DOLL HAIR WOOL CREPE ~ CHESTNUT

Wool Crepe is made from natural sheep wool. These lovely plaits, once pulled apart, create the loveliest curly beards, doll hair and doll wigs. It can also be used for creating wigs and beards for stage performance.

10cm will supply a 4cm/1.5inch head with plenty of curls.

Available in 15 colours.

DOLL HAIR WOOL CREPE ~ GOLDEN YELLOW

Wool Crepe is made from natural sheep wool. These lovely plaits, once pulled apart, create the loveliest curly beards, doll hair and doll wigs. It can also be used for creating wigs and beards for stage performance.

10cm will supply a 4cm/1.5inch head with plenty of curls.

DOLL JERSEY ~ De Witte Engel Quality. The best in our opinion!

Well known for making Steiner/Waldorf Dolls, this double knitted fabric is a pleasure to work with and a pleasure to cuddle! It is knitted in the round creating a tube like fabric with no seams.

Please read below for more info.

World Wide Recognized

De Witte Engel in-house Doll Jersey has gained worldwide recognition for its thick high quality, wide colour range as well as for its extra soft and smooth feel. Doll jersey as a material has specific requirements which make the manufacturing process more complex than normal jersey. Therefore, doll jersey has become a specialty product for only a few companies in the world.

Safe and EU regulations compliant

De Witte Engel Doll Jersey is made in Europe from ökotex certified, 100 % cotton yarns and is dyed according to European legislation code EN71 guidelines. These certificates proof that De Witte Engel Doll Jersey is natural, sustainable, and free from toxic and harmful substances and colourants, and especially safe to use in children’s toys.

Double knit Special Quality

The quality of De Witte Engel Doll Jersey is elevated by a double-knit technique. This technique makes our Doll Jersey thicker and more durable as it has two layers of knit together instead of one. This also means that when stretched, our Doll Jersey does not become see-through. These small but crucial steps make all the difference also for the final product the dolls. Even minor variations in the stretch or colour can affect the proportions, durability and life-likeness of the doll. Therefore, De Witte Engel 100 % cotton Doll Jersey is a reliable and consistent choice for crafters and doll makers in every corner of the world.

Annual membership for ongoing learning within the Natural Dyers & Growers Academy.

Membership offers continuity, shared learning and access to live events and resources for those who wish to stay closely connected to the Academy.

The Academy Membership is designed for learners who want to stay engaged with natural colour practice over time — through live conversation, seasonal learning and a growing body of shared resources.

Membership is hosted within the Natural Dyers & Growers Academy and complements the open, free Academy community by offering deeper access and continuity.

Membership includes

• Access to all live Academy events

• Full recordings library of past events

• Seasonal grow-alongs and dye-alongs

• Access to deeper shared resources

• Ongoing connection within the Academy learning spaces

You’re welcome to join the Academy community for free at any time — membership is for those who wish to deepen their engagement and take part regularly.

How it works

• Purchase your annual membership here on the website

• After checkout, you’ll receive an email with a link to join the Academy platform

• You’ll be guided through a simple sign-up process to activate your membership access

Membership runs for 12 months from the date of purchase.

Who this membership is for

• Regular learners who value live discussion and shared reflection

• Practitioners seeking continuity alongside their own studio or garden practice

• Those who enjoy learning seasonally rather than through one-off courses

Important notes

• This is a digital membership — no physical item will be sent

• Access to the Academy is hosted on a separate platform, and you’ll be asked to create an account to activate your membership

• Membership does not include the 1-Year Professional Natural Dyeing Programme or any other courses, which are booked separately

• Individual events and courses can be booked without membership, if preferred

A way to stay connected, learn alongside others, and return to the work — again and again.

Below you can see what you will need for the year. Please note that these are estimated quantities — the final amount depends on how large or small you like to make your samples, but this should be sufficient for the full course year.

Contents:
• 2.5 m Liona Linen (white, 190 g/m²) or your preferred linen/hemp alternative
• 2.5 m Liolina Linen (natural beige, 280 g/m²) or your preferred linen/hemp alternative
• 5 m Habotai Silk or your preferred silk alternative
• 5 m Organic Bubble Cotton or your preferred cotton alternative
• 2.5 kg Stockholm Yarn or your preferred protein-based yarn

🌿 Please note: This fabric and fibre box is optional for the One-Year Professional Natural Dyeing Course. If you already have a supplier you work with, you’re encouraged to source your own materials. The course is designed to help you build a reference portfolio of samples, and since each fibre takes colour differently, your own choices will make your results uniquely yours.

Multicolour Merino Roving – Fine Merino Wool

Soft, flowing colour and beautifully smooth fibre — this fine Merino roving combines three harmonious shades in each braid, creating depth and gentle transitions in your spun yarns and felted work.

With a micron range of 21–27 microns, these rovings are soft, easy to draft, and versatile across a wide range of textile applications. The finer colourways offer exceptional softness, while slightly higher micron blends provide a touch more structure without sacrificing comfort.

Each colourway has been carefully composed to create movement and subtle variation, whether spun into yarn, felted into textiles, or used in larger fibre art projects.

Fibre details

• Fibre: 100% Merino wool
• Micron count: 21–27 micron (fine to medium-fine)
• Colour: Multicolour (three colours in each roving)
• Form: Roving / Combed top
• Origin: Mulesing-free
• Handle: Soft, smooth, and easy to draft

Acacia Extract
Source: Black Acacia (Acacia mearnsii De Wild)

Acacia Extract is a high-quality, plant-based tannin obtained from the bark of Black Acacia, also known as "Black Wattle" or "Mimosa." Rich in condensed tannins (60-65%), this extract offers excellent versatility for both pre-treatment and dyeing applications.

Main Components:

• Condensed Tannins 60-65%
• Flavonoids (chalcones)

Suggested Quantities (WOF - Weight of Fabric):

• Light Shades: Use 5-10% WOF for beige tones.
• Medium Shades: Use 10-15% WOF for brown hues.
• Dark Shades: Use 15-20% WOF for grey and near-black tones when combined with ferrous sulfate.
• Deep Black Shades: Combine with other tannins (e.g., Tara) and extracts (e.g., Logwood) for rich, dark colours with iron sulfate.

Uses:

• Pre-Treatment of Cellulose Fibres: Acacia extract is highly rich in tannins, perfect for pre-treating cellulosic fibres to enhance mordant fixation and improve colour adhesion. Due to its natural colour, it will impart a slight tint to the fibres.
• Natural Dyeing & Textile Printing of Cellulose: Acacia extract can be used with or without mordant, producing shades ranging from beige and brown to grey and almost black. Combining with other tannins and iron sulfate results in rich, dark shades.
• Other Uses: Ideal for tannery applications, adhesives in the wood industry, and corrosion protection for metals.

The Plant:
Black Acacia, or Acacia mearnsii, is native to southeastern Australia and has become widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including South and East Africa, Brazil, and India. Known as the largest global source of plant tannins, the bark of Black Acacia contains 30-40% tannins (pro-anthocyanidins) and flavonoids, making it a valuable resource for a variety of industries.

Join The Natural Dyers & Growers Academy to share your experiences, join courses and get support from fellow growers and dyers.

Ada and Ardor (2 in 1) ~ single printed pattern** 

Restraint and romance enter into dialogue, in one nuanced yet simple design. Based on the same seamless construction with contiguous sleeves and scooped neckline, this garment can be knitted as Ada (a basic cropped pullover with ribbed edgings), or Ardor (an exuberantly ruffled dress). Features of the two can also be combined, for a versatile range of stylistic options. Which version would you like to make? You may not know until you start knitting. And best of all, you need not decide till half way through the pattern.
Designed by Ailbíona McLochlainn 

MATERIALS & INFO

Yarn 
Apple Oak Fibre Works Softwool [300m /328y) / 100g (3.5oz)]
Ada: 3 (3, 4, 4, 5, 5) skeins
Ardor: 5 (5, 6, 6, 7, 7) skeins
shown in Pastel Twist

Gauge
10cm x 10cm (4” x 4”) = 25 sts x 34 rows, in stockinette, with Needle A 

Needles
Needle A: circular needle, 3.25mm (US 3) in diameter (or as needed to meet gauge)
Needle B: circular needle, 2.75mm (US 2) in diameter (or .5mm [1 US size] smaller than Needle A)

Notions
tapestry needle; stitch markers; scrap yarn 

Sizing  &  Fit
Finished garment measures as follows at chest circumference:
85cm [34”] (90cm [36”], 95cm [38”], 100cm [40”], 110cm [44”], 120cm [48”])
Select size with desired amount of ease and refer to schematic for details. 

Special  Techniques
provisional cast-on, short rows, ruffle

Pattern Support
For help with techniques mentioned in this pattern, visit:

Ravelry: Designs by Ailbíona McLochlainn

**a download link is available on the paper pattern.  For an electronic version only, please see Ravelry: Designs by Ailbíona McLochlainn

New stock will be available from mid summer.

African Tagetes Flowers
Dye Colour: Yellow and Orange | Botanical: Tagetes erecta | Grown & Dried in Ireland

Experience the joy of working with our fully dried African Tagetes flowers, which we personally produce and hand-collect in County Clare, Ireland. These vibrant yellow and orange flowers are packed with natural dye, ideal for colour extraction. While they may not be suitable for flower printing due to their bulkier size, they are perfect for adding a rich, warm tone to your dyeing projects. Limited availability – don't miss out on these unique, locally grown flowers!

Colour Fastness: Poor to Medium

Product Details:

• Quantity: 25g (approximately 15-20 flower heads)
• Grown & Dried in: County Clare, Ireland
• Perfect for: Colour extraction in dyeing projects

Mordant-Based Recipe for Wool (Hot and Cold Dyeing):

1. Ingredients:

   • 25g of African Tagetes Flowers
   • Wool fibre (100g)
   • Alum mordant (10% of the weight of the wool)

2. Instructions (Hot Dyeing):

   • Soak the Tagetes flowers overnight in water.
   • Boil the soaked flowers for 1 hour, then strain out the plant matter.
   • Add the mordanted wool to the dye bath and simmer for 1 hour.
   • Let the wool cool in the dye bath overnight for deeper colour.
   • Rinse the wool gently and let it dry.

3. Instructions (Cold Dyeing):

   • Soak the Tagetes flowers in water for at least 24 hours (preferably 48 hours) to extract the colour.
   • Strain the flowers, then add the mordanted wool to the dye bath.
   • Allow the wool to sit in the cold dye bath for 1-3 days, stirring occasionally.
   • Once satisfied with the colour, rinse the wool gently and let it dry.

Enjoy the vibrant yellow and orange hues that this locally grown Tagetes will bring to your wool fibres, whether you prefer hot or cold dyeing methods!

Join The Natural Dyers & Growers Academy to share your experiences and get support from fellow growers.

AFRICAN MARIGOLD SEEDS – Tagetes erecta

(Traditional Yellow & Orange Dye Plant)
Dye Colour: Yellow & Orange | Produced in: Ireland

Tagetes erecta, commonly known as African Marigold, is a highly productive dye plant producing abundant double flowers in rich shades of yellow and orange. With their distinctive anemone-like form and geometric structure, these blooms are valued for both natural dyeing and eco printing, where they yield warm, golden tones and expressive botanical prints.

Compact and evenly growing, African Marigolds reach around 25–30 cm in height and are well suited to dedicated dye beds, containers, and mixed planting schemes.

Dye fastness: Medium

🌱 Basic Growing Information

Sowing period
Early February to late May

Germination time
5–14 days

Height
25–30 cm (10–12 in)

Preferred location
Full sun with well-drained soil

✂️ Harvesting for Dye & Printing

Harvest flowers regularly throughout the season to encourage continued flowering. Blooms may be used fresh or dried for dyeing and eco printing.

📦 Additional Details

Open-pollinated & organically grown in Ireland
Germination rate: 68%
Approx. 75 seeds per packet
Irish seed licence: IE010713

Please note: Seeds and plants can only be shipped within Europe.

Join The Natural Dyers & Growers Academy to share your experiences and get support from fellow growers.

ALDER CONES – Alnus glutinosa
Natural Dye Material | Rich in Tannins | Origin: Europe

Alder cones, much like alder bark, are rich in natural tannins that yield soft, earthy shades of brown, beige and warm yellow. Depending on the concentration and modifiers used, they can produce both gentle golden hues and deeper nut browns with a pleasant, organic tone.

Naturally high in tannins, alder cones offer medium to good colour fastness and can be used alone or as a tannin base before other plant dyes.

Dyeing Properties

• Colour range: yellow–brown to warm chestnut tones
• Tannin level: moderate to high
• Colour fastness: medium to good
• Use for: wool, silk, cotton, linen and paper

Iron modifiers darken the colour, shifting it towards greys and warm browns.

Basic Recipe

Mordant: Alum 10–15% WOF (weight of fibre)
Dyestuff: Alder cones 100–200% WOF

1. Pour boiling water over the cones and allow to steep for 24–48 hours.

2. Simmer gently for about 2 hours, then strain.

3. Add the pre-mordanted fibre to the dye bath and leave until the desired shade is reached, or soak overnight for stronger results.

4. For deeper tones, add a small amount of iron modifier at the end of the dyeing process and/or leave out the Alum mordant.

In a Nutshell

• Botanical name: Alnus glutinosa
• Form: Whole cones
• Origin: Europe
• Use: Natural dye / tannin source
• Colour fastness: Medium to good
• Storage: Keep dry, cool and away from direct sunlight

An earthy, versatile tannin source producing warm, natural tones — ideal for both standalone dyeing and tannin-rich underlayers.

ALKANET ~ Dye Colour: Purple, grey

Our ALKANET ROOT is harvested in India. Its colour ranges from purple to blue to grey, depending on the extraction method and mordants used. Please note that alcohol extraction is necessary for obtaining true purples.

Colour fastness: Poor

Though we sell alkanet in our shop, I never use it. It isn't lightfast and due to needing a heated alcoholic solution it can become quite pricey when living in Ireland! However, if you would like to give it a go, alkanet is a mordant dye after extraction. 

• To extract 65g of powdered root you need to heat 1litre of 35% alcohol to 40C/104F. 
• Once extracted add the 1litre to a dyebath of 2-8L. 
• Add your mordanted textiles and proceed as usual. 

Join The Natural Dyers & Growers Academy to share your experiences and get support from fellow growers.

ALLO – Handwoven Himalayan Nettle Fabric
Origin: Nepal | Weave: Herringbone | Width: Approx. 65cm

Please note, this is Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia), not European nettle.

Orders of more than one piece will be cut in one continuous length unless directed otherwise.

The humble nettle—often dismissed for its sting—is a true natural treasure. It can be eaten, brewed as tea, used for dyeing, gardening, and, most notably, spun into fibre like flax.

ALLO differs from our FANEEL Nettle fabric with its herringbone weave rather than a straight pattern. Otherwise, they are identical.

The Company:

Made from wild-harvested Himalayan Nettles, this fabric is ethically produced in Nepal, supporting homemakers, women, and families with fair wages and home-based work opportunities.

The Fabric:

Once known as the "linen for the poor" in Europe, nettle fabric was widely used before being replaced by linen and cotton.

In Nepal, Himalayan nettles grow up to 3m tall and are still harvested by hand. The fibres are softened in a wood ash bath overnight, beaten on stone, and rubbed with clay to remove plant debris. Naturally coloured, each piece varies from straw yellow to grey-brown or dark brown. Every handwoven length is unique, offering an eco-friendly, durable textile that insulates body warmth, withstands boiling, and softens beautifully with wear.

In a Nutshell:

• 100% Himalayan nettle
• Hand-spun and handwoven
• Approx. 65cm wide
• Naturally varies in colour
• 40–60°C wash, 10% shrinkage
• Orders cut as one continuous length unless directed otherwise

Uses:

Perfect for making blazers, jackets, trousers, vests, winter clothing, children’s wear, cushions, tablecloths, curtains, bags, upholstery, and embroidery.

History:

Nettle yarn was once a staple fibre in Europe, rivaling flax and hemp. The 18th-century poet Thomas Campbell praised its versatility, from fine table linens to durable fabrics. Durable and sustainable, nettle remains a valuable natural fibre today.

Due to its handmade nature, availability is limited. Please contact us for larger quantities.

ALPACA FINO

100% Superfine Alpaca | DK Weight | Natural Colours | NOTE: The black yarn is dyed, as natural black Alpacas are a rarity.

There is a particular softness unique to superfine alpaca.

Grown in the high altitudes of the Peruvian Andes, alpaca fibre offers exceptional warmth whilst remaining lightweight, breathable, and gentle against the skin. Naturally free of lanolin, it is especially well suited for those sensitive to sheep’s wool.

Alpaca Fino is a classic Peruvian alpaca yarn — a smooth, balanced 4-ply construction spun from 100% superfine alpaca fibre. It has a gentle natural sheen and an even structure that allows stitch definition to emerge clearly whilst maintaining a soft, fluid drape.

Finished garments feel warm yet light, with a relaxed elegance that makes them easy to wear across seasons. Its drape makes it especially suited to seamless garments, flowing forms, and body-skimming pieces.

From alpaca farmer to spinning mill, the entire production takes place within Peru, supporting regional fibre traditions and local employment.

In a nutshell

Fibre: 100% superfine alpaca
Yarn type: 4-ply, Nm 8/4
Weight: DK weight
Length: 200 m per 100 g skein
Skein weight: 100 g
Recommended needle size: 4 mm

Origin: Superfine alpaca from Peru 🇵🇪
Production: Spun and finished in Peru

What it is ideal for

• Sweaters and cardigans
• Shawls and scarves
• Hats and accessories
• Lightweight yet warm garments
• Seamless and draped knitwear

Character

Superfine alpaca is warmer than sheep’s wool whilst remaining lightweight and breathable. Its smooth fibre structure creates softness without prickle, and its natural lustre gives finished garments quiet depth. Free of lanolin, it offers a comfortable alternative for those sensitive to wool.

The balanced 4-ply construction provides strength, durability, and beautiful stitch definition.

Care

Hand wash gently in cool water
Reshape whilst damp
Dry flat

Shade continuity

This yarn is available in a carefully selected range of natural alpaca shades. These colours reflect the natural fleece tones and require no dyeing, apart from black.

If working on a larger project, we recommend ordering sufficient yarn to complete your garment.

Colourways

Available in a range of natural alpaca shades drawn directly from the natural alpaca fleece palette.

NOTE: The black yarn is dyed, as natural black Alpacas are a rarity.

Select your colour from the dropdown menu.

ALPACA PUNO

100% Baby Alpaca | Aran Weight | Undyed Natural Colours

There is a quiet warmth unique to baby alpaca.

Grown in the high altitudes of the Peruvian Andes, baby alpaca fibre offers exceptional softness, warmth, and lightness. Free of lanolin and naturally gentle, it is especially well suited for sensitive skin.

Alpaca Puno is a softly spun, lightly twisted yarn made from 100% baby alpaca fibre. Its airy structure allows tiny pockets of air to form within the knitted fabric, creating exceptional insulation whilst remaining lightweight and breathable.

Smooth and silky on the needles, it allows stitches to settle naturally into place. The finished fabric has a relaxed drape and soft volume, making it especially suited for warm sweaters, scarves, and garments designed for comfort and ease.

From alpaca farmer to spinning mill, the entire production takes place within Peru, supporting regional fibre traditions and local employment.

In a nutshell

Fibre: 100% baby alpaca
Yarn type: softly spun, lightly twisted (Nm 2/2)
Weight: Chunky 
Length: approx. 100m per 100 g skein
Skein weight: 100 g
Recommended needle size: 5–6 mm

Origin: Baby alpaca fibre from Peru 🇵🇪
Production: Spun and finished in Peru

What it is ideal for

• Warm sweaters and cardigans
• Hats, scarves, and shawls
• Winter garments
• Soft, insulating knitwear
• Comfortable everyday pieces

Character

Baby alpaca is one of the warmest natural fibres available whilst remaining lightweight and breathable. Its fine fibre diameter and absence of guard hairs create exceptional softness. The gently spun structure creates loft and insulation, producing garments that are warm without weight.

Naturally free of lanolin, it is well suited for those sensitive to sheep’s wool.

Care

Hand wash gently in cool water
Reshape whilst damp
Dry flat

Shade continuity

This yarn is available in a carefully selected range of natural alpaca shades. These colours reflect the natural fleece tones and require no dyeing.

If working on a larger project, we recommend ordering sufficient yarn to complete your garment.

Colourways

Available in a range of natural, undyed alpaca shades drawn directly from the natural fleece palette.

Select your colour from the dropdown menu.

ALPACA QUITO

100% Superfine Alpaca | Aran Weight | Natural Colours | NOTE: The black yarn is dyed, as natural black Alpacas are a rarity.

There is a particular comfort in softly spun alpaca. 

Grown in the high altitudes of the Peruvian Andes, superfine alpaca fibre offers exceptional warmth whilst remaining lightweight, breathable, and gentle against the skin. Naturally free of lanolin, it is especially well suited for those sensitive to sheep’s wool.

Alpaca Quito is a softly spun single-ply yarn made from 100% superfine alpaca fibre. Its airy structure allows the knitted fabric to form countless small air pockets, creating exceptional insulation whilst maintaining lightness and drape.

Smooth and silky on the needles, it moves effortlessly whilst knitting and settles into garments with a relaxed, natural flow. Its softness and buoyancy make it especially suited to warm sweaters, scarves, and garments designed for comfort and ease.

From alpaca farmer to spinning mill, the entire production takes place within Peru, supporting regional fibre traditions and local employment.

In a nutshell

Fibre: 100% superfine alpaca
Yarn type: single ply (Nm 1.2/1)
Weight: Aran weight
Length: 120m per 100 g skein
Skein weight: 100 g
Recommended needle size: 5–6 mm

Origin: Superfine alpaca from Peru 🇵🇪
Production: Spun and finished in Peru

What it is ideal for

• Warm sweaters and cardigans
• Hats, scarves, and shawls
• Winter garments
• Soft and insulating knitwear
• Seamless and draped garments

Character

This softly spun single-ply yarn creates exceptional loft and insulation whilst remaining lightweight. Superfine alpaca offers natural warmth, softness, and breathability. Free of lanolin, it is especially comfortable for sensitive skin.

Its gently spun structure allows finished garments to retain softness, warmth, and natural drape.

Care

Hand wash gently in cool water
Reshape whilst damp
Dry flat

Shade continuity

This yarn is available in a carefully selected range of natural alpaca shades. These colours reflect the natural fleece tones and require no dyeing, apart from black.

If working on a larger project, we recommend ordering sufficient yarn to complete your garment.

Colourways

Available in a range of natural  alpaca shades drawn directly from the natural fleece palette.

NOTE: The black yarn is dyed, as natural black Alpacas are a rarity.

Select your colour from the dropdown menu.

ANNA: WOOL & PLANT-FIBRE SOCKS – NATURALLY DURABLE WARMTH

55 % untreated sheep wool | 30 % untreated alpaca wool | 12 % unbleached cotton | 3 % hemp

Cuff: Same blend with a hair‑thin elastic thread (cuff only)

A favourite for cool seasons - Anna is our upgraded mid-weight sock, combining the breathable warmth of wool with the durability of cotton and hemp. 

🌿 Natural Comfort in Every Thread

Why they’re special
• Medium-weight blend for year-round use
• All fibres are unbleached and untreated
• Clever construction: durable inside, warm outside
• Naturally breathable, odour-resistant and soft
• Plastic-free, biodegradable, and European-made
• Sizes EU 36–47 ~ see chart for US/UK size conversions
• Cuff contains <1% elastic ~ no squeezing or slipping

🧼 Care – Long-lasting natural fibres
• Wash by hand or on delicate 30 °C cycle with pH-neutral wool detergent
• Do not bleach, tumble dry, dry clean, or iron
• Line dry in the shade or lay flat
• Alternate wears to extend life; no need to wash after every use
• Store with cedar or lavender to deter moths
• Smooth footwear helps prevent early wear

ANNA LONG: KNEE-HIGH WOOL SOCKS – NATURAL WARMTH & DURABILITY

55 % untreated sheep wool | 30 % untreated alpaca wool | 12 % unbleached cotton | 3 % hemp
Cuff: Same blend with a hair-thin elastic thread (<1%, cuff only)

Anna Long is the taller sibling of our classic Anna sock - naturally warm, beautifully breathable, and designed for long-lasting wear. Crafted from sheep wool and alpaca for insulation, and strengthened with cotton and hemp for durability, these knee-high socks offer full lower-leg coverage with a soft, resilient finish. Perfect for boots, winter walks or staying cosy at home.

🌿 Natural Comfort in Every Thread

Why They’re Special

• Knee-high length for extra warmth and layering
• All fibres unbleached, untreated and natural
• Breathable, odour-resistant and moisture-managing
• Cuff contains <1% elastic—gentle hold with no constriction
• European-made in small batches
• Plastic-free packaging and compostable mailer
• Sizes EU 35–47 ~ see chart for US/UK conversions

🧦 Fit & Sizing

• Knee-high (just below the knee)
• Perfect in boots, wellies, or for home warmth
• Sizes EU 35–47

🧼 Care – Long-lasting Natural Fibres

• Hand wash or delicate 30 °C cycle with pH-neutral wool detergent
• Do not bleach, tumble dry, dry clean, or iron
• Dry flat or line dry in the shade
• Alternate wears to allow fibres to rest
• Smooth insoles prevent internal abrasion
• Store with lavender or cedar to deter moths
• Keep feet smooth to avoid snagging

MARIA: NATURALLY DYED WOOL & ALPACA SOCKS – COSY BED & HOME COMFORT

65 % sheep wool | 35 % alpaca wool
Cuff: Same blend with a thin elastic thread (<1%, cuff only)

Maria is our thickest, softest sock - designed for comfort, not abrasion. Naturally warm and beautifully fluffy, these socks are perfect for relaxing at home, keeping toes cosy on cool evenings, or wearing to bed. Each pair is dyed in-house using plants like madder root and weld, creating gentle botanical tones on a soft wool–alpaca blend.

These are not hard-wearing outdoor socks. Maria shines where softness matters most: quiet mornings, evenings on the sofa, or slipping into bed with warm feet.

🌿 Natural Comfort in Every Thread

🌸 Botanical Dyes & Colour Notes

🌱 Why They’re Special

• Thick, fluffy and soothing - ideal as bed socks or indoor relaxation socks
• Naturally dyed using plants - no synthetics or heavy-metal mordants
• Gentle on the skin with a soft, breathable wool–alpaca blend
• Fully natural and biodegradable (once elastic is removed)
• Made in Europe in small batches
• Pairs beautifully with our naturally dyed legwarmers
• Sizes EU 35–47 ~ see chart for US/UK conversions

🧼 Care – Preserve the Colour & Fibre

WASH
• Hand wash or delicate 30 °C wool cycle with pH-neutral detergent
• Avoid bleach, enzymes, softeners, vinegar, bicarb or tumble drying

DRY
• Line dry in the shade or lay flat

CARE TIPS
• Rotate wears every 2–3 days to let fibres recover
• Store with cedar or lavender to deter moths
• Avoid wearing inside rough slippers or shoes—these socks are soft but not abrasion-resistant

🧶 Maria Wool & Alpaca Socks – Thick, Undyed, Natural

65 % untreated sheep wool | 35 % untreated alpaca wool

Cuff: Same blend with a single hair-thin elastic thread (in cuff only)

Maria is our softest and warmest sock—thick, fluffy, and made from completely natural fibres. Available in four undyed fleece tones (white, beige, brown, grey), these socks are perfect for gentle, cosy use: lounging at home, wearing to bed, or keeping warm indoors through the colder months.

Please note: these socks are not designed for hard-wearing outdoor use or hiking. For longer wear, choose smoother footwear and rotate pairs between uses.

🌿 Natural Fleece Colour Palette

🧦 Best Use
• Ideal for indoor wear, gentle walking, and bedtime warmth
• Not suitable for heavy-duty wear, hiking or abrasive shoes

🧵 Why they’re special
• Thick and cosy wool-alpaca blend
• Naturally undyed and chemical-free
• Breathable and odour-resistant
• <1% elastic in cuff only – stays up gently
• Sizes EU 35–47 – see chart in photos for US/UK size conversion
• Plastic-free packaging – compostable mailer
• Made in Europe in small batches

🧼 Care
• Hand wash or delicate 30 °C cycle with wool-safe detergent
• No bleach, softeners, vinegar, tumble dry, or dry clean
• Lay flat or line dry in the shade
• Rotate pairs every 2–3 days to let fibres rest
• Store with lavender or cedar to deter moths
• Use in shoes with smooth interiors to prolong life

♻️ Elastic is only used in the cuff. We welcome returns of worn-out socks for elastic removal and polymer recycling.

MARIA LONG: KNEE-HIGH WOOL & ALPACA SOCKS – NATURAL COLOURS & COSY WARMTH

65 % sheep wool | 35 % alpaca wool
Cuff: Same blend with a hair-thin elastic thread (<1 %, cuff only)
Sizes EU 35–47 ~ see chart for US/UK conversions

Maria Long is the knee-high version of our softest and fluffiest Maria socks — naturally insulating, breathable and beautifully gentle on the skin. Designed for comfort rather than abrasion, these thick wool–alpaca socks are perfect for wearing indoors, keeping warm in bed, or layering under boots on cold winter days.

🌾 Undyed Natural Colour Options

Please note: Maria Long socks are cosy but not hard-wearing. They shine in quiet moments — mornings at home, evenings by the fire, or slipping into bed with warm toes.

🌿 Natural Comfort in Every Thread

Why They’re Special

• Knee-high length for extra warmth and coverage
• Thick, fluffy texture — ideal for cold seasons
• Naturally breathable and odour-resistant
• Undyed, fully natural fibres (biodegradable except minimal cuff elastic)
• Gentle hold at the cuff with <1% elastic
• Sizes EU 35–47 ~ see chart for conversions
• Made in Italy in small, mindful batches
• Plastic-free, compostable packaging

🧼 Care – Keep Them Cosy

WASH
• Hand wash or delicate 30 °C wool cycle with pH-neutral detergent
• Avoid bleach, softeners, enzymes, vinegar or bicarb

DRY
• Lay flat or line dry in the shade
• Do not tumble dry, iron or dry clean

CARE TIPS
• Rotate wears every 2–3 days to let fibres recover
• Ensure smooth boot/shoe interiors to prevent snags
• Store with cedar or lavender to deter moths
• Naturally softens and relaxes slightly with wear

SARA: HEAVY-KNIT WOOL & PLANT-FIBRE SOCKS – NATURAL WARMTH & DURABILITY

45 % untreated sheep wool | 25 % untreated alpaca wool | 28 % unbleached cotton | 2 % hemp
Cuff: Same blend with a hair-thin elastic thread (<1%, cuff only)
Sizes EU 35–47 ~ see chart for US/UK conversions

Sara is a durable sock - a heavy-knit design made for warmth, comfort and lasting wear. Untreated sheep wool and alpaca provide natural insulation, while cotton and hemp add strength, breathability, and everyday resilience.

Everything touching your skin is fully natural fibre, with only a minimal elastic thread in the cuff to keep the sock in place.

🌿 Natural Comfort in Every Thread

Why They’re Special

• Heavy-knit construction — warm, breathable and robust
• Wool & alpaca for warmth and insulation
• Cotton & hemp for durability and strength
• Cuff contains <1% elastic — gentle stay-up hold
• Naturally breathable, odour-resistant
• Sizes EU 35–47 ~ see photos for sizing conversions
• European-made in small batches
• Shipped plastic-free in a compostable mailer

🧼 Care – Long-lasting Natural Fibres

WASH
• Hand wash preferred, or delicate 30 °C wool cycle
• Use pH-neutral wool detergent
• Avoid bleach, tumble drying, dry cleaning and ironing

DRY
• Lay flat or line dry in the shade

🧦 Make Them Last

• Rotate wears every 2–3 days to let fibres recover
• Ensure shoe interiors are smooth
• Keep toenails neat to prevent snags
• Store with cedar or lavender to deter moths

⚠️ Note: A fine elastic thread is used only in the cuff.
If you have sensitivities to synthetic fibres, please contact us before ordering.

SARA LONG: KNEE-HIGH WOOL & PLANT-FIBRE SOCKS – HEAVY KNIT WARMTH & DURABILITY

45 % untreated sheep wool | 25 % untreated alpaca wool | 28 % unbleached cotton | 2 % hemp
Cuff: Same blend with a hair-thin elastic thread (<1%, cuff only)
Sizes EU 35–47 ~ see chart for US/UK conversions

Sara Long is the knee-high version of our best-selling Sara sock — made from the same robust, intelligently balanced fibre blend for serious warmth and everyday durability. Wool and alpaca offer natural insulation, while cotton and hemp add strength, breathability, and long-term comfort.

Designed to cover the lower leg without squeezing, Sara Long is especially suited to boots, cold-weather layering, and anyone seeking a natural-fibre sock with dependable warmth.

🌿 Natural Comfort in Every Thread

Why They’re Special

• Knee-high coverage for warmth and layering
• Heavy-knit, structured construction for cold-weather comfort
• Wool–alpaca provides breathable insulation
• Cotton and hemp add durability and stability
• Plastic-free body with <1% elastic only in the cuff
• Naturally breathable, odour-resistant
• Sizes EU 35–47 ~ see chart for conversions
• Made in Europe in small, mindful batches
• Shipped plastic-free in a compostable mailer

🧦 Fit & Construction

• Heavy-knit design for warmth and structure
• Balanced natural-fibre blend: wool/alpaca outside, cotton/hemp reinforcing
• Gentle stay-up cuff with minimal elastic (<1%)
• Covers the foot and lower leg without squeezing

🧼 Care – Keep Them Going Strong

WASH
• Hand wash or gentle 30 °C wool cycle with pH-neutral wool detergent
• Avoid bleach, softeners, vinegar and optical brighteners

DRY
• Lay flat or line dry in the shade
• Do not tumble dry, iron or dry clean

🧦 Tips to Extend Lifespan

• Rotate wears every 24–48 hours to let fibres recover
• Wash inside-out to minimise friction and pilling
• Keep shoe interiors smooth and toenails trimmed
• Store with cedar or lavender to deter moths

⚠️ Note: Contains a fine elastic thread in the cuff only.
If you have sensitivities to synthetic fibres, please contact us before ordering.

ALPEN

Goat Hair & Wool | Heritage Carpet & Weaving Yarn

Alpen is a strong, heritage yarn designed for durability, structure and longevity.

Spun from a balanced blend of goat hair and wool, it offers exceptional strength and resilience whilst maintaining enough flexibility to work comfortably on the loom or in handcraft.

Traditionally used for carpets, bags, and structural textiles, this yarn reflects a long history of utilitarian fibre craft.

The goat hair contributes strength, abrasion resistance, and durability, whilst wool provides cohesion and flexibility.

Spun in Switzerland from carefully sourced fibres, Alpen is ideal for textile work requiring stability, structure, and endurance.

In a nutshell

Fibre: 50% goat hair, 50% pure wool
Yarn type: 2-ply (Nm 1.5/2)
Weight: Heavy / structural yarn
Length: approx. 75 m per 100 g
Form: approx. 250 g skein
Recommended needle size: approx. 5 mm

Origin:
• Goat hair from China
• Wool from England

Production: Spun in Switzerland 🇨🇭
Colour: Natural undyed tones

What it is ideal for

• Weaving
• Carpets and rugs
• Bags
• Wall hangings
• Structural textile work
• Durable textile applications

Character

Goat hair provides exceptional durability and resistance to wear. Wool contributes flexibility and cohesion.

The result is a yarn designed for strength, longevity, and traditional textile craft.

Care

Hand wash gently if required
Dry flat

This yarn is designed for durable textile use.

Shade continuity

This yarn is undyed. Natural variation between skeins reflects the fibre origin.

ALUM MORDANT (Potassium Aluminum Sulphate Dodecahydrate)
~ Necessary for most plant dyes to ensure colour fastness ~

Alum is considered the safest and least harmful mordant used in natural dyeing. It helps fix dyes to fibres and enhances colour retention. What many don't realise is that Alum occurs naturally in nature, and some plants, such as Lycopodium, contain natural Alum.

Mordanting Cellulose Fibres

For mordanting cellulose fibres, please refer to our blog for detailed recipes:

• How to Mordant Linen and Cotton Fabrics Successfully – AppleOak FibreWorks

• How to Mordant Linen and Cotton Successfully Without Tannins – AppleOak FibreWorks

Basic Recipe for Wool

Ingredients:

• 10%-20% Alum (based on the Dry Weight of Fibre - D.W.F.)

• Wool (or other protein fibres)

• Water

• Optional: 5% Cream of Tartar (for hot mordanting)

Instructions:

Cold Mordanting:

1. Weigh your dry textile material.

2. Soak the dry material in water.

3. Dissolve Alum in hot water and add to a mordanting pot filled with water.

4. Add pre-soaked wool and let sit for 24-72 hours.

Hot Mordanting:

1. Dissolve Alum in hot water and add to a mordanting pot filled with water.

2. Add 5% Cream of Tartar to slow down the mordant uptake.

3. Add wool and bring to 80°C for 1 hour.

4. Let cool, then rinse and dye or dry for later use.

Alum is ideal for protein fibres like wool and silk, ensuring vibrant and lasting colour results.

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