What is Merino × Romney fleece?
It comes from sheep bred by crossing Merino and Romney. The resulting fleece combines characteristics from both breeds, including a finer handle and a longer staple than pure Merino.
British Merino × Romney Raw Fleece – 500g
British Merino × Romney raw fleece combining the softness and fineness associated with Merino with a longer, more manageable staple influenced by Romney. Approximately 22–25 microns and supplied in a 500g pack for spinning, felting and fibre crafts. Unwashed and requiring preparation before use.
Options Available
Option: 500g British Merino × Romney Raw Fleece
£10.00
Selected Option:
500g British Merino × Romney Raw Fleece
Description
Enjoy the complementary qualities of two celebrated wool breeds with our British Merino × Romney raw fleece.
Crossing Merino with Romney produces a versatile fleece that combines a fine, soft handle with a longer staple than pure Merino. This can make the fibre more manageable to prepare and spin while retaining a beautifully soft finished character.
The fibre measures approximately 22–25 microns. This is a guide rather than an absolute specification, as fineness naturally varies between sheep and across different sections of an individual fleece.
Product details:
- British Merino × Romney fleece
- Approximately 22–25 microns
- Longer staple than pure Merino
- Soft and naturally crimped
- Supplied in a 500g pack
- Completely raw and unwashed
- Undyed and unbleached
- Suitable for spinning after preparation
- Suitable for wet and needle felting
- Can be hand dyed
- Before use, the fleece must be sorted, scoured and then carded or combed according to your preferred preparation method.
As a genuine raw agricultural fibre, the fleece naturally contains lanolin and may include dust, vegetable matter, stained tips, occasional second cuts and other traces of farm life.
The listed 500g is the raw weight. The clean, usable fibre will weigh less after lanolin, moisture, dirt and unsuitable sections have been removed.
Natural shades may range from white to deep cream and can vary between batches and different sections of fleece. These subtle variations can add attractive depth to handspun yarn.
Merino × Romney fleece is a rewarding choice for spinners seeking something finer than typical Romney wool but with more staple length than pure Merino.
£10.00
Selected Option:
500g British Merino × Romney Raw Fleece
What does 22–25 microns mean?
Microns measure the approximate diameter of individual wool fibres. The 22–25 micron range indicates a relatively fine fleece, although the measurement naturally varies between sheep and across different sections of wool.
How does it compare with pure Merino fleece?
Merino × Romney generally has a longer staple than pure Merino and may therefore be easier to prepare and control during spinning. Pure Merino is typically finer but can be shorter stapled and more technically demanding.
How does it compare with pure Romney fleece?
Merino × Romney is generally finer and softer than typical pure Romney fleece, while the Romney influence contributes additional staple length and structure.
What preparation is required before using the British Merino × Romney raw fleece?
Before using the British Merino × Romney raw fleece, it must be sorted, scoured, and then carded or combed according to your preferred preparation method. This cleaning process removes dirt, lanolin, and any unsuitable sections.
Can the British Merino × Romney fleece be dyed, and if so, how?
Yes, the British Merino × Romney fleece can be hand dyed. It is recommended to use appropriate dyeing techniques suitable for animal fibers to achieve the desired colours.
What is the significance of the micron measurement in this fleece?
The micron measurement, which ranges from approximately 22–25 microns for this fleece, indicates the fineness of the wool. A lower micron number corresponds to softer and finer fibre, making it suitable for a variety of spinning and felting projects.
How does this fleece compare to pure Merino or pure Romney in terms of handle and usability?
This fleece combines the softness and fine handle of Merino with the longer staple length of Romney. This makes it easier to prepare and spin compared to pure Merino while retaining a soft finished character, making it versatile for various fibre crafts.
What are some recommended uses for the British Merino × Romney fleece?
The British Merino × Romney fleece is suitable for spinning, wet felting, and needle felting. Its versatile properties make it ideal for creating handspun yarns, felted items, and other fibre art projects.
Is the British Merino × Romney raw fleece suitable for beginners in spinning or felting?
Yes, the British Merino × Romney raw fleece is suitable for beginners. Its longer staple length and manageable preparation characteristics make it easier for those new to spinning and felting.
What should I do if I notice vegetable matter or debris in the raw fleece?
It is normal for raw fleece to contain some vegetable matter and debris. Before use, it is advisable to carefully sort through the fleece to remove any visible debris during the preparation process.
Can this raw fleece be blended with other fibers?
Yes, this raw fleece can be blended with other fibers to achieve unique textures and appearances in your finished products. It combines well with other wools and natural fibers.
What is the best way to store the raw fleece before use?
The raw fleece should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It can be kept in a breathable container or bags to allow for airflow while protecting it from dust and pests.
How can I determine the colour variations of the raw fleece before purchase?
The colour of the raw fleece can vary between batches and sections. While natural shades range from white to deep cream, you may check product images or consult with customer service for more specific colour details.