Zwartbles Marls Fingering
80/20% zwartbles/alpaca

Zwartbles wool, with its medium to fine texture and good crimp, is versatile for spinning and felting. It’s commonly used for hand-knitted garments like sweaters and scarves, as well as blankets and rugs due to its warmth and durability. The unique color, often black or brown with sun-bleached tips, also makes it popular for natural, undyed textile projects.

Zwartbles are a striking breed originating from the Friesland region of the Netherlands, known for their black or brown fleece with sun-bleached tips, a white blaze on the face, two to four white socks, and a white-tipped tail. They’re large, polled (hornless) sheep, with ewes averaging 85 kg (187 lb) and rams 100 kg (220 lb). Historically used for milk, meat, and wool, they’re now valued for their docile nature, easy lambing, and excellent mothering skills. First imported to the UK in the early 1990s, they’ve adapted well to various climates and are popular with smallholders and commercial farmers alike. Their wool, medium to fine with good crimp, is great for knitting, spinning and felting.