What is an Icelandic sheepskin?

Are you already familiar with Icelandic sheepskins? Perhaps you have already seen them passing by, the beautiful furs with long straight hairs (wool). They are one of the most beloved sheepskins because of their unique appearance and timeless beauty. They come from the so-called Icelandic breed of sheep that live in the harsh Icelandic climate and are known for their tasty meat and fine and warm wool. Partly because of this, they are appreciated as a decorative addition for your interior. In this blog I will take you through this beautiful and fine breed of sheep, what makes them so special and why they are a popular choice for your interior.

In this blog about Icelandic sheepskins:

1. What are Icelandic sheep?
2. Characteristics of Icelandic sheepskins
3. How can you use Icelandic furs in your interiors?
4. Did you know that Iceland's unique environment contributes to the quality of these sheepskins?
5. History of Icelandic sheep
6. Conclusion

What are Icelandic sheep?

Icelandic sheep are a unique and ancient breed of sheep which were brought to Iceland by the Vikings more than 1,000 years ago. Since their arrival in about the 9th century, this breed of sheep has adapted over the centuries to the extreme conditions of the harsh Icelandic climate. Therefore, Icelandic sheep are known for their robustness and resilience, making them relatively easy to survive the harsh conditions. Iceland's remoteness and lack of importation of other sheep breeds has ensured that the Icelandic sheep are virtually not mixed with other sheep breeds, making them and of the purest sheep breeds.

One of the unique features of this beautiful breed of sheep is their double coat, which protects them from the cold and wet weather. The sheep coat consists of a soft, insulating undercoat that retains that warmth, and a longer outer coat that repels rain, snow and dirt, among other things. The double coat makes these sheep very resistant to the cold, wet, harsh climate of Iceland.

Icelandic sheep are relatively smaller compared to other sheep breeds, but this compact size allows them to be highly maneuverable and survive well on the arid Icelandic terrain. They walk there in the wild where they feed on such things as grass, moss and herbs, which grow there in abundance during the summer months which has a positive influence on the wool. These sheep play an important role in Iceland's economy and culture, as they are both a good source of meat, milk and wool.

Characteristics of Icelandic sheepskins

Icelandic sheepskins are known for their unique wool and properties that set them apart from other sheep breeds. This special coat allows them to withstand the harsh weather conditions of Iceland, as the wool provides excellent thermal insulation. The outer coat can grow up to 20 to 30 cm long, giving them a full and luxurious appearance. This long wool the Icelandic sheep has developed over time to cope with the harsh climate. In fact, other sheepskins are often shorter in wool and less diverse in colors.

In addition, Icelandic sheepskins come in an immense variety of natural colors, ranging from white and black to different shades of gray, browns and even multicolors. This makes them so popular among interior decorators and for home use.

How can you use Icelandic furs in your interiors?

The fur of Icelandic sheepskins is what makes them unique, among other things. This is partly why they are popular with interior decorators and stylists but you also see them more and more in the regular living room. This is because they are a luxurious addition to any interior, thanks to the long, soft wool and natural beauty.

Because of their natural beauty, they are often used as decorative elements to create extra warmth and atmosphere in the home. For example, drape a sheepskin over the back of your chair or sofa to add a cozy and inviting feel to your seating. Or for a breaking point, you can place a large fleece on your floor, such as in front of the television or fireplace.

What is also nice is to put a sheepskin next to your bed on the floor. When you get up in the morning, you step right onto the soft, warm fur so you never have cold feet again.

Do you have pets? For that I have special coats for dog and cat. Your pets will also love the Icelandic coats, they can lie and sleep on them without feeling the cold of the floor.

For the creative among us, you can also turn them into unique LARP costumes or other special garments, allowing you to combine functionality and style.

Curious about even more ways you can use a sheepskin? Then read the blog: How to use a sheepskin in your interior.

Or check out the inspiration room and see how customers have used them in their interiors.

Did you know that Iceland's unique environment contributes to the quality of these sheepskins?

The exceptional quality of Icelandic sheepskins is not only due to the years of evolution of this beautiful breed of sheep but is also greatly influenced by the unique Icelandic environment in which they grow up and live. Iceland's unique landscape and climate ensures that the sheep have a unique and rich diet that allows them to develop a healthy and strong wool.

In summer, the sheep migrate through the vast wilderness, where they feed on a rich mix of wild grasses, herbs and mosses. This naturally nutritious vegetation causes the sheep to develop a thick, strong and shiny coat that protects them from Iceland's unpredictable weather elements.

In addition, Iceland's harsher winters, where temperatures can drop quickly and the weather can be inclement, ensure that only the strongest sheep survive. This natural selection process has resulted in only the strongest sheep surviving. To survive, the sheep must not only eat well but also have a strong coat, the coats have a unique substance called lanolin, this natural substance makes the wool work water repellent, is self-cleaning and helps maintain the quality of the coat.

The history of Icelandic sheep

The origins of this beautiful breed of sheep go back centuries and are as fascinating as the sheep themselves. We go all the way back in time to the time of the Vikings, around the 9th century. The Vikings then brought their Norwegian sheep to the island, which evolved there over the centuries and adapted completely to the harsh, Icelandic climate. Known for their good resistance to the cold, the sheep have a double coat consisting of covering hairs and a fine, warm undercoat. It is this unique combination that makes Icelandic sheep so special.

Iceland's isolation has helped to ensure that these sheep have had virtually no crossbreeding with other breeds, thus preserving the purity of this breed and its accompanying unique characteristics.

Conclusion

By now you are (almost) completely familiar with the beautiful Icelandic sheep and its unique characteristics. An ancient breed, which has perfectly adapted to the harsh climate of Iceland with a unique coat that protects them from the cold and other weather elements of Iceland. What makes Icelandic sheepskins so special is their long, soft wool that can grow up to 30 cm long, and the large variety of natural colors, such as white, gray, brown, black and multicolors. These furs are not only functional because of their good insulation but also loved for their luxurious appearance. Whether you use them as a decorative piece on your chair, couch, carpet, or even as a comfortable resting place for your dog or cat, an Icelandic sheepskin is sure to add warmth, ambiance and a natural beauty to any interior.

Need help picking out your new sheepskin?

Would you like to buy a sheepskin but are not quite sure and would like to get extra help and advice? I would be happy to help you with any questions you may have. Then you can make a well-considered choice and go for the coat that perfectly fits your wishes and needs. You can contact me at +31(0)6 17 52 13 63 (during opening hours), send an e-mail or come by in Boxmeer, the Netherlands (by appointment only) to experience them.