The Zwartbles

  • A Zwarbles sheep with brown coat and a white face standing in a green field

The Zwartbles comes from Friesland in the Netherlands, where it was traditionally kept in small dairy and mixed farms. Introduced to the UK in the 1990s, it quickly became popular for its striking appearance, friendly temperament, and attractive fleece. The breed carries a dense, medium-grade wool that ranges from deep chocolate to near-black, often with a subtle, natural sheen.

The fleece is long, soft, and easy to handle, making it particularly suitable for spinning, felting, and weaving. Its rich natural colour provides warmth and depth in undyed textiles, while its staple structure offers good versatility for both fine and robust woollen goods. Today, the Zwartbles is valued by fibre enthusiasts and small-scale wool producers seeking high-quality, naturally coloured fleece.

Region

The Netherlands (Friesland); now established widely across the UK

Wool Characteristics

  • Texture

    Medium-soft with a long, open staple and smooth handle.

  • Colour

    Deep brown to near-black, with rich natural depth; free from kemp and white fibres except in the characteristic blaze.

  • Quality

    Soft, warm, and easy to spin; excellent for both woollen and worsted preparations.

  • Uses

    Hand-spinning, knitwear, felting, weaving, blankets, and naturally coloured garments.

Distinctive Qualities

* Dark fleece contrasting with a bright white facial blaze and white socks.
* Long, soft fibre ideal for both craft and textile applications.
* Naturally coloured wool that needs no dyeing.
* Calm, friendly breed popular in small flocks and fibre-focused enterprises.
* Consistent fleece with good length and minimal contamination.

Summary

The Zwartbles is an attractive and characterful breed, admired for its rich dark fleece and distinctive markings. Its wool offers warmth, softness, and natural beauty, making it a favourite among spinners, felters, and weavers. With its gentle disposition and striking appearance, the Zwartbles remains a valued addition to flocks focused on high-quality, naturally coloured fibre.

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