Unaroo

Did you know you could count the number of commercial wool scouring facilities in the UK on one hand?

Last month, I attended the inaugural Summit.

At an event that brought together farmers and fashion and everyone in-between, perhaps one of the least glamorous topics of the day was also one of the most important: infrastructure.

A question I keep coming back to came early in the day, from Faye during the Farmer Roundtable: is the increase in demand for British wool enough, and fast enough, to support other stages of processing which are struggling?

Because it’s not enough to grow wonderful wool. We also need the people, places and skills to turn it into something more.

Earlier this month, I headed down to for the first Summit - Industry day.

Brining together people from across the wool supply chain, from clip to consumer, the day was full of insightful panels and rich discussion.

The conversation frequently turned to the emotional connection we have with wool in the UK, the longevity of the fibre and the industry, the fragility of our local infrastructure for wool processing today, and why designing for breed matters.

And what wasn’t said? I would have liked to have seen more discussion around the economic realities of choosing wool and the practicalities around scaling local processes, as well as more concrete action points to drive forward change.

For the inaugural event, it offered a rare space to share valuable insights from different stages of the wool journey. I look forward to seeing where the event goes from here.

I’m curious; what does the term ‘British wool’ make you think of?

I went to Thorabella Farm over the weekend.

I came across a farm walk around post on socials by complete chance, but it seemed like a lovely way to spend a Saturday. £6pp to be surrounded by goats, sheep, emu, water buffalo, rabbits and more? Take my money.

And honestly, it was delightful. There is something so healing about an opportunity to let your inner child out.

I suppose what I’m really saying is that in a busy, loud world, sometimes the best thing you can do is let yourself be free, enjoying quality time with loved ones. And baby animals.

Thorabella Farm

Last month, I was invited down to the British Wool depot in Selkirk for the launch of their new Scottish wool label. Before I went, I asked what you wanted to know about the new logo.

So, will they be specific to breeds of sheep?

In short, no. The new Scottish label, and the existing Welsh one, look at the source of the wool; where it’s been grown and graded.

So whether the wool is destined to become carpets or yarn, tweed or bedding, the regional logo gives a quick and clear indicator as to the provenance of the fibre.

Do get in touch with British Wool if you’re a brand looking to source a more specific wool, for example one breed, to see how they can help. But when you’re buying a product, I would expect to see that story told by the brand themselves.

And if you’re ever in doubt about where the wool comes from, why not ask?

Thank you for answering my questions, and inviting me to such an exciting launch event!

As if British Wool prices being at a 10 year high wasn’t exciting enough, they’re continuing to rise even as we await the new 2026 clip entering the market!

Index up almost 7% on the last sale to 2.583
Average clean fleece at £2.579 per kg
Average greasy fleece at £1.689 per kg

After a day at Dumfries House for the inaugural Great British Wool Revival Summit, I’m feeling particularly excited about here future of our fabulous native wool!

Watch this space to see how the next auction goes on 9th June 👀

Why do we love this wool?

I caught up with Andy from Catlow Yarns - Natural Wool Yarns from British Gotland Sheep last month to find out more about their Gotland sheep and wool.

The Gotland is not a native British breed, instead arriving in the UK over 50 years ago from Sweden. I loved learning more about the friendly, inquisitive nature of these animals, and the squishy wool they produce.

I was opposite Andy at my last Scottish Yarn Festival in 2025, but this time I spoke with Andy at the lovely Woolly Good Gathering in mid-April for part 4 of my series exploring wool through the people who know it best.