Merino Wool: Nature’s Finest Fiber
Merino wool is a premium fiber obtained from the Merino sheep. Most of the world’s production comes from Australia and New Zealand, but not everyone knows that this breed actually originated in Spain.
Merino wool is our true flagship — the heart and soul of our collections. At Lana Gatto, we’ve always pursued excellence, using Extrafine or Fine Merino Wool in most of our classic yarns.
MERINO WOOL VS. TRADITIONAL WOOL
Merino wool is especially loved for its incredible softness and fineness, made possible by its micron count. The Merino fiber is extremely thin — ranging from 15 to 24 microns. Traditional wool, on the other hand, can reach up to 30 microns, making it coarser and stiffer. Because thicker fibers bend less easily, they can feel rough or itchy against the skin.
Even when knitting, Merino wool is a dream to work with — smooth, light, and pleasant to handle. Just ask any experienced knitter!
PROPERTIES AND USES
One of Merino wool’s most remarkable features is its natural temperature regulation. It acts as an insulator both against the cold and the heat, absorbing moisture without feeling wet, and releasing it through evaporation. This makes it perfect for all seasons and a wide range of uses — even in outdoor and activewear, thanks to its natural SPF protection of up to 50, depending on the density of the knit.
It’s also antibacterial and odor-resistant, thanks to the lanolin in the fiber, which prevents bacterial growth and odor absorption. That means you can wear it longer between washes — a real bonus!
Another highly appreciated property is its shape retention. Merino fibers are naturally elastic, so garments hold their shape beautifully. Even when stretched, they spring right back to their original form.
CARING FOR MERINO WOOL
Always follow the washing instructions on the yarn label or garment tag, but in general:
- Wash cold, preferably by hand
- Use mild, wool-friendly detergents and avoid fabric softeners
- Dry flat, away from direct heat or sunlight
- Avoid ironing at high temperatures
And good news — some of our yarns, like Baby Soft, are even machine washable!
SUSTAINABILITY AND CERTIFICATIONS
One of the reasons Merino wool has gained so much popularity in recent years is its sustainability. It’s biodegradable, highly renewable, and doesn’t release microplastics into the environment, unlike synthetic fibers.
Over the years, Merino wool production has become increasingly regulated and certified by international authorities that ensure consistent quality and traceability. This guarantees top standards for both companies and consumers.
The most renowned certifying body is Woolmark, which accredits companies that meet its strict criteria and promotes the unique benefits of Merino wool worldwide.
In our Classics Collection, you’ll find several Woolmark-certified yarns — including our bestsellers Super Soft, Maxi Soft, and Baby Soft, as well as new arrivals like Himalaya and Cosy, plus timeless favorites such as Perlata d’Australia, Nuovo Irlanda, and Misina.
Choosing Merino wool means choosing quality, sustainability, and comfort. Choosing Lana Gatto Merino yarns means choosing Made in Italy excellence, tradition and innovation.
Explore our Classics Collection now.
