The importance of wool through the ages.

We humans soon came to recognise that animals were going to be an essential part of our ability to survive in the world. Apart from the obvious provision of food it was also clear that their physical characteristics were also going to be invaluable. Rather than a human being doing all the work why not get an animal to help. The domestication of Dogs, Cats, Horses, Pigs, Cows, Bulls, goats, Chickens and, very importantly, sheep, was to see the development of human society and its expansion throughout the globe.

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One of the most exceptionally useful of these animals was sheep. Clothing themselves to protect their bodies from the elements soon meant that they could venture further than the warmer climes of the equator. Without the effects of global warming it is thought that the temperature was colder in the millennia ago. Without the fancy petrochemicals and modern plastics that we now possess, the only things that humans could use were the animals and plants around them to fashion garments. The pelts of sheep were found to make fantastically warm clothing. It’s why Knitting Kits are still available to this day.

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Apart from being woven and shaped into woollen garments it became clear that wool was too bulky. As the summer months came, a lighter material was needed. Wool was woven into warp and weft which gave us a much thinner material. This was breathable for the skin and soon clothes were fashioned with it. Humans are keen on colour and the use of berries and plants to create dyes was soon becoming the norm. This ability showed that humans enjoy an aesthetic regardless of what stage of their development they are in.

Come the middle ages, UK wool was recognised as the best in the world. The sheep were tough and hardy, plus they were well managed. The continent of Europe demanded this cloth so that they could set about creating some of the finest clothes. British wool exports began to be so popular, and brought in vast quantities. With this finest cloth they cut the clothes and garments for the rich and famous.

Whilst we have learnt to apply better treatments to modern wool production is still continuing apace. There are plenty of styles and colours that a home knitter can choose from. Many now even contain glitter and other accessories as included to keep wool relevant and through the ages to come.

About the author

TMTAdmin

Kim Lee lives in Tampa, Florida and focuses on living an intentionally happy life, helping others live better, and having a whole lot of fun. She loves to write, read, enjoy the outdoors, and play with dogs.

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