Submitted by: Pat Munro

It seems the fashion world and celebrities alike are agog about this superfine wool. It has even been seen on catwalks this year in Paris. Jagger Spun superfine Merino wool is the top of the line wool yarn used for fine, top grade projects. Jagger Spun is unsurpassed in textural and color consistencies. It is 100% Australian Merino wool in a 2/18 lace weight. Spun says that it is spun from Merino that has a Bradford count in the sixties and is graded at 19.5 microns this is why is a superfine grade of wool. The Merino sheep is specially bred and raised in a sheltered habitat to protect its fiber from the elements. This results in fiber which is softer, yet stronger than cashmere. It is extremely rare. For example, every year enough fleece is shorn for only a few thousand shawls. This may seem like a lot, but with the world population as it is, it is a very small drop in the bucket.

It is a very soft wool, traditionally used in high quality garments, and is preferable with people with sensitive skin. For knitters, it is suggested to multistrand the yarn for larger gauges. Preferably, knitters use three strands for sport weight and five strands for worsted weight. Weavers love this yarn for making tartans, because it never itches. It can be mixed with Zephyr wool/silk brands and Genstone silk to add glisten to any project. It is dyed with the finest dyes in the world. Some excess dyes may be present in the yarn so it is best to skein it and rinse under cold water until the water is clear. Dark purples especially have colorfast problems when exposed to sun. It is best to avoid bright sunlight in this color. For washing it is best to hand wash in lukewarm water, no bleach. Once washed the loft of the yarn expands, creating a fuller, feel and look to any project. It can be dry cleaned, and a cool iron can be used under a pressing cloth, but never ironed wet. Lay flat to dry, never tumble dry. For storage, even thought this yarn is moth-proof, it is best to store in a clear, clean plastic container for long term storage.

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The yarn is so soft and delicate, it feels like cashmere. It is a luxury yarn with excellent drape and luster. The yarn has a very low occurrence of knotting, offering knitters a great amount of versatility in adding more piles. The creative opportunities with this yarn are unsurpassed. It can be used for knitting, machine knitting, tambour embroidery, beaded knits, weaving, crocheting, lace work and natural dying. Due to its light and soft attributes, it adds warmth without the bulk. It is also a very clean wool, without chaff. It is sold and supplied in 1 pound cones which have approximately 5,040 yards per pound for a 2/18 count. For the yarn count, the first number is the ply or number of strands, and the second number is the fraction of the yarn thickness. The higher the second number, the thinner the strand.

Merino wool can be used for thermal underwear, wool suits, socks, blankets, quilts, and footwear. Because Jagger Spun Merino wool is recognized as the worlds leading natural fibers, it has been showing up on catwalks and A-list celebrities around the world.

About the Author: The author writes for

Jane Stafford Textiles Weaving Studio

selling

Yarn, Fiber and Weaving supplies

. A renowned weaving instructor and textile artist Jane contributed in the development of the

Jane Loom, by Louet Looms

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