A Guide to Knitwear Fabrics: lambswool, superfine lambswool, super Geelong, merino, Shetland and brushed Shetland

If you care about quality knitwear, understanding what each fabric offers makes a world of difference. The right wool will not only keep you warm but will also age beautifully and feel good every time you put it on. At Malloch’s, we use some of the finest wool in the world, each with its own story, weight and texture. This knitwear guide explains the different woollen yarns we work with and how they perform across seasons.

What to Look For When Choosing Knitwear Fabrics

Before exploring each type of wool, it helps to know what defines great knitwear.

• Raw material – Lambswool, Merino wool, Super-geelong and Shetland all have distinct qualities
• Weight or knit gauge – finer knits are great for layering, heavier ones for colder months
• Finish and texture – smooth versus textured, brushed versus unbrushed
• Provenance & craftsmanship – we work world renowned mills for our wool including Z. Hinchliffe & Sons, Todd & Duncan and J.C. Rennie. All our knitwear is made in Scotland
• Care & longevity – high quality wool lasts years if cared for properly

 

Fine Lambswool

Our fine lambswool jumpers are a Malloch’s staple, made in Hawick using yarn spun in Yorkshire by Z. Hinchliffe & Sons. They’re soft, warm and designed to be worn for most of the year.

Characteristics

• 100% lambswool
• Mid weight, ideal for layering or wearing on its own
• Smooth handle and classic appearance
• Available in timeless colours and traditional fits

How to wear it

Fine lambswool works well for both casual and more polished looks. It’s soft enough for everyday wear yet structured enough to keep its shape.

Care

Air it after each wear, wash occasionally on a gentle cycle, and store flat to preserve its shape.

View our Fine Lambswool Knitwear range here

 

Superfine Lambswool

For something a little lighter, our superfine lambswool is used in the spring and summer range. It’s still pure wool, just finer and smoother.

Characteristics

• Finer micron count than standard lambswool
• Lighter weight, ideal for transitional weather
• Soft feel and sleek appearance

How to wear it

Perfect for layering under a jacket or over a shirt when temperatures start to drop but winter hasn’t arrived yet.

Care

Wash by hand or on a wool cycle, dry flat, and fold when storing.

View our Superfine Lambswool knitwear here

 

Shetland Wool

Our Shetland collection celebrates traditional Scottish knitwear. We use Supersoft Shetland yarn from J.C. Rennie, giving a textured, robust character to every jumper.

Characteristics

• Naturally rugged with visible texture
• Warm, durable and full of personality
• Slightly heavier weight, ideal for winter

How to wear it

Shetland jumpers have a bit of a rustic charm. They look great with jeans, chinos or layered over a shirt on cold days.

Care

Brush gently to remove surface pilling and store folded rather than hung.

View our Shetland knitwear here

 

Brushed Shetland

Brushed Shetland takes the classic Shetland yarn and adds a soft finish. The surface is lightly brushed to raise the fibres, giving the jumper a cosy feel without losing its shape.

Characteristics

• Brushed finish adds softness and depth
• Retains Shetland’s durability and warmth
• Slightly fluffier look with a vintage touch

How to wear it

A brushed Shetland jumper is perfect for relaxed weekends or crisp winter days. It feels inviting and adds texture to your outfit.

Care

Keep brushing to a minimum, store flat, and avoid sharp objects that could pull the nap.

View our Brushed Shetland knitwear here

 

Merino Wool

Merino wool is known for being soft, breathable and naturally temperature regulating. It’s one of our favourite choices for spring and autumn knitwear.

Characteristics

• Fine fibres that feel smooth against the skin
• Excellent breathability and moisture control
• Lightweight with a subtle natural sheen

How to wear it

A merino jumper is a versatile piece for mild weather. It can be dressed up or down easily and feels comfortable all day.

Care

Merino is easy to look after. Wash gently, reshape while damp and avoid high heat when drying.

View our Merino wool sweaters here

 

Comparing the Fabrics

Here’s a quick overview of how each fabric performs:

Fabric	Weight	Feel	Season	Character
Fine lambswool	Medium	Soft and smooth	Autumn to spring	Classic everyday
Superfine lambswool	Light	Very soft	Spring to autumn	Refined and breathable
Super Geelong	Light	Luxurious, cashmere soft	Year round	Elegant and smooth
Merino	Light	Soft and breathable	Spring and autumn	Modern and versatile
Shetland	Heavy	Textured and warm	Autumn and winter	Heritage and rugged
Brushed Shetland	Medium to heavy	Soft and fuzzy	Winter	Cosy and relaxed

 

Care and Longevity

Good knitwear lasts years if treated well.

• Limit the amount of washing
• Air after wearing instead of constant washing
• Hand wash or use a gentle wool cycle
• Avoid hanging heavy knits as it can stretch the fibres
• Use natural moth deterrents and breathable storage bags
• Fold and store flat between seasons

Conclusion

Each fabric we use has its own story. Fine lambswool offers reliable comfort, superfine lambswool and super Geelong bring softness and refinement, merino gives light versatility, and Shetland wool celebrate Scottish heritage with warmth and character.

Whatever you choose, every Malloch’s jumper is made to last, using the best yarns alongside traditional Scottish craftsmanship. Choose the weight, texture and feel that suit you best, and you’ll have knitwear that keeps its shape, comfort and charm for years to come.