Suffolk Sheep

Suffolk sheep have evolved from crossing a Southdown ram with a Norfolk Horn ewe, resulting in a breed prized for its dense, fine fleece. Known for their striking black faces and feet, Suffolk sheep produce wool that is both strong and soft, making it perfect for durable, high-quality knitting and crochet projects. Their fleece grows densely, providing excellent insulation and structure, ideal for sweaters, scarves, and blankets.

Jacob Sheep

Jacob sheep are easily recognised for their naturally patterned fleece, which can range from creamy whites to deep blacks. Some Jacob sheep feature two horns, while others grow four, adding to their distinctive appearance. Their wool is prized for its beautiful variegated colours and slightly coarse texture, which adds character and rustic charm to hand-knitted garments and home décor projects.

Merino Sheep

Merino sheep are world-renowned for producing one of the softest, finest wools available. Their fleece is so gentle that it can be worn directly against the skin without irritation, making it ideal for luxury clothing and next-to-skin garments like socks, baby items, and delicate sweaters. The fine fibers of Merino wool also provide excellent elasticity, breathability, and warmth.

Bluefaced Leicester

One of Britain’s most cherished lustre breeds, the Bluefaced Leicester is known for its long, silky staple and natural sheen. Originating in the Tyne & Wear Valleys and East Cumbria, these sheep are instantly recognisable by the distinctive blue tinge to their skin beneath their soft, semi-lustrous curls. The fleece combines both strength and softness, producing yarns with beautiful drape and a gentle shimmer. Perfect for shawls, cardigans, and heirloom knits that will be treasured for generations.

Masham

The Masham is a hardy northern crossbreed, created by pairing a Teeswater or Wensleydale ram with a Swaledale or Dalesbred ewe. This combination produces a soft, demi-lustre fleece with an appealing curl. Masham wool is strong yet gentle to the touch, offering a balance of resilience and softness that makes it a versatile choice for textured knits, cosy accessories, and rustic-inspired home projects.

Romney

The Romney breed, originally from the Romney Marshes of South East England, has been prized since the 13th century for its adaptability and resilience. These large, sturdy sheep carry a heavy fleece with natural sheen and character. Romney wool is strong yet soft, producing yarn with a subtle lustre and crisp handle that knits beautifully into long-lasting garments, outerwear, and timeless household textiles.

Derbyshire Gritstone

As one of Britain’s oldest hill breeds, the Derbyshire Gritstone has grazed the rugged edges of the Peak District since the 18th century. With its distinctive black markings and hardy nature, this sheep produces a resilient fleece that is among the finest grown by any hill breed. The wool has a soft-to-medium handle, perfect for durable outer layers, warm winter garments, and traditional country knits.

Black Welsh Mountain

Compact, hardy, and striking, the Black Welsh Mountain sheep is the only pure black breed native to Britain. Its dense, fine fleece has been celebrated for centuries, creating yarns of natural deep tones that need no dye. Soft and smooth to handle, this wool spins into beautifully warm and characterful yarns, ideal for knitwear with a natural edge and rich, earthy depth.

Hebridean

Native to the Hebridean Islands off the west coast of Scotland, the small but striking Hebridean sheep is usually black, though its fleece often lightens to silvery grey with age. Both ewes and rams may grow two or even four horns, adding to the breed’s wild beauty. Their fleece is strong and coarser than many breeds, giving Hebridean yarns a rugged character well-suited to outerwear, heritage projects, and hardy handknits.

North of England Mule

The North of England Mule is the result of crossing a Bluefaced Leicester ram with a Swaledale ewe, creating one of the UK’s most popular and versatile commercial breeds. Renowned for their hardiness and adaptability, these sheep produce a beautifully curled, demi-lustrous fleece. The wool combines strength with a soft handle, making it a dependable choice for everyday garments, accessories, and knits that stand up to regular wear.