Wool is chemically and structurally similar to the hair found on other animals, including goats, camels and rabbits. Indeed, the human hair, although 2–3 times thicker than wool, is made from the same naturally-occurring proteins.

As wool grows in the follicle, it is covered with a natural greasy substance. This substance is removed by scouring before any further processing is carried out. This natural wax can be recovered during scouring to produce lanolin, which is used in many cosmetics and soaps.

Wool fibres grow out from the skin in tufts, called ‚staples‘. Each fibre also grows in a wave pattern, known as ‘crimp’. The finer the wool, the more obvious and more frequent the crimp. The crimp helps trap still air between the fibres, providing an effective insulating layer (warm in winter and cool in summer). Some wools have crimp and other do not.

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In addition to crimp, another important feature of the wool fibre is the scale structure that surrounds the fibre surface. These scales have evolved to help prevent dirt and water from reaching the sheep’s skin and are part of the reason why wool is easy to keep clean. Scales are important for protection, felting behaviour and the handle of consumer products. They provide a durable waterproof surface.

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