Wool, an animal fiber composed of keratin, has been used for millennia to produce various textiles. Woolen cloth is a refined fabric, obtained through techniques such as fulling and woolen weaving, and should not be confused with "bed linen."
The History of Woolen Cloth
Until the mid-19th century, textiles were the dominant manufacturing industry in Western Europe, with wool and its main derivative, broadcloth, at the heart of this activity until the 18th century. The term "wool" comes from the Latin lana, and "cloth" from the Late Latin drappus. In the Middle Ages, broadcloth was considered a luxury item.
The Properties of Woolen Cloth
- Lightweight: Wool cloth is valued for its lightness, making it comfortable to wear and easy to drape.
- Highly Tear and Cut Resistant: Due to its robust properties, wool cloth is durable and resists physical damage well.
- Chemical Resistant but Acid Sensitive: It offers good resistance to common chemicals, although it can be affected by strong acids.