Wool

Wool is one of the finest yarns for making clothing, especially from merino sheep. The length of merino fibre can be anything from 10-20cm and between 10 micron and 25 microns thick. When spun it is strong because of the twisting of the fibre. Together it has plenty of ‘hold’ because of this length (a staple of cotton, for instance, is only about 5-7cm long). It is absorbent and can hold about a third of its weight in moisture. Ideal for dying and taking colour. The moisture retention can add to its ability to insulate against damp and cold or alternatively keep the body cool in hot climates.

What is critical in the way the wool fabric is created is the way it is woven. A weave pattern can be totally invisible or highlighted with texture or colour. There are hundreds of ways a wool fabric can be woven depending on the types of loom and skill of the weaver and different methods of finishing. However, for the impeccable bespoke suit, there are about fifteen favourites.