Swaledale is an English breed from Yorkshire, whose fleece is traditionally used in heavier homeware items such a rugs. The fibre has a wonderful mix of creamy grey and darker almost black (random) hairs. You will also find across the roving that there is a fair mixture of thicker and finer hairs, which gives a lovely, textural handle.

 

It can be spun into yarn for textured hand knitting and with a bit of work can be wet felted too. I have used hints of it in my needlefelting and have found the contrast of colour and handle a wonderful texture to play with.

 

Count: 21-41 micron/Bradford 40-60, Staple: 10-20cm

Weight: 50g (approx. 120 - 140cm length)

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