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Softening a Wool Throw

December 7, 2020 Tags: softening wool throw, taking care of wool, washing throws, wool blanket, wool blankets, Wool care, wool throw, wool throws No Comments

Do you have one particular wool throw that you love for its colours and pattern but that just feels too itchy to use? We at WoolMe produce sumptuously soft throws and blankets, but if you buy one elsewhere that isn’t pleasant on the skin, we’ve got the solution. Discover how to soften a wool throw and make it ultra-cosy and huggable.

how to care for wool throw

The softness of a wool throw will depends on the structure of the wool fibres. Different types of wool have varying sizes of fibres, measured in microns. The lower the micron value, the softer the wool. If you have a wool throw or blanket it’s probably partly due to having coarse fibres. But some chemicals used in wool processing can result in wool feeling uncomfortable to touch. To return it to its natural, pretreated softness, try this clever hack:

Learn this wool throw softening trick

Fill your bathroom tub with lukewarm water and add 1 tablespoon of a gentle, no-rinse wool detergent containing lanolin. This is a natural softener derived from sheep that creates the protective layer of waxy substance that is found on their wool fleeces. For an extra softness boost, add a nut-sized portion of leave-in hair conditioner to the water, and mix.
Gently swoosh the water around to combine the detergent and conditioner.
Place your wool throw in the tub and hold it under the water for a few seconds to ensure the fibres absorb the wash solution.
Leave the wool throw to soak for 15-20 minutes. Really thick wool may need to soak for up to half an hour.
Remove the throw from the tub, gently pressing out any water. Do not wring or pull the fabric. Lay it flat between two bedsheets or towels somewhere sheltered and warm to dry out. Avoid direct sunlight when drying any woollen garments.
Once your wool throw is dry it should be super-soft and snuggly. Perfect for curling up with on the sofa this Winter, or for adding an extra layer of comfy warmth to your bed. If you want even more softness, repeat the process.

how to soften a wool blanket

Knowing how to soften a wool throw is particularly useful if you have young children or sensitive skin. You can use the same technique on woolly jumpers or scarves too, just make sure you don’t pull the garment out of shape when wet.

Understanding how wool fibres work and how to care for wool products means you can get the best from your textiles. Not only will they feel lovely against your skin, they will stay strong and last longer, making them a sustainable choice for the modern home.

Find out more about looking after wool throws and blankets here.

Merino Wool Throws – How to Unshrink

November 1, 2020 Tags: how to unshrink a sweater, merino blanket, merino blankets, merino throw, merino throws, merino wool, merino wool blanket, merino wool blankets, merino wool sweaters, merino wool throw, merino wool throws, merino wool yarn, wool blanket, wool blankets, wool throw, wool throws 2 Comments

It’s the worst feeling isn’t it? You open the washing machine or dyer and realise your favourite wool sweater, cosy winter socks or beautiful merino wool throw has shrunk. But don’t despair. We can show you how to unshrink a sweater or wool throw and restore it to its former glory.

Shrinking a wool throw or a garment often happens when it is washed or tumble dried in unsuitably warm temperatures. It is still may be possible to restore the original size of your merino wool throw or garment. Depending on a range of factors, it is possible to increase your throw or sweater by as much as a size and a half using this process (which can also work for other wool knit objects).

So, what is this magic-sounding process? Follow these steps to unshrink a wool throw, and remember to be gentle with your wool throws, blankets and clothing in the future.

How to unshrink a sweater or wool throw

Fill a bath tub with lukewarm water – there should be enough water to cover the item you wish to unshrink.
Now a little trick: Take your hair conditioner and add a generous amount of it to the water. If you also want to freshen the wool throw, and some mild detergent. The secret is that the hair conditioner will relax and loosen the wool yarns. This will allow you to re-size the blanket or knit item without deteriorating its shape. Agitate the water well with your hands to dissolve and mix the detergent and hair conditioner.

unshrink merino wool throw

Submerge your merino wool throw or garment in the water and gently knead it for some time. Once you’ve worked the conditioner and detergent mixture into the fibers, drain the water from the bath tub.
Gently press the throw against the bottom and sides of the tub to remove the excess water, then take the item out from the tub.
Lay the throw flat on a large bath towel or linen throw (or any large piece of fabric) and place another piece of fabric on top. Press down and continue to squeeze water out of the throw until both the upper and lower pieces of fabric have absorbed most of the moisture. If necessary, repeat this with dry pieces of cloth or towels.

unshrink wool throw

Now the important part. Lay the wool throw on a flat soft surface (e.g. a rug or bed) and gently pull it back into the desired shape and size. Stretch it very gently in all directions, trying to make the edges straight and symmetrical. If you are unshrinking a wool sweater or cardigan, concentrate your efforts on the sleeves, bottom edges and neckline – or any areas you think have shrunk the most. Allow the item to lie flat for a few minutes, then repeat the stretching one or two more times before it dries completely.
To end the procedure, wash the throw in cold water by hand or using a gentle machine cycle on low temperatures to remove the leftovers of hair conditioner. Reshape it again and lie flat to dry before using.

With these simple steps you might just be able to unshrink your merino wool throw or lambswool blanket. To avoid this happening again, always read the manufacturer’s care instructions and use mild detergent. For tips on washing wool throws in washing machine here.

Mohair vs. Cashmere – Which One is Better for You?

October 17, 2020 Tags: cashmere, cashmere throw, mohair, mohair throw, What is cashmere, what is mohair, wool, wool throw, wool throws No Comments

With Autumn upon us and Winter approaching, our attention inevitably turns to finding new ways to keep ourselves warm. You’ve got the cosy socks and chunky knitwear, but on chilly evenings that’s not enough. One of the best ways to stay warm is a soft wool throw or blanket. With the huge variety of throws to choose from finding the right one for you and your home might feel a little overwhelming. But we are here to help.

One of the main considerations is to think about what type of wool to choose. Two of the most luxurious types – wool and mohair – make ideal throws and blankets. So, in this post we’re going to answer two questions: what is a mohair throw and what is a cashmere throw? And we’ll tell you some of the unique qualities and benefits of each.

Mohair throws: benefits at a glance

Mohair is produced from angora goats – not to be confused by the fabric we call angora, which is produced from the soft fur of angora rabbits.
Due to its softness and sheen, mohair feels lovely to touch and is considered to be a luxurious fibre. This makes it perfect for wool throws, as they are not only warm but also non-scratchy and comfortable.
Because of its unique structure, mohair is hypoallergenic which means that even people with wool allergies are likely not to be allergic to mohair. Warm, soft and pleasing to touch – no wonder mohair is one of the most beloved fabrics in the world for blankets and throws.

Cashmere throws: key features and qualities

Cashmere is another unique and luxe wool. Not prickly, deliciously soft and warm, cashmere is ideal for people with sensitive skins and for children.
A cashmere wool has superior insulating qualities yet isn’t bulky, which makes it perfect for any season. This natural fabric will keep you warm when it is cold and prevent overheating when temperatures rise.
Lightweight cashmere throws are easy to carry around as they fold up surprisingly small and weigh very little. Simply sling in your tote bag for a chilly evening dinner out, or pack for a weekend city break over the Winter holidays.

Read more about Cashmere: The Story of Luxury and why it’s such a sophisticated, sought-after fabric.

Whether you choose a mohair throw or a cashmere throw, both will keep you snuggly and cosy, and will feel luxurious against your skin. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to keep your throw looking its best.

6 Must-Have Wool Items for Spring

March 2, 2020 Tags: alpaca wool, merino wool, throws & blankets, wool bedding, wool for spring, wool throw No Comments

Spring might finally have arrived, but it’s not quite time to put away the warm woolly jumpers and extra wool blankets. The evenings still have a distinct chill, and in many places snow is forecast over the next few days. This transition between seasons often sees balmy days one week and a snap frost the next, so we’ve rounded up 6 must-have woollens to keep you cosy, but not overheated, until summer properly sets in.

1. A thin merino wool base layer

The key to Spring dressing is to wear lots of layers. You can easily take things off if the sun comes out, and you’ll stay warm if the temperature is still wintery. Merino wool makes a great choice as a base layer as it’s soft to touch and helps wick away moisture from your skin. Choose a good quality garment and care for it properly, and it will last for many years to come.

2. Some toasty wool socks

While some might be desperate to get out their sandals, we aren’t quite ready to give up our snug wool socks just yet. A luxurious pair of alpaca wool socks will keep your toes toasty at night, and are great to wear inside walking boots for Springtime hikes.

3. A cosy wool throw

There’s nothing like curling up on the sofa in front of the fire, cozied-up in a soft wool throw while the Spring storms do their thing outside. Choose something lightweight yet warm, and it will work right through Spring and even into Summer if you’re a keen camper or like to sit outside in the evenings.

4. A stylish wool beret

Berets are timelessly stylish, and perfect for this changeable weather. A pure wool beret will protect your hair from a Spring shower whilst also looking chic and adorable. Channel your inner French woman and pair your beret with a trench coat, so that no matter what the weather, you always look polished and together. We love this zingy yellow felted beret for a pop of Springtime colour.

5. A wear-with-anything wool scarf

Keep yourself warm and ever-elegant with a wool scarf this Spring. Whether you’re riding the daily commute or walking in the wild, a scarf is the perfect accessory to any outfit.

6.Wool bedding

As well as being hypoallergenic and anti-bacterial, wool also has temperature-regulating properties, making it ideal for bedding. A wool-filled pillow or duvet will keep you snug without being too hot as the seasons change.

5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Natural Bedding

January 24, 2020 Tags: choosing wool throws, improved sleep, natural bedding, Natural Fabrics, sustainable fibre, wool blankets, wool for skin No Comments

Modern life often makes a good night’s sleep seem impossible, with the intrusions of late-night emails and constant external noise. But there are steps you can take to ensure you get a better quality of sleep, and help improve your overall ed health with fildena – https://nizagara-online.net/fildena and wellbeing. And as the average person spends around one third of their lives in bed, it’s important that your sleeping environment is as healthy and nurturing as possible.

Here are five reasons why you should choose natural bedding as part of optimising your sleep:

Better sleep – Synthetic fabrics and padding release chemicals that can disrupt sleep and cause insomnia. Choosing linens, organic cotton and wool bedding ensures that you get deeper, more restorative sleep, without harmful pesticides or ingredients.
Fewer toxins – Not only does natural bedding help you sleep better, it also reduces the amount of toxins in your bedroom. If you’re trying to create a sanctuary-like space to relax in, you wouldn’t fill it with overpowering perfumes or chemicals, so why bring these in with your bedding? These chemicals, such as fire retardants, can trigger asthma and cause eye discomfort. But natural bedding is kind to the skin and non-toxic.
Keeps you more comfortable – Wool throws and mattress filling help regulate your body temperature, keeping your comfortable all night long. If you stay at optimum temperature you’re less likely to wake up during the night. Natural bedding can also help prevent excessive night sweating.
Good for the whole family – From young babies to the elderly, all can benefit from natural bedding. Linen and super soft wool feels lovely against the skin, and keeps you snug in colder weather.
More sustainable – Wool and linen bedding is more sustainable than synthetic bedding as it’s biodegradable and requires fewer resources to grow and process. These textiles are highly durable and long-wearing, which reduces the amount of fabric thrown away into landfill.

To read more on the environmental benefits of wool textiles go here, and to read about different types of wool try this or this.

Beautiful Wool Throws for Christmas: a Gift guide

November 22, 2019 Tags: alpaca throws, buying woollen throws, christmas gifts, christmas presents, wool blankets, wool in winter No Comments

With the festive season getting closer you might be starting to think about buying gifts and getting a head start with your Christmas shopping. As the weather turns chilly and everyone feels like hunkering down indoors, a wool throw or blanket makes the ideal present. So we’ve got a wool throw gift guide to help you choose the perfect one.

For the time-poor mother

Busy mums often find it hard to make time to relax. Give a hardworking mother a supersoft, irresistibly snug wool throw for Christmas and encourage her to slow down a bit. She’ll love getting cosy under this 100% wool blanket, crafted from pure, long-wearing wool and featuring a subtle, timeless tartan pattern. It’s available in a range of colours too, so you can find the perfect match for her home interior.

For the outdoorsy sister

If you’ve got an adventure-loving sister who likes nothing better than camping under the stars or hiking up in the mountains, this alpaca throw is a great choice. Soft to touch but durable enough to withstand being stuffed in a backpack for an outdoor trip, it’s crafted from a blend of warm wool and gentle alpaca. And it will last for years, making memories alongside her as she explores the great outdoors.

For your garden-loving dad

If your dad likes nothing better than getting his hands dirty pulling weeds and potting on seedlings, a wool throw might be just what he needs. Perfect for keeping warm in his shed or on a coffee break outside. It will also double as a picnic rug in summer, so he can prepare a feast of homegrown bounty to share. This one is in a beautiful mossy green – just right for a green-fingered garden fanatic.

For your best friend

What could be nicer than giving your best friend a gift she can wear for months each year? Something that keeps her warm and cosy, and makes her feel cherished. Something that reminds her of the support of her dear friends who know exactly what colours she like to wear and what suits her best. The answer: a luxurious wool scarf.

For the man in your life

A thoughtful gift is a great way to let someone know you love them. Treat the man in your life to a sumptuous, supersoft cashmere throw that you can cuddle up under together. Whether bingeing on your favourite box set or cosying up in bed, add another layer to your relationship.

For more Christmas gift ideas go here, and for more on why wool is a natural choice in winter go here.

And if you’d also like to send warmth to a stranger in need, you can get involved in a UNHCR initiative in collaboration with Kniterate. This British start-up are working alongside the charity and Twitter to generate funds and publicity by offering to weave 500 names into scarves that they will distribute to refugees in North Africa. These people face extreme winter weather and have inadequate housing and clothing. Find out more about knitting for refugees here.

Why Wool is Better For your Skin, as Well as the Planet

October 25, 2019 Tags: choosing wool throws, improved sleep, natural wool, soft wool, Wool care, wool for skin, wool throws No Comments

Many of us are becoming more aware of the horrifying amounts of plastic waste found in our seas and rivers. Some of the particles that find their way into the animal food chain are tiny fibres from polyester and other synthetic fabrics, released when we wash our clothes or bedlinen. Using only natural materials, like cotton, linen and wool in your home can help prevent releasing more plastic into the environment. And these fabrics can also benefit your skin. In this post we’ll be talking about why wool is better for your skin than synthetic fabrics.

Read on to discover why:

Wool is kinder to skin
Your skin will feel less sweaty when you wear wool
Wool blankets help regulate your body temperature, keeping skin comfy
Wool is beneficial for excema sufferers
The idea of wool being an alergen is false

Why wool is kinder to your skin

Recent research has explored how our skin reacts to wool compared with polyester. The study found that the patches of skin exposed to prolonged contact with wool were more hydrated and less inflamed than the areas covered with polyester. Meaning wool is a great choice if you tend to suffer redness and dryness, or if your skin is sensitive.

No more shiny, sweaty skin

Wool wicks away moisture from the skin and releases it back into the air, keeping your skin hydrated but not damp. Superfine wool base layers and wool scarves and hats will keep your skin moisturized but not sweaty or shiny.

Wool blankets regulate body temperature

Not only does wool let your skin breathe, it also traps and then releases heat, keeping your body at the optimal temperature. One UK study stated that as well as sleeping under woollen blankets we should also consider using wool duvets as an alternative to synthetic or feather and down fillings. Again, this is because wool has been proven to keep your body temperature steadier as you snooze, making for a better night’s sleep.

Excema sufferers can benefit from wool

Contrary to the perception some people have of wool being itchy, it can actually be beneficial for people suffering with skin conditions like excema. A study published in 2017 revealed that when people in the trial wore superfine merino wool next to their skin, their symptoms improved. Essaylamba.com researchers think this is connected to how wool displaces moisture from the skin that can result in overdrying, redness and soreness.

Wool is not an alergen

It has been claimed that wool can cause allergies, but researchers have established that this is a myth. Instead, they attributed any symptoms of itchiness or discomfort to the size of the fibres in a fabric rather than the fact that it was wool.

So, for comfortable, calm and happy skin, try wrapping yourself if a cozy wool throw this Fall, or snuggling under a soft wool blanket. Your skin will thank you for it. And you’ll be doing your bit to help the environment too.

Beautiful Wool Throws You’ll Love this Fall

September 20, 2019 Tags: autumn, fall colors, new collection, recycling, sustainable fibre, wool blankets, wool for fall, wool throws No Comments

We’re going to let you into a secret: we actually LOVE it when the weather gets cooler and the nights start drawing in. Summer is wonderful, but there’s something so homely and comforting about Fall, with the promise of open fires, hot chocolate, warm knits and hot-water bottles to toast our feet on at night. As the seasons turn from summer into autumn, we’ve created eight stunning new designs for our wool throw collection.

These earth-toned new throws reflect the changes we see in Nature: leaves turning to russets, damp mosses crawling over stones, bare brown branches revealed on windy days. In this appealing, muted palette each design boasts subtle patterns and weaves, bringing texture and interest to your home.

Crafted from pure wool, cotton blends and mixes of wool and recycled polyester, these throws make the perfect companion on a chilly Fall evening. Snug yet soft, colourful yet subtle, they work beautifully draped over linen bedlinen in muted tones or rich autumnal shades, or casually strewn across a sofa for extra evening comfort. And thanks to our commitment to sustainable production, the use of recycled fibres means you can treat yourself without worrying about waste.

Here’s our pick of our top four wool throws from the new collection, but as you’ll see, they are all gorgeous.

Lorenzo

Crafted from from 35% lambswool, 35% cotton and 30% recycled polyester this is a lightweight yet snug throw in a two-way colour scheme: natural on one side and in a choice of spa green, terracotta or choco on the other.

It would look amazing alongside a set of rustic linen cushions or draped over a set of linen bedlinen in rich greens or deep greys.

Donato

In a classic tartan plaid but in soft, understated colours, our Donato throw adds texture and pattern without overpowering a space. And it’s crafted from 100% pure wool, which means it will keep you and your loved ones cosy for years to come.

Pair it with a neutral linen duvet cover or use blue cushions to bring out the accents.

Paula

In exquisite silver, ivory and grey colorways the Paula throw adds a touch of class to any interior. In 100% pure wool, it’s an elegant blanket that’s perfect for curling up under, or wearing over your shoulders on a Fall evening outside.

These colors work with most interior color schemes, offering great versatility with a sophisticated finish.

Roberto

With a wide range of colorways, you can choose the perfect throw for your needs. Bright and cheerful? Yes! Earthy and subtle? Yes too! Tranquil and calm? Yes again! And thanks to the 100% pure wool you’ll have years of warmth and softness.

Browse our range of sumptuous wool throws and blankets for your essential hyggeligt home addition this season. Stock up on candles, good books, lovely teas and some winter socks and you’ll have a cozy, snug Fall.

What’s the Difference Between Types of Wool?

March 16, 2019 Tags: alpaca wool, angora wool, cashmere, cashmere blankets, choosing wool throws, different types of wool, merino wool blankets, mohair throw, wool throws & blankets No Comments

Don’t know your merino from your mohair? Don’t worry, in this handy guide we’ll explain the differences between the most often-used types of wool. So you can make the right choice, whether you’re looking for a beautiful cosy blanket or a sumptuous sweater.

Mohair

Harvested from the angora goat, mohair is silky, soft and highly insulating. Often used for baby clothes, suits and blankets, mohair is resilient and dirt-resistant. Garments made from mohair have a lovely drape and the fibres take dyes particularly effectively, as well as having gorgeous natural colours.

Merino

Merino sheep are generally found in Australia and New Zealand. The fibres of this wool have small scales, making it a lightweight, fine wool that is perfect for base layers and blankets thanks to its great temperature-regulating properties.

Cashmere

One of the most luxurious types of wool, cashmere comes from the supersoft under layer of wool from the Kashmir goat in India, Tibet, China and Mongolia. Thanks to its softness and warmth cashmere is beloved for its silky feel in scarves, clothing and cashmere throws. Due to its rarity it tends to be more expensive and is less durable than other types of wool.

Lambswool

Taken from the first shearing of a lamb when they are six or seven months old, lambswool is very smooth and soft. It’s also resilient, hypoallergenic and perfect for garments that are worn next to the skin, or for bedding. It can only be harvested once, which makes it more expensive that ordinary sheep wool.

Alpaca

Once originally found in South America, fields of these fluffy, camel-like creatures are now commonplace around the world. Alpaca wool is silky and supersoft, with great insulating properties. It’s often used in blankets, knits and sportswear, and has a lovely range of natural colours. As well as being comfortable to the touch, alpaca wool is strong and pill-resistant.

Angora

Harvested from the angora rabbit, this wool is not to be confused with mohair, that comes from the angora goat. Due to its hollow fibres, angora is very lightweight and fine, and is often blended with other types of wool to make it less fragile. It has great temperature-regulating properties, is warm and cosy, and is resistant to odours.

Wool

If a garment’s label lists it as composed of ‘wool’ it refers to ordinary sheep wool. The scales on this wool are larger, which can make it feel itchy, but it is cheaper and very warm, making it great for larger pieces like wool throws.

To read more about the benefits of wool go here and here.

And Breathe! Why Wool is the Natural Choice

January 17, 2019 Tags: 100% wool, natural wool, temperature regulation, thermal properties of wool, wool base layers, wool blanket, wool insulation, wool throw No Comments

Do you ever find that sometimes the simplest solution is right there, under your nose? While scientists and researchers strive to develop ever-more innovative new fabrics and materials for fashion and interiors, we think the best and most natural choice is one that we’ve used and enjoyed for thousands of years: wool.

Not only is wool a more sustainable, biodegradable fabric than synthetics, it also works in harmony with your body. So you can stay comfortable, warm and cosy without overheating. The main reason that we don’t get unpleasantly hot (unlike when wearing some manmade fibres) with wool is that it allows your skin to breathe. In fact, it’s almost as if wool itself is breathing. Here’s how it works:

Wool’s natural absorbency

Wool has a very high absorbency, which means it wicks away sweat and moisture from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. This moisture is slowly released back into the air, meaning you avoid the chills and shivers that can occur after exercise when you start to cool off. As the body’s humidity reduces, the process of absorbing moisture creates warmth within the wool – it has been claimed that 1kg of dry wool can generate the same amount of heat as an electric blanket heated for eight hours!

By releasing warm moisture into the air, rather than allowing it to stick to the skin, wool helps regulate your body temperature. As moisture is released and heat is generated, the ensuing evaporation cools the body.

Insulating properties

Because the fibres in wool are crimped, they trap air in tiny pockets. This creates an insulating layer, which is why wool is not only great for clothing and blankets, but also makes excellent wall insulation in the home. This is why wool is often found in jackets or used to create fine undergarments for people in extreme or changeable temperatures, like mountain climbing.

Odour resistance

Another amazing quality of woollen fabrics, according to azithromycin.net is the anti-microbial function. Thanks to wool’s ability to release moisture back into the air more quickly and effectively than many synthetics, sweat doesn’t stick around long enough for bacteria to form. Which means no unpleasant odours, just a fresh feeling. Whether you’re skiing at altitude or riding the rush hour commute, choosing wool means you’ll stay just the right temperature.

So, whether you’re looking for a lightweight base layer, a wool scarf for winter, or want to find a cosy wool throw to hunker down on chilly evenings, wool is the natural choice. From finest luxurious cashmere to sumptuously soft merino wool, there’s a good reason why humans have loved and used wool throughout history. It’s not only temperature-regulating, it’s also easy to care for. Simply follow the care instructions on each garment, dry flat and out of sunlight, and gently remove any pilling. If looked after properly your woollen blankets and clothing will last for years, keeping you cosy and comfortable whatever the weather – and life – may throw at you.

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