Wool

**Characteristics of Wool**:
– Wool is produced by follicles located in the skin.
– Follicles can be primary or secondary.
– Wool fibers have crimp and scales aiding in spinning.
– Wool fabric retains heat due to air holding capacity.
– Wool is crimped, elastic, and can felt upon agitation.

**Processing of Wool**:
– Sheep shearing involves cutting off the fleece.
– Wool is classified into fleece, broken, bellies, and locks.
– Wool must be scoured to remove impurities before use.
– Wool classing determines quality based on various factors.
– Wool can be processed into yarn or other products.

**Quality and Production of Wool**:
– Raw wool contains impurities like vegetable matter and yolk.
– Wool quality is determined by fiber diameter and crimp.
– Major wool-producing countries include Australia, China, and New Zealand.
– Merino wool is fine with lengths between 90-115mm.
– Wool grades vary based on diameter and style.

**Historical and Economic Impact of Wool**:
– Sheep domestication dates back 9,000 to 11,000 years ago.
– Wool trade was the economic engine of various regions throughout history.
– European wool textile from 1500 BC found in a Danish bog.
– Resources shifted to meat production for sheep growers.
– Wool trade became a significant source of income in medieval times.

**Innovation and Market Trends in Wool Industry**:
– Superwash wool technology introduced in the early 1970s.
– Global wool production estimated at about 2 million tonnes.
– Wool production decreased due to increased use of synthetic fibers.
– Wool retains shape, longevity, and durability over synthetic materials.
– Wool suit developed in Japan in 2007 can be washed in the shower.