Shetland top comes from the fleece of Shetland sheep, a hardy conservation breed native to the Shetland Isles of Scotland. As a spinning fiber, Shetland top drafts smoothly, produces a semi-lustrous yarn with good stitch definition, and felts nicely, making it a versatile choice for hand spinners working across a range of projects and techniques.
Shetland sheep produce fleece in a wider natural color range than most breeds including white, moorit (reddish brown), grey, fawn, and black. These natural shades have historically been used undyed in the traditional textiles of the Shetland Isles, including Fair Isle colorwork.
Specifications:
- Fiber Content: 100% Wool
- Breed: Shetland
- Weight: 250g
- Staple Length: 2.5 - 4.5 inches
- Micron Average: 23 - 30
- Country of Origin: Great Britain
Why spinners choose Shetland top:
- Medium micron count (23–30 microns) produces a yarn with durability and mild softness — suitable for outerwear, colorwork, socks, and accessories worn against skin with moderate sensitivity
- Longer staple length (2.5–4.5 inches) supports both worsted and woolen drafting styles and adds strength to the finished yarn
- Natural color range eliminates the need for dyeing when working with undyed or nature-inspired colorways
- Felts reliably for wet felting and needle felting projects
- Conservation breed — purchasing Shetland fiber supports the preservation of a heritage sheep breed
