In short
- Merino is wool from merino sheep; its fibre is far finer than ordinary wool.
- It regulates temperature: warm in the cold, not stuffy indoors.
- It absorbs moisture and naturally resists odour.
- Blended with mohair it makes a warm, voluminous, soft oversized cardigan.
Merino is the world’s most popular premium wool, and for good reasons. Here is the short version.
Where merino comes from
The merino breed was developed in Spain, and today Australia produces the most merino wool. The sheep grow a very dense fleece of fine, crimped fibre, and that crimp is what gives springiness and warmth.
Merino microns
| Category | Fibre diameter | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrafine | up to ~15.5 µm | base layers, premium jersey |
| Superfine | ~15.6–18.5 µm | next-to-skin pieces |
| Fine | ~18.6–20 µm | sweaters, cardigans |
| Medium | ~20–23 µm | warm outerwear knits |
Ordinary wool is often 25–35 µm, which is why it itches and merino does not. See Does mohair itch?.
Properties
- Temperature regulation. Air between crimped fibres holds warmth while the fibre wicks moisture.
- Freshness. Wool naturally holds less odour, so it needs washing less often.
- Resilience. Merino remembers its shape and resists creasing.
- Safety. Wool is naturally flame-resistant.
Shop the edit
“Rosie” Baby Mohair & Merino Cardigan, Fuchsia · $212.50
Fluffy Baby Mohair & Merino Cardigan, Graphite · $212.50
Oversized Mohair & Merino Cardigan, Turquoise · $212.50Merino + mohair
Our warm cardigans Rosie, Graphite and Turquoise are knitted from Italian baby mohair and merino yarn with ~5% metallic thread. Merino brings density and warmth, mohair a fluffy halo and lightness, and the metallic thread a quiet shimmer. It is the choice for cold months when you want to wrap up in a cardigan like a blanket.
Care
Merino dislikes hot water and agitation, which make it felt. Cool water, wool wash, dry flat. Step by step in our washing guide.
FAQ
Is merino warmer than ordinary wool?
Weight for weight, yes, and it is finer, softer and more breathable.
Can merino go in the washing machine?
Only if the label says “superwash” and you use a gentle wool cycle. Handmade pieces are best washed by hand.
Why blend merino with mohair?
Merino brings warmth and body; mohair brings lightness, lustre and fluffy volume. Together they make a warm but not heavy cardigan.
