Fabrics & Yarn

What fabrics does Malloch's use in its knitwear?

We work with fine lambswool, superfine lambswool, merino wool and Shetland wool (including a brushed "shaggy dog" finish), each suited to a different weight, feel and season. Our full breakdown of what each yarn offers — including how they compare side by side — is in our Guide to Knitwear Fabrics.

What's the difference between lambswool and merino wool?

Lambswool is shorn from a lamb's first fleece, giving it a soft handle with a classic, slightly denser feel — ideal for most of the year. Merino wool comes from Merino sheep and is prized for very fine fibres, excellent breathability and natural temperature regulation, making it a lighter option for spring and autumn. See our Fine Lambswool and Merino Wool sections for the full comparison.

What makes Shetland wool different from lambswool?

Shetland wool has a naturally rugged, textured character and a heavier weight, making it a warmer, more hard-wearing choice for autumn and winter — we use Supersoft Shetland yarn from J.C. Rennie. Lambswool, by contrast, is smoother and mid-weight, so it wears well across more of the year. Browse the Shetland Knitwear collection or read more in our fabric guide.

What is superfine lambswool?

Superfine lambswool uses a finer micron count than our standard lambswool, giving a lighter, softer jumper that's better suited to layering in transitional weather. It's the yarn behind our Preston Superfine Lambswool Jumper.

What is "brushed" or "shaggy dog" Shetland?

They're just different names for the same thing. Brushed Shetland starts as the same hard-wearing Shetland yarn, but the surface is lightly brushed to raise the fibres, giving a softer, slightly fluffier finish while keeping the wool's warmth and shape. "Shaggy Dog" became a nickname given to the quality of the wool, with its unique rough and shaggy looking exterior. Our Kelso "Shaggy Dog" Brushed Shetland Jumper is a good example.

What is the Malloch's x John Smedley collaboration?

This is a co-branded polo shirt using Sea Island cotton, made in partnership with John Smedley. You can read about the factory visit and how the pieces came together in our Journal post on the Malloch's x John Smedley collaboration, or shop the John Smedley Cromford Polo Shirts directly.

Made in Scotland & Craftsmanship

Where is Malloch's knitwear made?

All of our knitwear is made in Scotland, at factories with a long history of knitwear manufacturing, using traditional knitting techniques honed over generations. Our fine lambswool, for example, is knitted in Hawick. You can read more about our approach on our About page.

Where does your wool come from?

We source yarn from some of the best-known mills in the business, including Z. Hinchliffe & Sons (spinners of the yarn used in our fine lambswool), Todd & Duncan, and J.C. Rennie, who supply our Supersoft Shetland yarn. Provenance and craftsmanship are covered in more detail in our Guide to Knitwear Fabrics.

Why does British-made knitwear matter?

British and Scottish mills carry generations of expertise in spinning and knitting wool, which shows up in the handle, structure and lifespan of the finished garment. We explore this in more depth in our Journal post on why knitwear made in Scotland is respected worldwide.

Is Malloch's knitwear sustainable?

We work with established British and Scottish mills and focus on producing knitwear that's built to last, rather than short-lived, disposable pieces — buying fewer, better garments is itself a more sustainable approach to a wardrobe. For more on our sourcing and values, see our About & Sustainability page.

Sizing & Fit

How should a Malloch's jumper fit?

Our jumpers are cut in timeless, classic fits — designed to sit comfortably rather than tight, so you can layer a shirt underneath without feeling restricted. Each product page includes a specific size guide and measurements for that style, so check the individual listing before ordering.

What if I'm between sizes?

For lambswool and merino styles, most customers find their usual size works well; for a slightly more relaxed, layering-friendly fit, you may prefer to size up. If you're unsure, our team is happy to advise — just contact us with the product name before you order.

Will wool knitwear shrink or stretch over time?

Wool can shrink if machine washed on a hot setting or tumble dried, and can stretch out of shape if hung on a hanger for long periods. Followed correctly, our care guidance below is designed to keep the fit and shape true wear after wear.

Care & Longevity

How do I wash my Malloch's jumper?

Air your jumper after each wear rather than washing every time — wool is naturally resistant to odour and this alone extends its life considerably. When it does need a wash, use a gentle hand wash or a wool cycle, reshape while damp, and dry flat rather than on a hanger or radiator. Full guidance by fabric type is in our fabric care section.

How should I store my knitwear between seasons?

Fold rather than hang your jumpers, use breathable storage bags, and add natural moth deterrents such as cedar. Hanging heavy knits for long periods can stretch the fibres out of shape.

Why is my jumper pilling, and how do I fix it?

Mild pilling is normal, especially on textured Shetland wool, and is caused by friction against other fabrics. A wool comb or fabric shaver, used gently, will remove it without damaging the knit — avoid vigorous brushing, particularly on brushed Shetland styles.

Do different fabrics need different care?

Yes — for example, Shetland wool benefits from occasional gentle brushing to lift the texture, while merino should avoid high heat when drying, and superfine lambswool is best hand washed or dried flat. Our Guide to Knitwear Fabrics has fabric-by-fabric care notes for every style we make.

Ordering, Shipping & Returns

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship worldwide from the UK. Full details on delivery times, costs and international shipping are on our Shipping & Returns page.

What is your returns policy?

Our returns process, timeframes and conditions are set out in full on our Refund Policy page — please check this before sending an item back.

Can I see Malloch's knitwear in person?

We're stocked by a number of retailers alongside our own online store. See our Stockists page for locations near you.

How do I track my order?

You'll receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking details once your order has left us. If you haven't received this or have any issue locating your parcel, contact us and we'll help directly.

Gifting & Styling

What's a good gift jumper if I'm not sure of the fabric?

Fine lambswool is our most versatile, year-round staple and a safe choice if you're buying for someone else — it suits both smart and casual wardrobes. See the full range in Fine Lambswool Knitwear.

How do I style a Malloch's jumper?

Fine lambswool and merino styles work equally well over a shirt for smarter occasions or on their own for the weekend, while Shetland and brushed Shetland jumpers lean more casual and rugged, layered over a shirt or worn with jeans. Our Journal post on timeless style in lambswool and merino wool covers this in more depth.

I'm new to Malloch's — where should I start?

Our full Knitwear collection is the best overview, or start with our Guide to Knitwear Fabrics if you'd like to choose based on fabric and season first.