are raised.
• Signs: Thick fleeces that can be sheared annually; shed fibers on fences or bedding.
• It is a natural material that requires cleaning and fiber preparation.

Minimum processing required

• Shearing: Remove the fleece without cutting the skin.
• Sorting: Separate by fiber length and cleanliness.
• Scouring: Wash out dirt and lanolin with warm water and mild soap or ash.
• Carding or combing: Align fibers for spinning.
• Spinning: Twist fibers into Yarn.
• Optional: Felting by heat, moisture, and agitation.

Tools needed to work on it

• Shears or sharp blades for shearing.
• Baskets or cloth for collecting fleece.
• Warm water, soap, and tubs for scouring.
• Carders or combs for aligning fibers.
• Spindle or spinning wheel for yarn.
• Loom or needles for weaving and knitting.

Common forms of use

• Raw fleece: For stuffing or rough insulation.
• Yarn: For weaving and knitting clothing.
• Felt: Dense, water-resistant sheets for hats, boots, and pads.
• Woven cloth: Blankets, rugs, and outerwear.

Possible substitutes

• Plant fibers like flax, hemp, or cotton.
• Fur or hides for warmth and protection.
• Synthetic fibers (modern).

Limitations and common failures

• Moths and pests: Stored wool is vulnerable to larvae.
• Shrinkage: Hot water and agitation can felt wool unintentionally.
• Moisture: Poor drying leads to mildew and odor.
• Abrasion: Coarse use can pill or wear fibers.

Risks and safety

• Dust irritation: Carding and shaking fleece creates fine dust.
• Allergic reactions: Some people are sensitive to lanolin or coarse fibers.
• Fire: Wool resists flame but can still smolder if packed tightly.

Related materials

• Leather: Another animal-derived material for clothing and gear.
• Yarn: Spun wool is a primary yarn source.
• Cotton: Plant fiber that blends with wool for softness or breathability.
• Textile Dye: Used to color wool fibers.
• Plant fibers: Common alternative fiber source.