Raw Wool Processing Tips

Hacks for washing and processing wool for spinning

Check out this great tip from one of my fiber arts friends, Thanks Molly for sharing with us!

In this blog post, we will discuss some helpful tips for processing raw wool. Processing wool is a vital step in turning this natural fiber into yarn or other textile products. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced wool enthusiast, these tips will guide you through the process:

1. Sorting and Cleaning the Wool

Start by sorting the raw wool based on its quality and color. Remove any debris, twigs, or second cuts, which are shorter fibers.
Gently hand-pick or use a wool picker to remove any lingering dirt or vegetable matter.
To remove grease and lanolin, wash the wool using a mild wool wash or detergent. Be careful not to agitate or twist the wool vigorously to avoid felting.

2. Preparing a Spinning or Felting Station

Set up a dedicated workspace for your processing needs. This might include a spinning wheel, spindle, or felting tools.
Organize your tools and materials to keep them easily accessible during the processing.

3. Carding the Wool

Use hand carders or a drum carder to align the wool fibers and remove any remaining tangles or debris.
Card the wool multiple times to achieve a consistent and smooth batt of fiber ready for spinning or felting.
For felting, consider using a blending board to mix different colored wool fibers and create unique color combinations.

4. Spinning Techniques

If you choose to spin the wool, learn different spinning techniques, such as worsted or woolen spinning, to create different yarn characteristics.
Experiment with different drafting methods and fiber preparations to achieve the desired texture and thickness in your yarn.

5. Felting Tips

If felting is your goal, consider wet felting or needle felting techniques.
Wet felting involves soaking wool fibers in hot soapy water, agitating them, and shaping them into a desired form.
Needle felting involves using special barbed needles to repeatedly punch the wool roving or batting and create desired shapes or textures.

6. Drying and Storing

After processing, allow the wool to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Store the processed wool in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to protect it from moths and other insects.

By following these tips, you will be able to transform raw wool into beautiful yarn or felting projects. Remember to experiment, have fun, and enjoy the process of working with this versatile natural fiber. Happy processing!