You might have come across the term "microns" and wondered what it means. While it may sound technical, understanding microns can make a huge difference in the quality of wool you're buying and how comfortable it will feel to wear.

At Waverley Mills, we believe in helping you make informed decisions, so let’s break it down in a way that's easy to understand and helps you get the most out of your purchase.

What are microns?

Simply put, a micron (or micrometre) is a unit of measurement used to describe the thickness of individual wool fibres. It’s equal to one-millionth of a metre (0.001 millimetres). When wool is graded, the micron count refers to the average thickness of the fibres in a batch.

Why should this matter to you? The finer the wool (the lower the micron number), the softer and more comfortable it feels.

Why is fibre diameter important?

The thickness of wool fibres has a big impact on how the fabric feels and performs. Here's why:

• Softness: Finer wool with a lower micron count feels much softer on your skin. If you’ve ever tried wearing a coarse wool sweater, you know that the finer the fibre, the more comfortable it is, especially for clothing worn directly on the skin.
• Comfort: Lower micron wool (think Merino or Cashmere) results in fabrics that feel plush and cozy without being itchy or scratchy. This is ideal for those who want all the warmth of wool but none of the discomfort.
• Insulation: Fine wool traps more air, offering excellent warmth while still remaining breathable. It’s the perfect material for keeping you comfortable all year round—warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Micron quality and fibre types

Each type of fibre will have a different grading system and micron range associated with it. Here’s a quick guide to four of the main fibre types used in Waverley Mills products; the tables show the grading system and micron range for each fibre.

Why this matters to Waverley Mills

At Waverley Mills, we’re passionate about delivering high-quality wool products that stand the test of time. That’s why we focus on micron quality when selecting the wool for our goods. By ensuring our wool meets specific micron standards, we guarantee that each product offers the best combination of softness, durability, and comfort.

Whether you're buying a wool throw, an Alpaca scarf, or a Merino wool blanket, knowing the micron count helps you understand the quality of what you're getting. It's the key to feeling the difference between coarse wool and luxuriously soft, premium wool.