8 Sheep Breeds for Warm Yarns and Knits 🐑 (

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Fact Correction: Merino sheep were gifted to Thomas Jefferson in 1805. 1840 represents the date the population of Merino sheep peaked in the US. Today we're exploring eight different sheep breeds you're likely to see on yarn labels. My goal with this is to provide a little additional background on each of these breeds as it relates to the yarn characteristics. This is a brief sampling and not an exhaustive list. The video moves along at a good clip intentionally and the music is there to add a jaunty vibe. Just like I like my vibes. 😉 Thank you for watching! ❤ Tayler

[@charlot-temisery]

every time i hear someone say corriedale isn't as soft as merino, I always want to make them feel a corriedale fleece. On average, yes, the corriedale has a less fine fleece than merino, but the range is much more vast in micron count, and i personally have come across more than 1 whole corriedale fleece that is just as soft as any merino i've ever spun, indeed softer than a naturally coloured merino fleece i actually have in my stash. on the whole good information though, because if people buy corriedale expecting the same softness as merino there is a chance of disappointment for sure.

[@masz10676]

Where do u get Corridale rove/yarn from within US? Thanks

[@charlot-temisery]

couldn't tell ya. I'm Australian, and live in Australia.@@masz10676

[@shepherd4406]

When buying a fleece I found it important to handle the fleece before purchasing because having had sheep of various breeds and handled fleeces at our local fairs and fiber festivals, that there is a range of difference between between fleeces in every breed. If you don’t have that option, some companies send samples. Also, if you find a fleece that you like, you can work with the breeder to get the fleece off that sheep the next year.

[@kevindonohue2912]

You hit two of my all-time favorites for spinning - BFL and Shetland! They are very different, but I find both very enjoyable to work with. I think Shetland, Romney and Icelandic are considered 'unimproved' or 'primitive' breeds, as there has been no intentional breeding with other sheep (occasionally, if other breeds are bought into contact with these sheep, hybrids may emerge). There is one Island in the Shetland archipelago that is known to have very pure Shetland sheep. Now, unimproved is not a great term, as all breeds kept by humans have been selectively culled and bread, but it means you won't find something like merino in their family tree. Signs of unimproved, or primitive breeds, are a variety of wool colors (merino, etc., were bread to be white) and often multiple sets of horns (I've seen photos of Romney with three sets of horns (six) and two sets (four) is very common. Romeldale, a hybrid of Romney and Rambouillet, are mostly white, but the California Variegated Mutant (CVM) are ones that have reverted to having colored wool (I'm a huge fan of natural wool colors). Anyway, I also have a soft spot for Navajo Churro (which, like the Diné people, have resisted multiple attempts by the US government to wipe them out) but I have not knit with it - the Diné use the fleece to spin wool for rugs and tapestries. Well, anyway, I focus on breeds for spinning, and I feel like if I give someone something I knit from yarn I did not spin, I must not like them too much, LOL. But please look for "Heritage Breeds" - many have become quite rare but if we make a choice to use them, farmers can afford to raise them. Happy knitting to all, and to all some warm fleece! There is a program run by The Livestock Conservancy, "Shave'em 2 Save'em" (I have zero affiliation) that encourages fiber folks to buy the wool from these breeds - a worthwhile endeavor in my humble opinion.

[@Cedardale_craft]

This was great. It would be great to know a bit more about what breeds' fleeces go into commercial big brand yarns where they aren't identified as being merino, IE it says something like 100% wool.

[@sarabelle0312]

It wasn't Corriedale that made me fall in love with spinning, but a brown Californian Jacob roving. It's my favorite spin to date ❤

[@jamiethrogmorton2540]

As a new spinner, I’m soaking up everything I can about the qualities of different fibers, in a way I never bothered to as a knitter. So this was timely and interesting, thanks.

[@SarahJo]

I can be sensitive to texture and some wools don't bother me and some really do so I was worried about ordering wool yarn online, but through feeling around at different LYS's I've realized that merino and BFL are safe bets for me, though BFL is my favorite so if I was going to knit a full wool sweater that'd be my go to! Having to learn what works and what doesn't by breed was defiantly an interesting experiment over time!

[@rixatrix]

I love how in depth you go with these videos. On the internet in general, there’s so much surface level information on any topic, less intermediate-level info, and very little expert level information. I’ve been knitting for 22 years and while I understand the difference between merino, cashmere, alpaca, and natural wool with lanolin, I haven’t heard of some of these other breeds-so thank you for breaking it down for us! You’re awesome.

[@Sandreline]

FYI: The Knitter's Book of Wool is out of print. But it is worth it to track it down. I use it often as a reference book.

[@jamiethrogmorton2540]

Many available on Amazon, fortunately! 🧶

[@Shetlandabbey]

I recently started raising Shetland sheep. I fell in love with them when I was researching the best sheep to bring to our farm. Easy to handle , delightful personalities and relatively small compared to merino. We will shear them in June and I would love to send you some samples . Shetland abbey farm

[@paulhermann8239]

Wow thanks Tayler. I’ve read the Knitters Book of Wool and loved it. But having your overview of the eight different breeds of sheep and their characteristics was so helpful for picking yarn for a specific project. The teacher in you shines bright in podcasts like tonight’s. That’s a compliment from one former teacher to another.💕. Iris

[@bagladysendtheferalspinner3761]

I would recommend getting a copy of the Fleece and Fibre Field Guide that accompanies Deb. Robson's book. It is the best, affordable and carriable.

[@Mollydogdesigns]

Great info! I can highly recommend the book Vanishing Fleece by Clara Parkes. She’s an excellent writer! In this book she takes us a journey to see how wool becomes yarn! ❤️👍🧶🧶🧶

[@Sandreline]

(and get the audiobook. Clara narrates it and she has a lovely voice.)

[@roseannthomason2123]

Love, love, love this subject matter! The more I knit, the more interested I become in the rustic wools and I love the history behind them. The more educated we are about our fiber choices, the more pleased we will be with our finished creations. Would love a part two with even more info on other breeds and the wool they produce. Very informative and educational. You are such a pleasure to watch and I am so thankful for your channel and many others. It’s great therapy!!❤️❤️

[@yellowlarch11]

Was pleasantly surprised to hear the Jacob mentioned! I bought some natural-colored Jacob yarn from a local-to-me farmer in North Carolina and it is beautiful! A heathered gray with a slight brown tint! I've swatched with it, but haven't yet decided on the perfect project for it yet. 😊

[@masz10676]

The "teacher" has done it again. The P&P. Prepared and presented great content. Thanks for sharing.

[@joannegarfoot4279]

Utterly fascinating Taylor……brilliant ramble 🎉❤

[@saraw8503]

Such great information. Of course, the sheep breed is always in the yarn description. I feel I am now armed with more understanding when purchasing yarn.

[@comfycozytoo]

Just watched over breakfast without my knitting. Just love listening to you Tayler!

[@annjavoroski2344]

Thanks for the great information. Because of spinning, I thought I’d read a lot about fleece but I just heard a lot of valuable stuff. Thanks for continuing your teaching career. You’re a natural.

[@hollidaegriffin7249]

My favorite sweater I have ever knit is with a Finn/Merino blend - I loved knitting with it!

[@woolaroundtheworld]

Thanks for sharing this. Really intresting. I still prefer some of the none sheepy wool for the combination of warmth and softness. Like yak or alpaka, or even camel. Everything that lives in the high mountains, and harsh conditions. Have a great day

[@jenniferjohnson9335]

Oooh, Fleece 101 class is in session! This was so interesting to learn the origins and breeds of sheep. Any time I see sheep or alpacas (we have an alpaca farm locally!), I consider that "yarn on the hoof". Thanks for sharing!

[@chrissy24-7]

Great info! Also, sheep 🐑 are very cute, no matter the flavor 😂❤

[@helenjowett7879]

Lincoln sheep are also worth a mention as they come from Lincolnshire in England and were renowned for long staple. Also Leicester is in the Midlands not Northern part of England. I don't often come across the sheep breed on labels. Perhaps you're better informed in USA! Great idea to let us know the different types of yarn.

[@marmaladeduck5538]

I second this, but also Finn sheep are just beautiful. The first time I felt a Finn fleece I knew instantly I'd found my new favourite breed ;)

[@the-painted-quilter]

This was so interesting and now I’m heading for the rabbit hole 😉😁

[@theyarngoeson]

I love Corriedale/Nylon sock yarn and the socks I’ve made seem warmer than my other socks.

[@cherieloar3233]

Very interesting about the different types of sheep and their wool. Thank you. I am wondering if you have a resource recommendation or might be interested in making a video chat about how to determine what size of yarn a skein might be. This has been confusing to me as sizes that don’t seem to be the same from one yarn producer to the next.

[@valeriehowden471]

Thanks for all the info. I met all breeds except the last 2 at our local fibre festival in September. Wonderful animals!

[@Melia-77]

Great capsulization of the yarn breed world. I much appreciate your descriptions as indeed we don't always have the time or inclination for detailed and simultaneously broad research. Thank you!

[@spunNstitched]

I learn a new word just about every episode…..😊

[@sarahashley13]

I'm blessed to have local access to Jacob fleece (and hope to one day have my own small flock). I personally enjoy spinning the fiber though it is a bit different that what is 'standard' on the market so it's an acquired feel. Fun video!

[@kithg]

So interesting. Thanks very much.

[@eyrestudio60]

Another great and interesting video 😊

[@katieo3882]

I’m enjoying your podcasts. You are very articulate. Plus my daughter used to be in Henderson. Glad your knitting in the heat.

[@ATS5024]

LOVE LOVE LOVE this episode - thank you! ❤🧶

[@MarquitasKnottyCrush]

These are my favorite topics, bring on the breed studies! Thanks for sharing!

[@Azure_Jewel]

How do you retain so much information? Wow! Very smart!

[@chrissyfarmer2949]

Excellent Episode!! Thanks so much!!

[@LochBriarKnits]

I just bought my first couple of plates of Plotulopi yarn, as well as a couple of balls of lettlopi and I can't wait to knit with them. I've been wanting to try them for years but worried they might be too itchy against my skin, so I will likely start off with a shawl for the plotulopi and maybe a hat for the lettlopi.

[@ZarakhCreations]

This was super helpful as a new spinner to know what I'm looking at in fiber batts. Thanks!

[@StephanieMayfieldDIG]

Corriedale and bfl are great for learning to spin.

[@penzer2010]

If you put that info in pdf form, I bet people would buy it. I would😊

[@karenalbery2773]

I love wool, all if them. The only reason i have other fibers in my stash is for gift knitting. Oh and and items for dirty careless little kids..... mine are the absolute worst hahaha. Great video as always.

[@jacquistyles-kh8cy]

So much great information! Thank you Tayler

[@SEM4luv]

This video again did not disappoint! Omg I learned so much and was so interested by the different properties of each breed. I love your work and the way you combine explanations with pictures and screenshots.❤️❤️ So intriguing

[@knm4life1]

I just got into the world of sheep breed and my gosh there r so many! Bought welsh mountain, cheviot and moorit, and though they r not next to skin soft, its very nice to knit. Ill sure be trying a lot more!

[@suzannecarr5871]

Thank you once again for a wonderfully informative podcast. I am currently listening to Clara Parkes "Vanishing Fleece" on Audible and feel like between the two of you, I am a much more delightfully informed yarn consumer.

[@SharonCullenArt]

This was so interesting Taylor. Thanks so much for your research. 😊

[@dawnupperman524]

Very informative! Thanks for all the research. I actually have the Book of Wool in my collection. I’m motivated to pull it out dive in❤️

[@carmenrolfe268]

Great information Taylor! Thank you 😊

[@christineborgatti3760]

I have all 8 for spinning.

[@mantizq9621]

Thank you, was looking for something like this❤! I take from this the super important consideration that softer yarn may not be as durable wich for some reason haven't occurred to me.

[@cathybodini5168]

Thanks for this great video. It answered lots of question I’ve had😃😃

[@zillahrhodes3848]

Thanks very much, that was soooooo interesting! 😉

[@jo-annefalconer6280]

Fascinating thanks for all the research you do.

[@kayjeanne8346]

Love your podcast! Always useful and entertaining, concise and intelligent.

[@chadscreationstation9364]

This was extremely informative! I use merino when I want wool because I have eczema and I'm afraid that the "Scratchiness" will trigger a flare up but I have quite a few different types to experiment with now :)

[@Muminalfurinn]

Love the subject 😍 regards from Iceland 🐑

[@leahholland6272]

Love the comparison and info...

[@shepherd4406]

This was a joy to watch. Thank you.

[@tulpenballerina]

That was amazing!🐑🤍🐏

[@alisonsmith376]

Interesting, thanks Tayler! 🐑

[@phoenixhulsey2868]

ok but your little sheep plushies 🥰

[@janetkemper9177]

Love this video. This is a subject that I find so interesting.

[@carolinedubose5136]

Great video!! Great information!!

[@3Dhyana]

Fascinating

[@carmenrolfe268]

Thanks!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Then you so much Carmen!

[@cherylbaker1396]

This was soooo enlightening. Thank you!

[@mayyeung9970]

Just subscribed to your channel and have already learned so much. Thank you!

[@Azure_Jewel]

Where are you hiding the lutist? 😅 I love all the sound /effects!❤️

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

His name is Sigmund and he plays for me ever so slightly out of frame. 😉

[@CarolineSdm]

Thank you for a great video! 😊

[@Azure_Jewel]

Thank you so much. Great talk. When did the words rabbit hole become so overused? Where did it all begin?🥴

[@amyporter5765]

I bet you could go down the rabbit hole to find out 😉

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Buwahahahahaha!!! Well-played.

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Ugh. I don’t know. It’s not worth opening up that can of worms. 😉

[@amyporter5765]

@@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS hahaha 😆

[@katibere1966]

Great info…thank you!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

My pleasure! ❤️

[@micheledelacruz4301]

Thank you for sharing this knowledge with us, good to know. I appreciate you. Ps quick question is there background music in this podcast or am I hearing things?

[@clairegasson4187]

So interesting, thanks very much

[@petramanos]

If yarn just says "wool" without specifying the breed, what breed is it likely to be? I'm guessing there must be some common breed that supplies both meat and wool industries?

[@jenm4721]

it's usually a blend of wool with similar characteristics from many different breeds.

[@comfycozytoo]

Im intrigued by jamieson and smith shetland yarn. It says its fingering weight but its finish is worsted/woolen. I dont get that 🤔

[@mongrain8934]

❤❤❤

[@estherdigianvittorio5279]

I love breed specific yarn. Check out Long way homestead farm and mill in Manitoba Canada. They have wonderful breed of the month club. Also what about Cormo ?

[@LualaDy]

I can tolerate a merino scarf against my neck, but for the life of me cannot wear merino on my boobies. I tried making a merino bralette, as people were saying it's also a good summer yarn and on my, it is a sensory hell for me =O I have to wear it as an accessory on top of a shirt

[@alexandradegruyter]

❤

[@chris112233ish]

🍍

[@annabelle7123]

FYI Rambouillet is pronounced as ram-boo-eeh-eh (t is not pronounced) Double Ls are pronounced like Y, just like the Versailles!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Well, I pronounce it this way because I have an American accent with English as my native language. The French would also not voice the ‘r’ but would rather pull that sound from the back of their throat. For discussion’s sake: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o2GpdKWOZpeMprssi=EpVjlSQTH6bzWb5T

[@kayjeanne8346]

The double l's in Versailles aren't pronounced at all. The French say "vair-SIGH".

[@Meredith36]

💚🐑🧶💚

[@BarbaraMullally-f5v]

Recheck the date of Rambouilett sheep coming to America. Thomas Jefferson died in 1828.

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Yes indeed. The date of his first official gift of sheep is 1805. I mixed up the date in my notes with the one written right below representing the year the Merino sheep population peaked in the US. 🤦‍♀️

[@allnaturalnutknitting4272]

:)

[@hannae7298]

Disappointed you didn't mention it's important to make sure to only use mulesing free wool when you talked about merino wool

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

This video is about different sheep breeds that produce warm yarns. Mulesing is a topic I am very familiar with and have explored in previous videos, however it would require its own video to do it justice and to provide the background folks would need to understand the practice. And if we're talking about animal husbandry shortcomings in general, mulesing is not the only practice that could be called into question. However, despite how important these things are to understand as a yarn consumer, I keep a limit on the time and info volume of my episodes and a discussion on mulesing just wouldn't fit into this video in a meaningful and effective way. In a future video, defintely.

[@hannae7298]

It takes two seconds to mention. Nowadays fashion influensers do mentions when they buy and show clothes with merino, that the item/wool is mulesing free. As said. Takes two seconds to mention @@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

@@hannae7298 it takes two seconds to mention something. It takes significantly longer to provide valuable information that can help make an individual a more informed consumer. I appreciate your suggestion, however I choose to produce my content in a way that is meaningful, educational and unassuming. When I am ready to produce the video that provides insight into animal husbandry as it relates to sheep and fleece animals, I will be sure that the information is more valuable than a two second mention.

[@hannae7298]

Still, it takes two seconds to give that information, and it is still just two seconds more than not giving that information. Who is saying that one must inform ALL information in that matter when mention this? You can just simply say: Hey, remember to always choose mulesing free merino wool. And that´s is. If you wanted, you could also just say: For more information about mulesing, be sure to check out my other videos about that practice, or you could say: For more information about mulesing, there is ton of information on the internet to read.@@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS

[@BeckyClowers]

Wow! Thank you so much for such a great lesson on a topic that I have been wanting to research but haven’t taken the time for yet. ❤🧶🐑