Cotswold Wool Yarn

Yarn of rare beauty from a rare breed of sheep.

Renowned for centuries in Britain for its beauty and utility, Cotswold wool production funded the construction of the great cathedrals and churches, and literally helped England become the country it is today. Cotswold sheep were introduced to the US in the mid-1800s.  Cotswold wool has long been referred to as "the golden fleece" both for its creamy color and its great value. Usurped from favor in the early 1900's by the fine wools and other causes, the Cotswold breed dwindled to near extinction. Resurrected at the very brink, the Cotswold today is enjoying a comeback, but is still considered rare by The Livestock Conservancy - meaning that there are fewer than 1,000 annual North American registrations, and estimated fewer than 5,000 purebred animals existing worldwide. Borrowing from the "golden fleece" legend, we are pleased to offer "Golden Sheep Yarn" © - 100% pure Cotswold wool yarn exclusively from our flock.

Fleece from our Cotswold sheep flock is carefully skirted and sorted by hand to ensure that only sound, clean, long-stapled fiber goes into our yarn. The natural white yarn is not snow white, but rather a warm cream or ivory color. My brother calls it "candlelight" and I think that's the perfect description of the color.  Our Cotswold yarn is milled by Stonehedge Farm and Fiber Mill whose expertise with long-stapled fiber really highlights the natural luster of this lovely long wool. Sometimes called Poor Man's Mohair, Cotswold has arguably the most shine of all wools, and takes dye wonderfully. It is a strong, supple yarn with a feeling of substance to it, and will drape nicely.

Cotswold yarn is:

• High luster with a shine that seems to light the yarn from within
• Strong and can handle wear and abrasion without pilling
• Smooth, with very little elasticity
• Substantial yet supple, providing good drape to finished goods

Our yarn is currently created in two weights - a 3-ply bulky and a 3-ply sportweight. There are also a few skeins listed of prior, different weights.