Icelandic sheepskin is perhaps the most unique sheepskin there is, with a centuries-old history and a type of wool you won’t find anywhere else. Below, I’ll explain where it comes from and what to look for.
What makes an Icelandic sheepskin so special?
The origins of Icelandic sheepskin are just as fascinating as the fleece itself. Sheep farming in Iceland dates back to the time of the Vikings, around the 9th century: the first settlers brought their Norwegian sheep to the island, where they adapted to the harsh climate over the centuries. Because Iceland is so isolated, the breed has hardly been crossbred with other sheep, preserving its unique characteristics. A defining feature is its double coat: long, protective outer hair and a fine, warm undercoat beneath it. It is precisely this combination that makes an Icelandic sheep so warm, soft, and full of character.
Shaped by Iceland’s rugged climate
The quality of an Icelandic sheepskin lies not only in its genes, but also in its environment. Iceland is known for its rugged landscape, clean air, and pure water. In the summer, the sheep graze freely in unspoiled nature and feed on wild grass, herbs, and moss—a diet that contributes to a thick, glossy coat. The harsh winters ensure that only the strongest, healthiest animals develop a robust coat. Moreover, the wool naturally contains lanolin (wool grease), which makes it inherently dirt- and moisture-repellent. An Icelandic sheep’s coat is, in fact, a direct reflection of the pure, rugged beauty of Iceland itself.
Long wool with a decorative look
The Icelandic horse is best known for its beautiful, long wool: less dense than, for example, a Texel sheep, but smooth and soft, and therefore very decorative. Those long, flowing hairs give the pelt a luxurious, atmospheric look that stands out draped over a chair or on the floor. If you’re looking for something a bit more compact or sleek, shorter and medium-length wool is also available. My Icelandic sheepskins come from Europe, where the finest skins are sourced.
How to Use an Icelandic Sheepskin in Your Home
An Icelandic sheepskin is just as versatile as it is beautiful. Here are a few ideas:
- Drape them over your couch or chair: for an extra layer of warmth, softness, and coziness that you’ll want to sit on all evening.
- Next to your bed: so your feet land on a warm, woolly rug in the morning instead of a cold floor.
- On the floor to add ambiance: in the living room or bedroom, or draped over a chest or side table for that extra touch of elegance.
- In a quiet corner: as a soft, insulating base for a meditation or reading nook.
Brushed multiple times and odor-neutral
My Icelandic sheepskins are so supple that you’ll want to keep stroking them, and that’s thanks to the work at the tannery, where the skins are brushed multiple times until they’re extremely soft and have a beautiful sheen. The scent is just as defining. Many cheaper hides that undergo a limited tanning process retain a strong goat or barn odor, which you’ll definitely notice quickly, especially in a smaller space. Together with my tanneries, I’ve adjusted the tanning process to neutralize that odor; your new Icelandic sheepskin simply smells neutral and can be put out right away.
What size do you need?
With sheepskin, the size matters even more: it has to be just right for the spot you’re putting it on and for what you want to use it for. Icelandic sheepskins are most commonly found in sizes M through XXL. Each pelt is photographed and measured separately, so you’ll know exactly whether it fits your space when you get it home. Just a quick note:
- S: up to 100 cm. Great as an accent: draped over a stool or dining chair, or as a soft spot for your dog or cat.
- M: 100 to 115 cm. Versatile and the most popular choice. Looks great draped over an armchair or as a warm rug next to your bed. Not sure which size to choose? You can almost always go with size M.
- L: 116 to 120 cm. Generous and full; looks great on a larger sofa or as a cozy accent on the floor.
- (X)XL: 121 cm and up. The fullest skins: make a statement draped over a large sofa or used as a full-size rug.
Measure your space and compare it to the dimensions listed for each skin. Keep in mind that a sheepskin has an organic shape—it’s not a rectangle—so the length is the best measurement to use.
Shall we take a look together?
You have a 30-day return window, and for orders over €100, I offer free shipping within the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. In the Netherlands, you’ll usually receive your order within 1–2 business days. Shipping to other countries may take a little longer, but barring any delays, your order will typically arrive at your home within a maximum of 7 business days. Customers rate us a 9.8. Not sure, or need advice? Feel free to call or email me, or schedule a visit to the showroom in Boxmeer, the Netherlands.
Sustainably tanned in accordance with standards
I tan the hides sustainably, in accordance with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100, a process free of harmful substances. Officially, the certification label isn’t attached, but the hides do meet the standard. And just like all my hides, the Icelandic hide is also a byproduct of the meat industry: by having it tan, nothing goes to waste. That’s the idea that led me to start Leatheroverstock in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Icelandic sheepskin?
A sheepskin from the Icelandic sheep, an ancient breed descended from the sheep brought by the Vikings around the 9th century. It’s characterized by its double coat—long guard hairs with a fine, warm undercoat—and its beautiful, long wool. This makes it warm, soft, and very decorative.
Why is Icelandic wool so special?
The rugged Icelandic climate, the clean air, and the natural diet result in a thick, lustrous coat. The wool naturally contains lanolin (wool grease), which makes it dirt- and moisture-repellent. And because the breed lived in such isolation, these unique qualities have been preserved over the centuries.
What colors and sizes are available?
All colors are natural—ranging from white and cream to gray, brown, and black—and never dyed. Icelandic sheepskins are most commonly available in sizes M through XXL. Each skin is unique in color, pattern, and size.
Are the Icelandic sheepskins dyed?
No. I sell only sheepskins in their natural colors. All shades come from the sheep themselves.
Will I receive the exact skin shown in the photo?
Almost always. I photograph most skins individually and assign them a unique number, so you’ll receive exactly that skin. Some I sell “off the stack”; in that case, you’ll receive a sheepskin similar to the one in the photo, in the same color and size. The listing will specify which option applies.
How do I care for an Icelandic sheepskin?
Low-maintenance. Thanks to the lanolin, the wool is naturally resistant to dirt. Shake it out occasionally and comb it with a wool comb if necessary; for a small stain, use a slightly damp cloth. Never put it in the washing machine. You can find detailed tips in the blog post “Cleaning and Caring for Sheepskin.”
