A Harmless Guide to Wool: Make It Last, Love It Longer
In a fashion landscape where trend cycles are measured in weeks or sometimes even days, the idea of wearing something that’s built to last can feel almost subversive. In today’s age, fashion is often centred around fleeting novelty rather than lasting quality. Yet, amidst the buzz of micro-trends and algorithm driven aesthetics, there are still materials that embody a slower, more resilient approach. At Project Harmless, we embrace this philosophy by using 100% wool, for our fashion accessories, recognising its inherent durability, versatility, and sustainability. Let's look at how we can make wool last longer.
Is Wool a Sustainable Material?
According to a recent research study, 100% Merino wool fabrics can biodegrade by 95% after just 15 weeks of burial in soil, though the rate can vary depending on soil, climate, and specific wool characteristics. This data is a testament to wool's ability to naturally decompose and its natural sustainability. As Woolmark highlights, wool is also part of the natural carbon cycle. When buried wool contributes positively back to the earth, acting like a natural fertiliser by slowly releasing valuable nutrients and carbon back into the soil.
In contrast, synthetic fibres such as polyester can take over 100 years to degrade and are a major source of microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems. These materials do not re-enter natural cycles and persist in landfills or oceans indefinitely. Even cotton, often marketed as a sustainable option, requires an average of 10,000 litres of water to produce just one kilogram of fibre. Wool, on the other hand, is a renewable fibre shorn from sheep annually, with minimal need for chemical processing, making it an ideal material for those embracing slow fashion and conscious consumption.
At Project Harmless, our wool accessories are designed and made in Scotland, where we collaborate with skilled artisans and local manufacturers who share our values of quality and low-impact production. By keeping our production local, we reduce transport emissions and support ethical, small-scale manufacturing rooted in Scottish craftsmanship.
Embracing wool, therefore, is a conscious choice for a more sustainable and responsible approach to fashion. To maximise its lifespan, understanding how to care for your wool is key.
How to Look After Wool and Make it Last?
When it comes to caring for your wool, less is more. With just a little mindful attention, you can significantly extend the life of your wool items, ensuring they remain in good condition for years to come.
The best way to protect and care for wool is to wash it as little as possible. While this might sound counterintuitive, wool has natural anti-bacterial and odour resistant properties, making frequent washing largely unnecessary.
Instead, simply hang your wool items outside to air out or give them a gentle steam to refresh them. It's also good practice to let your wool items rest between wears, allowing the natural fibers time to return to their original shape. If you wish to wash them, wipe clean first, and if necessary, hand wash in cold water but make sure not to tumble dry.
Wool as a Symbol of Slow, Conscious Fashion
Wool, with its timeless appeal and exceptional environmental credentials, stands out as a material truly aligned with our ‘harmless’ philosophy. At Project Harmless, we're proud to champion wool, offering accessories that don't just look good, but do good, inviting you to embrace a longer lasting and less harmful approach to style.
Discover more of our slow fashion collection proudly crafted in Scotland from 100% wool.
