Classification for wool

Classification for wool:

There are about 40 breeds of sheep and more than 200 which are crossbred. Wool producing sheep may be classified into four groupings according to the Wool Quality.

1. Merino wool:

Merino sheep produces best wool. It is found in Spain. The staple is relatively short.

Ranging from 1 to 5 inches but the fiber is strong, fine and elastic and has good working properties. It has greatest amount of crimp and has maximum number of scales. Used for best wool clothing.

2. Class-two wools:

This variety is not less than a very good quality wool. Its fiber is 2 to 8 inches in length, has a large number of scales per inch and has good crimp. The fibers are strong, fine and elastic and have good working properties. Found in England, Scotland and Ireland.

3. Class-three wools:

The fibers are from 4 to 18 inches long and are coarsened have few scales and less crimp than merino and class-two wool. Smoother and more lustrous. Good enough for clothing. Originated in U.K.

4. Class-four wools:

This class refers to half-breeds. Fiber length ranges from 1 to 16 inches, coarse, hairlike have relatively few scales and little crimp and are smooth and lustrous. Mainly used for carpets, rugs and inexpensive low-grade clothing.