MERINO WOOL
Merino wool takes its name from the Merino tribe, a Berber people who settled in medieval Spain.
In the 14th century, Spain controlled the trade of this precious wool with very strict laws: exporting a Merino sheep was punishable by death.
It was only in the 18th century that the first flocks were exported to Australia and New Zealand, where even finer varieties developed thanks to the climate and genetic selection.
Today, extrafine Merino is the gold standard for high-end knitwear, thanks to its finesse and versatility.
Interesting fact : Merino sheep never stop producing wool — if they are not sheared regularly, they risk serious health problems, so constant human intervention guarantees the animal a higher standard of living.
Characteristics:
- Fineness : 15–21 microns (extrafine < 19.5)
- Hand : soft, silky
- Natural thermoregulation
- Excellent elasticity and comfort
- Washable if treated with “superwash” or similar processes
SHETLAND WOOL
Originating from the Shetland Islands, off the coast of Scotland, this wool has spanned the centuries as the fiber of the Nordic people.
It was spun and woven directly in the homes of the islands, in cold and humid environments, and used to create the famous Fair Isle sweaters, multicoloured geometric patterned jumpers, also made iconic by King Edward VIII in the 1820s.
The Shetland breed produces a strong, natural fibre, often in undyed colours, thanks to the chromatic variety of the fleece.
Fun fact : There are over 11 natural shades of Shetland wool, often used without any dye.
Characteristics:
- Fineness : 23–30 microns
- Hand : rough, dry
- Matte , full-bodied appearance
- Warm and resistant
ALPACA
The alpaca is a sacred animal in Inca culture, raised for over 5,000 years in the Andean highlands of Peru, Bolivia, and Chile.
Considered the “fiber of the gods”, the alpaca was reserved for the noble castes and emperors.
There are two main varieties:
- Huacaya: fluffy fleece, fuller hand
- Suri: silky, shiny and rare fur
Fun fact : Each alpaca produces about 2–3 kg of fiber per year and must be sheared regularly for its well-being.
Characteristics:
- Smooth and shiny hand
- High thermal insulation, light weight
- Not very elastic
The fiber is hypoallergenic, lanolin-free, and 5 times warmer than traditional wool.
MOHAIR
Mohair is the fiber of the Angora goat, originally from the Ankara region (Turkey), but introduced significantly into South Africa in the 19th century, a country which is now the world's leading producer.
Known as “diamond fiber” for its natural shine, it is used almost exclusively in blends to obtain vaporous, soft and decorative garments.
Interesting fact : Angora goats are sheared twice a year. The most valuable mohair is that from the first year, called "kid mohair."
Characteristics:
- Long and shiny fiber
- Soft and furry appearance
- Light, very warm
WHY DO MANY KNITTED SWEATERS INCLUDE SYNTHETIC FIBERS?
Some garments contain blends of polyamide, polyester, or elastane. This isn't always a "low-cost" choice: sometimes it's a design decision to increase the garment's functionality or stability.
The main reasons are:
- Greater resistance to washing
- Need for different fit and shape retention
- Aesthetic appearance or special effects, mainly on the collar, ruffle or cuffs.
CONCLUSION
Knowing wool means deciphering the true quality of a garment.
Behind the word "wool" lie different worlds: some finer, some more durable, some lustrous, some matte, some perfect for direct contact, others for layering.
At DianaStudio we choose each fiber not for fashion, but for consistency with its function, its value and its durability over time.
It is the thread, before the color or the shape, that tells the difference.
DIANA STUDIO SELECTION
- Crema
- Grigio Scuro
- Nero