I am often asked about Repurposed Wool...
Many years ago, finding wool was not easy. Repurposed wool was economical and sometimes the only way to add to your stash.
Where To Find Wool To Repurpose ...
Usually, if you put the word out - EVERYONE knows someone who has wool in boxes, hiding somewhere in storage.
**Use caution when choosing wool -
avoid all wool that smells like mouth balls or has a "musty", moldy type oder -
you will not be able to wash these smells from the wool.**
I enjoy a good hunt and visit the area Salvation Army, Goodwill and Thrift Shops. Occasionally, I will also find wool at yard sales.
My favorite haunt for wool to repurpose is the Salvation Army store. Every Wednesday is family day and almost everything is 50% off, with deductions taken at the register. (Double the wool for the same price !)
Skirts yield the largest amount of usable wool - the larger the size, the better.
Salvation Army has aisles of skirts - hundreds to look through, all color coordinated. Easy !
It used to be you could tell a skirt was wool by feel...
that is often no longer the case. Fibers and Textiles have advanced and made it nearly impossible to tell simply by touch.
Look for labels that tell you the skirt is 100% wool.
There are many manufacturers of beautiful wool skirts.
Look for wool that is soft and has a nice drape. Too thin wool fabric or too thick (coat weight) is not a good choice for applique or rug hooking.
I read some time ago that the garment industry is allowed to label clothing
with 80% wool content as 100% wool.
*I will discuss how to determine 100% wool later in this Repurposed Wool Series.*
I will purchase all types of weaves and textures to use in different applications. Some are suitable for Rug Hooking and others can be used for Pillow Tops, Wall Hangings, Tote Bags and still others for Applique.
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