Gotland/BFL batts - Blue Slate ~50g

* NOTE: these batts are at a slightly reduced introductory price due to having been carded and stored for longer than usual. However test spinning has ensured they still draft satisfactorily and create beautiful yarn.

These hand dyed wool batts are created using the Gotland fleeces from my own sheep, raised and sheared by me here in Wales.   I scour and dye the locks before hand-processing them to card with hand dyed Blue-faced Leicester (BFL) tops to create subtle heathered shades in an all-British yarn blend with a slight texture.

This is my favourite garment yarn blend. The Gotland long wool wears exceptionally well. When blended with soft BFL it creates both body and strength whilst remaining soft enough for an everyday sweater yarn that maintains its shape well. The Gotland fibres fluff up with wear to create a fuzzy halo effect reminiscent of kid mohair and making a cosy fabric that works across several seasons. This is also an excellent blend for mittens and gloves and could be spun into a natural sock blend. 50g batts allow mix and match between different shades or to purchase a larger batch for a whole garment.

50% Gotland / 50% BFL

The colour batches are small and non-repeatable and due to the amount of hand-processing involved will be added to the shop as and when more can be made - so keep checking back in case there's a new colour you fancy to add to your collection!

Due to the hand-processed fleece content, some texture remains within these batts and is considered part of the natural charm for this particular product and not a flaw.

Both Gotland and BFL wools are excellent felting fibres so these can be included in felt-making projects.

For handspun yarns and finished items, cool hand wash only in a suitable detergent for delicate wool/silk items to avoid accidental felting.

For more about my Gotland sheep you can access links to my blog via my website or you can join my Ravelry group to join in conversations there, get spinning tips or show us what you've made with BarberBlackSheep fibres.