FAQ's | About
Where does BlistWool source it's wool?
BlistWool is 100% Canadian wool grown by sheep on British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan farms. The wool is then washed and processed in Alberta.
Is BlistWool Merino wool?
No, Merino wool falls into the <18 micron (the diameter of each fiber) category which makes it too fine for our purpose. We use the wool from breeds that generally produce a fleece within the medium category, 22 to 28 microns. This allows the wool to bind to your sock and stay in place but still provides the same beneficial qualities of Merino.
Why are there pieces of vegetation/grass in my wool?
Blistwool is so natural that it reflects the day to day life of the sheep it came from. All vegetation can only be removed by a chemical process that is NOT used for the wool that we source.
We recommend that larger pieces be removed before using it.
How is the wool cleaned and processed?
The wool is first washed with a mild, plant-based, bio-degradable detergent and then rinsed with clean water. We do not use chemicals in our processing to remove dirt and vegetation because it reduces the effectiveness of wool's natural qualities. It is also not bleached or carbonized unlike much of the wool traded on the world market.
Next is carding. This is the process of brushing the wool fibers with wire teeth to align them. Once this step is complete, we box it up, ready for you to enjoy!
How are the sheep treated day to day?
The quality of sheep's wool is directly related to its health and wellness. All the farms we source our wool from graze their sheep on pasture or rangeland during the summer. This is best for the sheep and allows them to grow nice, clean wool.
In winter, the sheep are kept close to home near a barn better protecting them predators looking for an easy meal. They are given clean straw bedding which provides them a clean and dry environment. When they do venture out of the barn in the winter, the sheep have a good thick wool coat that keeps them insulated from the cold. If you see a sheep in the winter with snow on their back, it is a sign of a healthy, happy sheep.
Is the sheering of sheep humane?
Yes, sheering at least once per year is absolutely necessary for the health and well-being of sheep. Shearers are professionally trained to make the process as quick, gentle and stress-free as possible.
Have another question?
Head on over to our Contact Us page and send us an we'll be happy to answer your question.