Stages Of Production
Ever since the company was formed in 1861 we have had full control over all the process. It all starts with the raw wool.
Raw Wool and Blending
Raw Wool and Blending: Raw wool is delivered to the blending. Our wool is predominantly from Australia, South Africa and New Zealand. We only buy our Wool from proven sources. To make our fabrics we need the best natural raw material. Here we combine the different types to get the right blend for the end fabric.
Carding and Spinning
Carding and Spinning: The blended wool is then further mixed producing a more even blend. The end result of this process is a Carded Sliver – A twistless thread ready for spinning. The carded silver is drawn out and twisted to produce a yarn suitable for weaving.
Warping and Weaving
Warping and Weaving: The individual threads are woven (interlaced) together to form the cloth. There are two sets of threads in the cloth. The warp, which runs throughout the cloth. The weft, which runs across the cloth.
Scouring and Milling
Scouring and Milling: The woven cloth is scoured (washed) to remove the wool grease and any dirt that may be on the cloth. It is then milled (felted) to produce a firm fabric where the individual threads are no longer visible. This is the most important process in a woollen cloth, as it is from this point forward the end finish is determined. Get it wrong here and the cloth could be ruined.
Dyeing & Finishing
Dyeing: Here the colour is added to the cloth. This is done by running the cloth around a machine with the dye and boiling water until the dyeing is finished.
Finishing: First the fabric is dried. The cloth is then raised (brushed) to produce a soft pile, this is then cropped (cut back) to give an even finish. It can then be pressed if required or left natural.