As I sit here with my morning coffee adding a few rows to my newest cozy cardigan, I can’t help but feel grateful for wool—the unsung hero of our handmade wardrobes. If you’ve ever paused mid-stitch to wonder why wool, let’s chat.

This fiber has been a constant companion through centuries, and for good reason. Wool isn’t just yarn; it’s a story, a connection to nature, and a little piece of magic we get to work with every day. Let me share a few reasons why wool is the ultimate choice for your next sweater project—and why I’m so passionate about my small-batch yarn, Empire Estate, produced and spun locally here in New York State.

2. Durability: For Sweaters That Last Beyond a Few Seasons

Knitting a sweater is a labor of love—so shouldn’t your yarn love you back? Wool is incredibly strong and elastic, which means it holds up to wear and tear (and toddlers tugging at your sleeve). Sweaters knit from real 100% non-superwash wool keep their shape, resisting that dreaded “droop” that happens with synthetic blends.

And here’s the best part: with the right care, wool sweaters are heirloom-worthy. A handmade sweater can live a full, rich life—passed down, cherished, and mended, just like our favorite traditions.

4. Knitting with Intention: A Connection to Nature and Community

There’s something deeply grounding about working with wool. When you hold it in your hands, you feel its history, its origin, and the care that went into producing it. It’s more than just a craft—it’s a conversation with nature and the farmers who nurture it.

When you knit with wool, especially locally sourced yarn, you’re part of a story that celebrates slow living, sustainable practices, and the joy of creating something beautiful with your own two hands.

1. Keeps You Warm (Without Overheating): Because Winter Calls for Wool

Let’s face it: January is when we really appreciate a sweater that actually keeps us warm. Wool is nature’s best insulator—it traps heat like a cozy hug, even on the chilliest days. But here’s the magic: unlike synthetic fibers that can leave you feeling stuffy, wool is breathable, wicking away moisture and preventing you from overheating.

And if you’re dreaming of warmer days while planning your next project, wool has your back there, too. Its temperature-regulating properties mean that a wool sweater will transition beautifully into spring. Start knitting now, and come April, you’ll have a lightweight-yet-cozy sweater that’s perfect for cool mornings or breezy afternoons.

3. Sustainability: Because the Planet Deserves Love, Too

When you choose wool, you’re choosing a natural, renewable fiber. Wool is biodegradable and has a much smaller environmental footprint than petroleum-based synthetics.

I’ve taken this one step further with my Empire Estate line, which is spun from wool sourced exclusively from small farms in New York State. By supporting local wool producers, we’re celebrating the rich agricultural traditions of our region while helping preserve sustainable farming practices.

Empire Estate, is spun at Battenkill Fibers, a small, locally operated mill in New York State ensuring that every skein carries a thoughtful, personal touch—from the sheep to your needles.

Ready to Start Your Next Woolly Adventure?

Whether you’re new to wool or a lifelong devotee, there’s always more to love about this incredible fiber. If you’re looking for something special for your next project, take a peek at my Empire Estate yarn collection where every skein showcases the incredible wool produced from farms right here in our backyard.