Question 1

How do I keep my fleece clean?

Accepted Answer

Sheep produce lanolin to keep themselves warm and dry in the winter.  When we work with the fleeces and wash them we use a shampoo that contains lanolin to ensure that it maintains a natural protection from dirt.

Regularly taking your fleece outside for a good shake will help keep it in good condition, we use a carpet beater to help loosen dust.

Question 2

Can I wash my felted fleece?

Accepted Answer

We recommend washing by hand.

Fill a bath with lukewarm water (not exceeding 30°C) and add a wool or silk detergent. Carefully immerse the rug face down and gently swish it around and let it soak for about an hour. Rinse with cold water but do not swish it this time. Stand on the fleece to remove excess water and lay it flat to dry.

Question 3

Where do the fleeces come from?

Accepted Answer

The fleeces are shorn from Ropewalk Farm's own flock of sheep that are Whiteface Dartmoor sheep (and a few very welcome rescues).

Question 4

Can I use a vacuum cleaner on my fleece?

Accepted Answer

These rugs are not suitable for vacuum cleaning.

Question 5

How can I protect my fleece from moths?

Accepted Answer

Moths are attracted to wool products in your home due to the keratin in the fibres. To prevent moth damage, here are some helpful tips:

When creating fleeces, they’re washed thoroughly multiple times, and are soaked at temperatures above 60°C to ensure any moth eggs in the wool are killed by the high heat. 
The fleeces have been applied with  Clothes Doctor Moth Repellent, a highly recommended product for protecting woollen items in your home.

If you happen to spot moths or their larvae in your woollen products, it's essential to take action promptly. Moths often lay eggs, so if you see adult moths, there's a good chance eggs and larvae are present. Also, if you notice small holes in your fleece, it's a sign of moth larvae infestation.

To address this issue, freeze the affected item if possible, to kill any eggs and then follow the washing instructions mentioned above.

If soaking your fleece in a high temperature, DO NOT agitate the fleece so as to avoid any possible felting of the locks.

Studies have shown that lavender is effective in repelling moths and other insects.  An all natural solution that does not contain any harsh chemicals or toxins that is also a natural insect repellent due to its strong smell.  Lavender oil contains compounds called monoterpenes, which are toxic to moths.  Lavender is also non-toxic to humans and pets, making it a safe and effective way to keep moths away.

Question 6

Will my fleece moult?

Accepted Answer

Each sheep is unique and therefore so is each fleece, some may shed more than others.

Question 7

Will my fleece contain vegetable matter?

Accepted Answer

Each fleece is washed many times to ensure that it is completely clean.  Some sheep will have enjoyed rubbing on the hay feeder during the winter months more than others and therefore some fleeces may still contain some vegetable matter.   We endeavour to remove as much as we can, but some may be missed.  It's a magical part of the fleece and nature.

Question 8

Can I meet the sheep that my fleece came from?

Accepted Answer

Contact us at Ropewalk Farm and we will do our best to accommodate.

Question 9

Do you offer a cleaning/mending service?

Accepted Answer

We do offer a cleaning/mending service, please contact us for further details.

Somerset Living Wool

FAQ's