Wool has a little spring built into it.
Crimp is the natural waviness of a wool fiber. Look closely at an unspun lock and you may see fine, closely spaced ripples or broader, more open waves.
Those bends help keep fibers from packing tightly together, creating space for insulating air. Crimp also contributes to wool’s bounce and its ability to recover after stretching or compression.
Crimp is part of the fiber before spinning begins. Twist is added by the spinner as the fibers become yarn.
Curator’s Note: When you squeeze a springy skein and feel it puff back into shape you’re feeling the combined effects of the fiber and the way the yarn was made. Crimp is one small detail behind that familiar woolly character.
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