wool oil
Noun: A type of oil, specifically any oil used to lubricate wool fibers prior to the spinning process. Its primary function is to reduce friction and static, making the wool easier to handle, card, and spin into yarn.
"Wool oil" is a technical term used in the textile and fiber processing industries. It refers to the substance applied to raw or washed wool. * The spinner applied a light wool oil to the fleece to prepare it for the wheel. * Traditional wool oil was often lanolin-based, but modern alternatives are available.
- The term is typically used in its compound form "wool oil." In specialized contexts, the process itself might be referred to as "oiling" the wool.
- The choice of wool oil can affect the final hand (feel) and spinability of the yarn.
- Carding oil: A similar lubricant used specifically during the carding process to align fibers.
- Fiber lubricant: A broader term for any substance used to reduce friction in textile fibers.
- Lanolin: A natural wax ester found in sheep's wool, often used as or in traditional wool oils.
- Spinning oil
- Fiber oil (in the context of wool processing)
The term "wool oil" does not commonly have other distinct meanings. It is specific to textile processing. It should not be confused with oils derived from wool (like lanolin) for cosmetic or other uses, though they may be the same substance. The defining characteristic is its application purpose: lubricating wool for spinning.
- any oil used to oil wool before spinning