Lambswool

Lambswool is quite literally wool from lambs aged from about seven months or younger.  The wool generally comes from the lamb’s first shearing. The young sheep provide soft, extremely downy, fine wool. While sheep’s wool is notorious for its potential itchiness, lambswool is generally softer and less likely to cause skin irritation. Lambswool is a multi-purpose natural fiber that is a favorite among knitters and spinners. Lambswool is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, therefore it is good for people who have allergies. 

Like all wool, lambswool is breathable, while also being a natural insulator. Because of wool’s natural crimp, the fibers don’t lay flat on each other, creating small air pockets that can trap and release heat, allowing the wool to maintain the wearer’s body temperature. It is also moisture wicking.  Wool can absorb one-third of its weight without becoming wet, and its wicking properties come from the outer layer of the wool fiber, which somewhat resembles shingles on a roof with the strands butting up against each other. 

We suggest you follow the care instructions specific to the yarn you are using and when in doubt hand wash in tepid water using a mild soap. Do not agitate or twist. Lay garment flat on a towel and roll it up like a sleeping bag.  You can let that sit from 15 minutes to the following day to ensure the towel wicks out as much moisture as possible.  Then unroll, place on a clean, dry towel, shape and dry flat.