Wool garments and textiles are naturally odour resistant due to the fibre’s unique properties. Wool fibres can absorb large quantities of water vapour – twice as much as cotton and thirty times as much as polyester – helping to keep the skin drier and prevent the build-up of sweat, bacteria and unpleasant smells. The unique chemical structure of wool also enables it to absorb and lock away odours which may develop, and only release them on washing.

Wool is a natural and renewable resource. Sheep grow wool naturally and continuously – it is part of their biological anatomy. When 100% Merino wool fabrics are disposed of, they will naturally decompose in soil in a matter of months or years, slowly releasing valuable nutrients back into the earth. Synthetic fibres, on the other hand, can be extremely slow to degrade and significantly contribute to the world’s overflowing landfills.

Good sleep is important; the impacts of poor sleep can manifest as a range of negative physical, neurological and psychological effects on one’s health. These include compromised cognition, a weakened immune system, increased risk of depression and poor physical health. One way to improve sleep quality is through a combination of sleepwear and bedding that promotes a stable micro-climate in bed. Wool’s natural and inherent attributes help to create such an environment.

Learn how wool acts like a fertiliser by slowly releasing valuable nutrients and carbon back into the soil.

Wool is a natural and renewable resource. Sheep grow wool naturally and continuously – it is part of their biological anatomy. When 100% Merino wool fabrics are disposed of, they will naturally decompose in soil in a matter of months or years, slowly releasing valuable nutrients back into the earth. Synthetic fibres, on the other hand, can be extremely slow to degrade and significantly contribute to the world’s overflowing landfills.

Recently published research has demonstrated that wearing superfine Merino wool next to the skin is beneficial for eczema sufferers. This adds to a growing number of research findings supporting the wellbeing benefits of superfine Merino wool. The research has shown that wearing superfine Merino wool significantly improves the severity and symptoms of this chronic skin condition, challenging misconceptions that all wool is prickly and itchy.

Wool fibres are naturally breathable. They can absorb large quantities of moisture vapour and allow it to evaporate, making wool garments feel less clingy and more comfortable than garments made from other fibres. In contrast to synthetics, wool is an active fibre that reacts to changes in the body’s temperature, keeping the wearer comfortable. Accordingly, wool garments are one of the most breathable of all the common apparel types. Wool’s natural resistance to odour is another key reason why wool wins for activewear.

The wool industry is continuing to invest strongly in an accurate and scientifically credible assessment of wool’s environmental footprint from its cradle on the farm, through all life stages to wool’s ultimate biodegradation back into the soil. By working with the apparel ratings agencies, through the provision of contemporary data and sound methodology, we are seeking to improve the accuracy of the ratings.

This Facilitator Guide covers the Wool fibre science course of the Wool Science, Technology and Design Education Program. The information in this Guide will support you to deliver the technical content across a series of face-to-face lectures in an engaging and easy-to-follow way and carry out a range of practical demonstrations and interactive discussions to support participant learning.

This Facilitator Guide covers the Introduction to wool processing course of the Wool Science, Technology and Design Education Program. The information in this Guide will support you to deliver the technical content across a series of face-to-face lectures in an engaging and easy-to follow way and carry out a range of practical demonstrations and interactive discussions to support participant learning.

This Facilitator Guide covers the Worsted top-making course of the Wool Science, Technology and Design Education Program. The information in this Guide will support you to deliver the technical content across a series of face-to-face lectures in an engaging and easy-to-follow way and carry out a range of practical demonstrations and interactive discussions to support participant learning.

This Facilitator Guide covers the Wool fibre science course of the Wool Science, Technology and Design Education Program. The information in this Guide will support you to deliver the technical content across a series of face-to-face lectures in an engaging and easy-to-follow way and carry out a range of practical demonstrations and interactive discussions to support participant learning.

This Facilitator Guide covers the Wool fabric finishing course of the Wool Science, Technology and Design Education Program. The information in this Guide will support you to deliver the technical content across a series of face-to-face lectures in an engaging and easy-to-follow way and carry out a range of practical demonstrations and interactive discussions to support participant learning.

This Facilitator Guide covers the Worsted & woollen spinning course of the Wool Science, Technology and Design Education Program. The information in this Guide will support you to deliver the technical content across a series of face-to-face lectures in an engaging and easy-to-follow way and carry out a range of practical demonstrations and interactive discussions to support participant learning.

This Facilitator Guide covers the Raw wool scouring course of the Wool Science, Technology and Design Education Program. The information in this Guide will support you to deliver the technical content across a series of face-to-face lectures in an engaging and easy-to-follow way and carry out a range of practical demonstrations and interactive discussions to support participant learning.

This Masterclass explored responsible fibre and material choices, how to reduce waste and pollution in your production processes and the importance of educating your customer, and offers actionable insights on how your design decisions can ensure a garment has a positive impact throughout its entire lifecycle. Recording from live panel discussion with host: Sinéad Burke, Writer, Advocate & Academic. Panel members: Richard Malone - Designer & 2020 IWP winner, Stephanie Benedetto - CEO of Queen of Raw, Borre Akkersdijk - Creative Director of BYBORRE.

In this Masterclass, Chizuru Muko discusses the growing importance of sustainability and authenticity to Japanese society and how successful brands have directed their companies through 2020. The webinar also reveals how platforms such as YouTube, are redefining brand engage with Japanese youth culture and fashion.

BODE is a luxury menswear brand that began with a collection of one-of-a-kind, tailor-made garments composed entirely of antique textiles and continues to reinvigorate American menswear through the art of storytelling. This Masterclass will explore Emily Bode’s approach to sustainable design practices, the importance of communicating your brand story and taking an innovative approach to building a new business.

UK fashion designer and International Woolmark Prize winner Edward Crutchley uses an innate knowledge of artisanal textile techniques from across the world to create pieces that reflect true contemporary luxury. Having worked with Pringle and Kanye West and currently he is the Director of Fabric and Graphics at Dior Men’s, his experience and understanding of the menswear marketplace is second to none. Here in our Insight Series Edward shares his knowledge of the industry, the importance of education and advice for emerging designers.

Champions of zero-waste manufacturing, scientific and environmentally friendly processes, and circular fashion systems, Michael and Nicole Colovos are ahead of the game when it comes to reducing fashion’s footprint through innovation.

Roland Mouret’s journey has been an unlikely route to being among the best-loved names in British fashion – not least because he is French.

Having survived war, revolution and social upheaval, Merino wool was almost lost to the ravages of man-made fibres. Now it's making a comeback. Woven in time explores the fascinating history and remarkable qualities of Merino wool and follows its journey as it's transformed into beautifully woven fabric.

Watch the online talk about the latest in knitting and yarn technology for Wool in Footwear with The Woolmark Company, Südwolle Group, STOLL by Karl Mayer and Kiefer von Zoe at D-house laboratorio urbano. Visit the Treading Lightly Wool in Footwear exhibition at D-house laboratorio urbano, Milan to discover the latest wool footwear developments, including innovative yarns and commercial products from our partners.