Woodnote Aran is baa ram ewe's celebration of three British sheep breeds in a single yarn — 34% Bluefaced Leicester, 33% Masham, and 33% Merino, sourced and spun in the United Kingdom. Bluefaced Leicester contributes lustre and softness; Masham brings character and durability; Merino adds the next-to-skin comfort that makes the yarn wearable as well as beautiful. The result is an Aran weight yarn that is warm, sturdy, and genuinely pleasurable to work with — the kind of yarn that earns its place in a project rather than simply appearing in it.
The colourway palette takes its cues from English woodland — the names (Mouse Grey, Conker Brown, Fox Orange, Badger Grey, Creek Blue, Toad Green, Blackcurrant Purple, Puddle Blue, Honeybee Yellow, Hare Cream, Willow Green, Rosehip Red) tell you exactly what register you are working in. Natural, considered, and quietly distinctive. Suitable for cold weather garments, accessories, and wraps. The Aran weight works at 19 stitches to 10cm on 4.5–5.5mm needles, giving a fabric that has substance without being heavy.
100% of baa ram ewe's wool comes from non-mulesed sheep.
- Composition: 34% Bluefaced Leicester (UK), 33% Masham (UK), 33% Merino (Spain)
- Weight: Aran
- Hank size: 100g
- Approximate meterage: 154m / 168yds per 100g
- Suggested needle size: 4.5–5.5mm
- Tension: 19 sts × 24 rows to 10cm on 5mm needles
- Care: Hand wash, lay flat to dry
- Sourced and spun in the United Kingdom
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this yarn different from a standard Aran?
The breed-specific blend is the defining characteristic. Most Aran yarns use a generic wool blend or a single breed; Woodnote Aran uses three distinct British breeds selected for what each one contributes — Bluefaced Leicester for lustre and softness, Masham for character and durability, and Merino for next-to-skin comfort. The result has a texture and depth that a commodity Aran yarn does not.
Is it soft enough to wear next to the skin?
Yes — the Merino content and the careful breed selection make it comfortable for garments worn directly against skin, including sweaters and scarves. It is not a super-fine merino, so very sensitive skin should swatch first, but it is considerably softer than typical British wool at this weight.
What projects suit Woodnote Aran?
Sweaters, cardigans, hats, cowls, scarves, wraps, and accessories. The Aran weight makes it ideal for cold-weather garments that need warmth without excessive bulk. It is also well suited to textured stitch patterns — cables and bobbles work beautifully in this blend.
How much do I need for a typical project?
A standard adult sweater typically requires 800–1200g at Aran weight depending on size and style. A hat uses approximately 100g; a cowl 200–300g; a pair of mittens 100–150g.
How should I care for it?
Hand wash in cool water, lay flat to dry. Do not tumble dry or wring.