Sustainability with Irish-Raised Wool

While Ireland is full of sheep, sadly, the wool from Irish flocks is being used less and less. There are several reasons for this — one major factor is that many local wools don’t have the same softness as imported Merino wool. As a result, farmers receive very little for their fibre. In fact, it often costs more to shear a sheep than the farmer earns from selling the wool — if they can sell it at all. Shockingly, Irish wool is frequently treated as a waste product.

This decline in the use of wool began after the rise of polyester clothing and fast fashion, when synthetic fibres became cheaper and more convenient to produce. As these man-made materials flooded the market, demand for natural fibres like wool dropped dramatically — and their value followed.

Using locally sourced materials can make a real difference — both for the environment and for the local economy. By supporting Irish farmers and working with what’s readily available, we can reduce transport emissions and help create a more sustainable supply chain.

Here at FeltHappiness Hats, I’m committed to increasing the amount of Irish-raised fibre in my creations — striving for greater sustainability while still crafting the unique, joyful hats you love.

As of 2023, every hat in my new collections* includes at least one layer of Irish-raised wool. My most recent series, The SeaSun Cyan Collection, is made primarily — and proudly — from Irish wool.

 

*Note: Certain items, such as cowls, still require fine Merino fibres to ensure they’re soft and comfortable when worn close to the skin.