Why Choose Wool?
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.
Meg with John Lemondes of Elly’s Acres Farm, the wool producer for Empire Estate at the New York State Sheep & Wool Festival October 2024.
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.
Ontario is a stunning dark teal and blue colorway that mirrors the deep, serene waters of Lake Ontario. Its cool, blended tones evoke the tranquility of the lake's vast expanse, perfect for creating pieces that capture the natural beauty and calm of the shoreline.
THE YARN
DK Weight
100% NYS Rambouillet Wool - Non-Superwash
250 Yards / 100 grams
Empire Estate carries a charming, rustic touch of authenticity, with tiny whispers of hay and bits of vegetable material spun gently into its fibers. These natural inclusions remind you of its origins, evoking visions of sun-dappled fields and the peaceful rhythm of countryside life. It’s more than just yarn—it’s a connection to the earth, a cozy embrace of nature's imperfections that tell a story of hand-sheared wool and old-world craftsmanship. Perfect for those who love the simple beauty of rural living, this yarn invites you to create pieces that feel organic, grounded, and beautifully tied to the pastoral landscape.
Domestically produced from sheep to skein in New York State. The wool was produced by Elly's Acres Farms in Jamesville, and spun by Battenkill Fibers in Greenwich, NY. Part of the NYS Grown & Certified program and a great way to support US and local wool!
Designed with garments in mind, Empire Estate is ideal for a variety of projects including pullovers, hats, mittens, and scarves.
See my project inspiration list Here.
Not enough quantity in stock for your project? Get in touch! I can typically have an order dyed just for you in just 2-3 weeks.
Redhaven is a delicate light peach tonal colorway inspired by the sweet, sun-kissed New York peaches that bear its name. Its soft, warm hue will bring a touch of orchard freshness to your knitting and crochet projects.
THE YARN
DK Weight
100% NYS Rambouillet Wool - Non-Superwash
250 Yards / 100 grams
Empire Estate carries a charming, rustic touch of authenticity, with tiny whispers of hay and bits of vegetable material spun gently into its fibers. These natural inclusions remind you of its origins, evoking visions of sun-dappled fields and the peaceful rhythm of countryside life. It’s more than just yarn—it’s a connection to the earth, a cozy embrace of nature's imperfections that tell a story of hand-sheared wool and old-world craftsmanship. Perfect for those who love the simple beauty of rural living, this yarn invites you to create pieces that feel organic, grounded, and beautifully tied to the pastoral landscape.
Domestically produced from sheep to skein in New York State. The wool was produced by Elly's Acres Farms in Jamesville, and spun by Battenkill Fibers in Greenwich, NY. Part of the NYS Grown & Certified program and a great way to support US and local wool!
Designed with garments in mind, Empire Estate is ideal for a variety of projects including pullovers, hats, mittens, and scarves.
See my project inspiration list Here.
Not enough quantity in stock for your project? Get in touch! I can typically have an order dyed just for you in just 2-3 weeks.
Midnight Fig is a romantically dark tonal colorway that borders between eggplant purple and warm chocolate brown.
THE YARN
DK Weight
100% NYS Rambouillet Wool - Non-Superwash
250 Yards / 100 grams
Domestically produced from sheep to skein in New York State. The wool was produced by Elly's Acres Farms in Jamesville, and spun by Battenkill Fibers in Greenwich, NY. Part of the NYS Grown & Certified program and a great way to support US and local wool!
Designed with garments in mind, Empire Estate is ideal for a variety of projects including pullovers, hats, mittens, and scarves.
See my project inspiration list Here.
Not enough quantity in stock for your project? Get in touch! I can typically have an order dyed just for you in 2-3 weeks.
Empire Estate carries a charming, rustic touch of authenticity, with tiny whispers of hay and bits of vegetable material spun gently into its fibers. These natural inclusions remind you of its origins, evoking visions of sun-dappled fields and the peaceful rhythm of countryside life. It’s more than just yarn—it’s a connection to the earth, a cozy embrace of nature's imperfections that tell a story of hand-sheared wool and old-world craftsmanship. Perfect for those who love the simple beauty of rural living, this yarn invites you to create pieces that feel organic, grounded, and beautifully tied to the pastoral landscape.
Pumpkin Spice is a rich, rusty orange colorway that captures the warmth and coziness of the iconic fall beverage. Its vibrant, spiced hue evokes the essence of autumn, perfect for creating pieces that are both comforting and festive.
THE YARN
DK Weight
100% NYS Rambouillet Wool - Non-Superwash
250 Yards / 100 grams
Domestically produced from sheep to skein in New York State. The wool was produced by Elly's Acres Farms in Jamesville, and spun by Battenkill Fibers in Greenwich, NY. Part of the NYS Grown & Certified program and a great way to support US and local wool!
Designed with garments in mind, Empire Estate is ideal for a variety of projects including pullovers, hats, mittens, and scarves.
See my project inspiration list Here.
Not enough quantity in stock for your project? Get in touch! I can typically have an order dyed just for you in just 2-3 weeks.
Empire Estate carries a charming, rustic touch of authenticity, with tiny whispers of hay and bits of vegetable material spun gently into its fibers. These natural inclusions remind you of its origins, evoking visions of sun-dappled fields and the peaceful rhythm of countryside life. It’s more than just yarn—it’s a connection to the earth, a cozy embrace of nature's imperfections that tell a story of hand-sheared wool and old-world craftsmanship. Perfect for those who love the simple beauty of rural living, this yarn invites you to create pieces that feel organic, grounded, and beautifully tied to the pastoral landscape.