Sourcing area

Karakul sheep kept by highland pastoralists in the eastern Georgian mountains — Kakheti and Tusheti regions.

Minimum order

500g raw weight.

Lead time

Shearing typically occurs in spring (April–May) and autumn (October). Contact in advance to be notified when fresh fleece is available.

Harvest variability

Fleece quality depends on winter grazing conditions. Animals raised at higher altitude produce finer fibre with more pronounced crimp.

Quality variability

Natural colour ranges from off-white to mid-brown and grey. Fibre diameter is consistent within a single animal but varies across a batch from multiple animals. Contamination (VM) is minimal but present — raw fleece is not processed.

Storage / shelf life

Indefinitely storable in a breathable container. Avoid plastic — fleece needs air circulation. Lanolin content is a natural preservative.

Packaging

Breathable cotton bag or wrapped in kraft paper. Not vacuum-sealed.

Import restrictions

Some countries require raw wool to be heat-treated before import. Check with your national biosecurity authority. US, EU, and UK generally permit raw wool with documentation.

Notes

Dispatched unwashed to preserve lanolin. Lanolin smell dissipates after washing. Washing removes a significant portion of the weight — account for this when ordering by the kilo.