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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.

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.

Your Ultimate Wool Throw Gift Guide

November 13, 2018 Tags: alpaca throws, christmas gifts, merino blankets, mohair throw, wool blanket, Wool for Christmas, wool guide, Wool Throw Guide, wool throws No Comments

If you’re trying to get ahead of the game and make a start with your Christmas gift buying, here’s our ultimate gift guide. We can help you choose the perfect wool throw for your family members or friends, and give them a gift they can enjoy for years to come. In fact, we can’t think of many better things to give at Christmas than a soft, snuggly blanket crafted from the finest materials that will keep your loved ones feeling cozy and pampered. A new wool throw will become part of their own Christmas and wintertime traditions, from curling up under it to watch a holiday movie, to tucking in an excited child who has just hung up their stocking for Santa.

So, here’s what we’re putting on our present-buying list this year:

For Mum

Busy mothers can find they’ve barely stopped all day. From the pressures of work to the demands of small children, this time of year can be even more exhausting than normal. Even mums of grown-up kids can still find it hard to properly unwind. Give a mother in your life the gift of a peaceful, precious, moment of relaxation with this supersoft throw. Encourage them to take time out for themselves with a book or a podcast, tucked up and cared for, instead of doing all the caring.

For a mother who loves being in Nature a wool throw is a great present. They can lie back on it and watch the clouds or spread out a picnic feast for friends in the park. It will keep them warm on chilly evenings round a campfire, and can provide an impromptu sleeping blanket for a slumbering babe.

For Dad

If there’s a dad in your life who loves the outdoors, whether fishing, hiking or camping wild, give him one of these warm, durable alpaca blankets as a companion on his adventures. For dads who like to hunker down with their kids reading stories, a wool throw will not only keep them all snug, it can double as a fort if attention wanders.

For the traveller

For the travel-loving, active person in your life a trusty wool throw can be packed up in their bag of essential kit and will double as a picnic blanket, shawl and extra bedding if they’re sleeping out under the stars. Whether bundled into a backpack or rolled up in a tote, every adventurer needs this versatile piece of kit. And not only are our throws practical and hard-wearing, they’re great-looking too.

For the interior design fan

If you need a gift for an interiors fan who loves browsing Pinterest for ideas on home improvements or flicking through the latest Elle Deco, then look no further. A beautiful mohair wool throw can instantly refresh the look of a bedroom or sitting room. Draped, tucked or folded, this is the ideal gift for someone with their finger on the design pulse.

For the lover of fine things

For someone who loves the finer things in life, a cashmere throw is the ultimate luxurious gift. They will love the exquisite softness and quality of our cashmere throw, and you will love the price. This is a keepsake gift to treasure for now and well into the future. A truly special present.

For someone who is all of these

Really, most of us love to surround ourselves with beautiful things made from the best, natural, materials. We want to feel loved, safe and sheltered, as well as to protect those around us. Sometimes we feel like hibernating and other times we crave adventure. A Woolme wool throw can do all of this, whatever mood we’re in and whatever life brings us in that moment. Which makes it pretty much the perfect gift for everybody, no?

5 Reasons Why Wool is Not Just for Winter

April 13, 2018 Tags: benefits of merino wool, cashmere throws, home decorating with wool, wool base layers, wool for spring, wool throws, wool throws for picnic, wool yarn 1 Comment

Despite the seemingly endless winter there are definite signs that Spring is afoot: tulips and primroses dotting gardens and lanes, longer evenings, ducklings paddling along behind their mamas, loud and joyful birdsong, and when the sun does shine there’s a power to it that just isn’t there in winter. It might seem like the time to be packing away your woollen blankets and clothes, storing them carefully for the Autumn. But don’t rush for the suitcases and packing bags just yet. Wool is not just for Winter.

Here are 5 reasons why we love wool in the Spring and Summer too:

1.Chilly evenings

Even late into Spring the evenings can still have a chill in the air. Once the central heating goes off and you’ve burned all your firewood it can be lovely to reach for a cosy woollen blanket as you read in bed, or curl up on the sofa in front of a movie. A natural wool throw will help you make this transition from fully heated house to flinging open the windows, keeping you warm when it’s time to hunker down.

2.Outdoor adventures

spring wool throw

As Spring gets underway we start planning camping trips and picnic outings. A wool throw is never far from hand on these outdoor adventures, whether used as an extra layer over a sleeping bag, or as the base for a casual picnic with friends. And woolly socks are pretty much essentials if you are sleeping outdoors as they will keep your feet toasty all night long, which means you will sleep better. Wool helps to regulate body temperature and wicks moisture away from your body, meaning you won’t wake up sweaty and overheated.

3.Stylish interiors

A less-than pristine sofa or chair can be given a new lease of life with the simple addition of a wool throw. Choose contrasting colours to make a statement, or opt for something neutral that adds a note of muted texture and tone. If you don’t want the expense of re-upholstering a chair, a throw is a great way to get the look you want at a fraction of the price. And if you change your mind in the future you can simply use the throw elsewhere and replace it with something new.

4.Sporty layers

merino wool base layer

Merino wool is much-loved by sportspeople, from runners to cyclists, hikers to climbers. Thanks to its superfine yarn it can be spun into lightweight layers that are ideal for wearing as a base layer, providing some extra warmth but with no extra bulk. Wool is anti-bacterial and moisture-wicking so you will feel fresh and dry, and if there is a sudden downpour it will keep the rain off you while you dash for shelter.

5.Getting crafty

Now might be the time to take up a new craft or hobby, like knitting or crochet. These crafts are easy to learn and can be very relaxing. You can take your project with you wherever you go too, from the bus ride to work to sitting in a children’s play area watching your kids. Natural wool is a great basis for simple garments like scarves and cushion covers, and once you’ve honed your skills you can use the huge range of different woollen yarns to create beautiful handmade items that you – and others- will really treasure.

So, whilst it might be a good time to retire your chunky woollen sweaters, don’t rush to pack away the wool. There’s plenty more use for those wool throws, cosy socks, fine base layers and balls of yarn yet.

From Lambs to Lagom: Why wool is everywhere this Spring

March 16, 2018 Tags: benefits of merino wool, benefits of wool, cashmere blanket, lambswool, merino wool, wool for all seasons, wool for spring, wool throws No Comments

There are few more happy-making things than seeing new lambs frolicking in their fields. As Spring approaches we take a celebratory look at why wool is everywhere this season, from lambs to lagom.

Lambswool

Fluffy white lambs are one of the traditional Eastertime symbols, adorning cards and merchandising everywhere. We love their carefree tumbling and their gangly legs, and they represent rebirth and renewal as the seasons turn. While these new additions won’t be shorn in their first year, their fleeces will be perfect for shearing next year. This will produce the supersoft lambswool so beloved by fashion and home textile makers. The older sheep will be shorn shortly after the lambing season is over, ready for the warmer weather. This wool will then be sorted, washed, picked and combed in preparation for dyeing. The lifecycle of your wool throw or cosy sweater begins with these little bundles of fun gambolling around the countryside.

Lagom

Replacing ‘hygge‘ as the new Scandi-inspired trend, ‘lagom’ offers more than a moment of comfort or happiness. The concept of lagom comes from Sweden and is a longer-term idea of finding balance and peace by just having enough. Translated it means ‘just the right amount’. To live with lagom means to avoid excessive consumerism, to create a balance between work and personal time, to be moderate and frugal. It has inspired people to live more sustainably, choosing clothes and homewares that have a reduced impact on the environment. Like natural wool. Living more sustainably means buying good quality items that will have a long lifetime, things that are produced with are as free from harm as possible. Wool is a durable, long-lasting material, and means that those investment pieces, like wool picnic blankets or baby throws, will keep on looking beautiful for years. There’s a simplicity to wool that chimes perfectly with the idea of lagom. Just right.

Lightweight wool

As the weather warms up you may not need your really chunky knitwear but there is still a place for woollies. Spring can bring sudden changes in temperature, with snowfall and frosts still a possibility. The answer here is to wear layers and to include lightweight wool garments made from merino wool. This is less bulky whilst retaining all the benefits of wool: temperature regulation, moisture wicking, durable, dirt-repellant. You can get highly sophisticated sportswear ‘skins’ made from merino wool to wear as a base layer, or opt for a simple transitional piece like a merino sweater paired with a linen shirt or bigger cardigan if it’s chilly.

Lazy evenings

Despite the fact that the evenings are lighter for longer, there is still something delicious about curling up indoors under a warm, soft wool throw after a long day. Whether you love to read or catch up with the latest Instagram stories, creating a moment of stillness and cosiness in the evening is great for your wellbeing. It’s not quite warm enough to sit outside in the evenings where we are, but it won’t be long. And you can be sure we’ll have blankets, hot drinks and food at the ready.

Tips on Staying Warm on the Cold Days

February 27, 2018 Tags: staying warm, wool throws No Comments

Let’s face it – noone except polar bears loves cold weather, especially if you are not ready for it. There is nothing worse than waking up on a snowy day and realizing you have nothing go wear and your shoe rack only includes sandals. With the Beast From The East making us all feel like we are in the middle of Siberia it is hard to think about anything else than the snow and cold awaiting us outside. We have prepared some tips for you to keep yourself warm.

Why Wool is Good for You

February 1, 2018 Tags: throws & blankets, throws&blankets, wool, wool and yarn, wool blanket, wool blankets, Wool care, wool shop, wool shops, wool throw, wool throws, wool throws & blankets, wool yarn, wool yarns, woolme No Comments

Wool is definitely one of the most popular natural materials known but not many of us know the actual benefits of using wool products daily. If you have not known a lot about wool get ready for some knowledge – we are about to introduce you to wool, the durable natural material.

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