The Prato tradition

Wool recycling is centuries old. The Tuscan town of Prato has reclaimed wool from old garments since the 19th century, sorting rags by colour and turning them into new cloth. Prato is still one of the world's centres of recycled wool.

How it's made

Garments are sorted by colour and fibre, stripped of trims and mechanically pulled back into fibre. Because the wool is sorted by colour, it often needs no new dye. The fibre is re-spun, usually with some new wool or other fibres for strength.

What it's made of

Made from reclaimed wool textiles, often blended with other fibers to enhance durability and softness. Recycled wool reduces the need for virgin resources and diverts waste from landfills.

How it feels

Warm, durable, and breathable, with natural insulating properties. Recycled wool retains many of wool’s original qualities, such as moisture-wicking, odor resistance, and temperature regulation, while having a slightly coarser texture than virgin wool.

Where it works

Suitable for Apparel (coats, jackets, sweaters), Accessories (hats, gloves, scarves), and Home Textiles (blankets, throws, upholstery). Frequently used in products emphasizing warmth and durability, along with sustainability.

Caring for it

Hand wash or machine wash cold on a gentle wool cycle. Lay flat to dry; avoid tumble drying to prevent shrinkage. Low iron if needed; recycled wool may naturally have a rustic texture that requires minimal ironing.

Certification

Often certified by Global Recycle Standard (GRS) or OEKO-TEX® to ensure recycled content and safety standards. Certifications provide assurance of responsible sourcing and processing.