When it comes to fabrics used in the interior of a home, the process of narrowing down what will work, or even look the best, can be daunting. There are however, some fabrics that stand above the rest. Wool is one of them. Here we’ll look at the beauty of wool and what makes it such a wonderful choice for an interior fabric.
A Thing of Natural Beauty
Wool, a natural fiber obtained from animals such as sheep, goats, musk
When it comes to fabrics used in the interior of a home, the process of narrowing down what will work, or even look the best, can be daunting. There are, however, some fabrics that stand above the rest. Wool is one of them. Here we’ll look at the beauty of wool and what makes it such a wonderful choice for an interior fabric.
A Thing of Natural Beauty
Wool, a natural fiber obtained from animals such as sheep, goats, muskoxen, rabbits, and camelids, offers amazing physical properties that make it ideal for a home’s interior. Unfortunately, the wool growing has declined over the years largely in part to the availability of synthetic fibers. Sadly, the cost of shearing sheep is more than what the farmer would get for the fleece. Still, wool is out there and definitely a fiber worth incorporating into your home. To understand why, however, you have to know more about the amazing properties wool has to offer. Let’s evaluate these properties in more detail.
Wool is extremely durable
Wool is a fabric that can stand the test of time and offer a lifetime of quality, making it a very good investment. In fact, a single wool fiber can be bent 20,000 times without breaking and still have the ability to recover, returning to its natural shape! This impressive durability can mainly be attributed to its unique elasticity, which allows it to recover much more easily than other fabrics. Its inability to crush or wrinkle from daily wear and tear will keep it looking its best much longer.
Wool is highly flame resistant
Ever wondered why it’s recommended to smother a small fire with a wool blanket? It’s because the wool fiber is naturally flame-retardant. Without any flame-resistant treatments, wool is extremely difficult to ignite. If it does ignite, the spread of flame and heat release is minimal. Additionally, it doesn’t melt and has amazing self-extinguishing qualities.Â
Wool provides comfort in both warm and cool temperatures
Wool regulates temperature and humidity due to the microclimate it creates. Because of the natural crimp, the fibers trap air, allowing the wool to provide warmth in cool temperatures. On the flip side, wool is very absorbent, keeping moisture away from the body. This is what allows your body to stay cool during warm conditions. This benefit makes wool a great choice for bedding and upholstery.
Wool is anti-static
Static attracts lint, dust, and dirt. Being that wool has anti-static qualities, it tends to stay cleaner much longer than other fabrics. The overlapping scales are woven within the fiber also help prevent dirt and dust from seeping in deep, making it easier to maintain.
Wool is hypoallergenic
With its naturally hypoallergenic qualities, you can’t go wrong with wool— the perfect option for anyone who needs anti-allergy bedding. Although there are some people who have a rare allergy to lanolin, the oil found in wool, that’s not usually what triggers allergies. Oftentimes, it’s the harsh and toxic chemicals that go into the production of some wool products that are the real culprit. To avoid this, look for companies that produce wool products that are completely free of harsh chemicals or bleaches.
Wool doesn’t wrinkle like other fabrics
As mentioned earlier, wool fibers can bend an insane amount of times before breaking, making them extremely durable. It’s this same quality that makes it naturally resist wrinkles. The natural crimp it has helps keep its shape, essentially allowing it to bounce back to its original form even after being stretched.Â
Wool is sustainable and fully degradableÂ
Wool is a natural fiber whose purity makes it one of the highest-ranking sustainable fibers around. With a correct and gentle treatment process, wool can have an incredibly long lifespan.Â
Wool doesn’t require much maintenanceÂ
In general, wool is naturally stain-resistant and picks up less dirt and dust. Because of this, you don’t have to clean your wool fabrics as much. While there are still wool products that require handwashing, most products can now be machine-washed and tumble-dried.Â
The Drawbacks of WoolÂ
Just like anything else, there are some drawbacks to wool fabric. With that said, the benefits definitely outweigh them, still making wool one of the best possible choices for your home’s interior. Some limitations about wool you should keep in mind are:
- Moths are attracted to it
- It can shrink in heat therefore it should never go into the dryer
- It can fade if exposed to the excessive sun for long periods of time
- Harsh detergents can cause it to lose its soft luster
How to Use Wool In Your Home
Wool is not only beautiful, but it’s also versatile, making it easy to use in several different ways. Here are some ways you can use wool around your home:Â
- Blankets
- Rugs
- Bathroom accessories
- Throws (possibly sheepskin for that extra texture and warmth)
- Felted accessories
- UpholsteryÂ
- BeddingÂ
When the time comes to add wool to your home decor, be sure to stop by our showroom or browse online to see what beautiful products we have to offer. In addition to our great deals on discount designer fabrics, we have a wide variety of accessories that will look wonderful in your home.
oxen, rabbits and camelids, offers amazing physical properties that make it ideal for a home’s interior. Let’s evaluate these properties in more detail…
Wool is extremely durable
Wool is a fabric that can stand the test of time and offer a lifetime of quality, making it a very good investment. This impressive durability can mainly be attributed to its unique elasticity, which allows it to recover much more easily than other fabrics. It’s inability to crush or wrinkle from daily wear and tear will keep it looking its best much longer.
Wool is highly flame resistant
Ever wondered why it’s recommended to smother a small fire with a wool blanket? It’s because the wool fiber is naturally flame-retardant. Without any flame resistant treatments, wool is extremely difficult to ignite. If it does ignite however, the spread of flame and heat release is minimal.
Wool provides comfort in both warm and cool temperatures
Wool regulates temperature and humidity due to the microclimate it creates. Because of the natural crimp, the fibers trap air, allowing wool to provide warmth in cool temperatures. On the flip side, wool is very absorbent, keeping moisture away from the body. This is what allows your body to stay cool during warm conditions. This benefit makes wool a great choice for bedding and upholstery.
Wool is anti-static
Static attracts lint, dust and dirt. Being that wool has anti-static qualities, it tends to stay cleaner much longer than other fabrics. The overlapping scales woven within the fiber also help prevent dirt and dust from seeping in deep, making it easier to maintain.
The Drawbacks
Just like anything else, there are some drawbacks. With that said, the benefits definitely outweigh them, still making wool an ideal choice for your home’s interior. Some limitations about wool you should keep in mind are:
- Moths are attracted to it
- It can shrink in heat therefore it should never go in the dryer
- It can fade if exposed to excessive sun for long periods of time
- Harsh detergents can cause it to lose its soft luster
When you are looking for fabrics near you in Plano, TX, stop by our Cutting Corners location in Dallas, Tx for great deals on discount designer fabrics. We have something for every home interior project from gorgeous drapery fabrics, colorful outdoor fabrics, and luxurious Dupioni Silks.
