Traditionally Washed Wool

Farmers have for centuries washed their sheep before clipping using what they called a washfold. Stone wall collecting pens were built near a stream and then when clipping time approached the stream was dammed to create a small pond. The sheep were then lowered into the water and allowed to swim around, for several minutes. Farmers stood up to their waists in the water to duck the sheep several times to make sure they were completely soaked. This swimming action caused the wool to float allowing the water to penetrate to the skin and washing out all unwanted dirt and excess grease. This made the wool easier to clip and ideal for the hand spinners,it also considerably reduced the weight for transporting. Although using streams is now banned, this wool has been washed in a similar way using clean cold water and allowing the wool to float.