Finnsheep produce a variety of colors of wool, from white to silver to brown to black. Those who like to dye their wool often prefer white fibers, since the dye pigments show up better, but silver/grey wool makes lovely colors when dyed as well. Of course, the natural colors can be left as they are, and will never wash out or "bleed" like dye.

At Mosby's, we use handheld shears (not electric clippers) to gently remove a full year's growth of wool from each sheep in springtime. The sheep learn to anticipate this haircut every year, and react with relief when their heavy winter coat comes off. We work with the sheep one at a time, and teach them to lay down for the shearing, to keep them calm and comfortable. Because we shear only once a year, we preserve the full, natural staple length of the wool, as well as avoiding the unnecessary stress of fall shearing for the sheep, who need that wool in winter.

As a heritage landrace breed, Finnsheep have a range of wool traits. This means that any individual Finnsheep may have heavier, coarser wool fibers, or finer, more lustrous wool, depending on their particular genetic makeup. All sheep also have a range within their own fleece; the finest, softest wool is carried around their shoulders and neck, while the coarsest comes in around their legs and rump. Thus, a whole fleece will supply a variety of types of wool for numerous different projects. The finer wools, when spun "worsted," are soft enough to wear against bare skin, while coarser wools make fluffy socks, hats, scarves, and blankets. The coarse wool also felts beautifully, and woven cloth fulls easily--excellent for historical reproduction and modern uses alike.

With an average staple length between 5" to 7" and excellent luster, combed Finnsheep top makes wonderful worsted thread for weaving, embroidery or lace. If spun "in the grease," this wool typically needs no sizing for use as warp. The natural lanolin washes out of the woven product and leaves a brilliant white wool that takes dye beautifully.