Difference between Woolens and Worsteds Yarn

The differences between woolen and worsted yarns are as follows:

Woolen fabrics have a soft feel and fuzzy surface, very little shine or sheen, will not hold a crease, and are heavier and bulkier than worsteds. Blankets, scarves, coating, are from woolen yarns. Worsted wool is smoother than woolen, takes shine more easily, does not sag, holds a crease well, is lighter and less bulky, and wears longer than woolen. Fine worsted wool is even seen in clothing for athletics.

Woolen Yarns

Woolen and worsted are two different classifications of wool fabrics and yarn. The table below lists some of their properties:

Difference between Woolen and Worsted Yarn:

Woolen Processing	Worsted Processing
Spun from wool fibres of: Length : spun from short fibres of 1-3” Diameter: medium or coarse The fibres are washed, scoured and carded.	Spun from wool fibres of: Length : longer than 3” Diameter: fine diameter Fibres are washed, scoured, carded, combed and drawn
Yarn Bulky Uneven Low to medium slack twist Tensile strength lower than worsted	Yarn Fine Smooth Even Tighter twist Higher tensile strength
Fabric Appearance Soft Fuzzy Heavier weight	Fabric Appearance Crisp Smooth Lighter weight
Characteristics Insulator due to trapped air Does not hold a crease well Less durable than worsted	Characteristics Less insulator Holds creases and shape More durable than woollens
Uses Sweater Carpets Tweeds	Uses Suits Dresses Gabardines Crepes

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Mazharul Islam Kiron is a textile consultant and researcher on online business promotion. He is working with one European textile machinery company as a country agent. He is also a contributor of Wikipedia.

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