Black and white is the most striking, graphic choice among sheepskins: maximum contrast between deep black and bright white. Below, I’ll tell you what to look for.
Why choose a black-and-white sheepskin?
The striking contrast between black and white makes every sheepskin a real eye-catcher—some feature large, distinct patches, while others have a finer, speckled pattern. This graphic look fits beautifully into a modern, industrial, or minimalist interior, adding a bold accent without requiring much styling. And a sheepskin is more than just beautiful: wool is a natural insulator (warm in winter, cool in summer), and it’s wonderfully soft to lie on—even for your dog or cat.
From large patches to fine speckles
No two black-and-white sheepskins are alike. The black-to-white ratio and the pattern vary from animal to animal: from large, distinct patches to a finer, speckled mix. The wool length also varies, from short to long. My black-and-white sheepskins come from breeds such as the Texelaar and the Icelandic sheep, and are sourced from Europe, where the finest sheepskins originate.
Naturally black, never dyed
Important to know: the black in my sheepskins is always natural, never dyed. True deep black is relatively rare in sheep, and that’s exactly why a beautiful black-and-white sheepskin is so special. The color comes entirely from the sheep itself; the black can range from jet black to a warm, dark brownish-black—and that’s part of what makes it a truly natural product.
Silky soft and odor-neutral
The wool from a black-and-white sheepskin is wonderfully supple: at the tannery, it’s given an extra brushing, which ensures softness and a beautiful sheen. Just as important is what it doesn’t have—an odor. Cheaper skins that undergo a limited tanning process often still smell like a goat or a farm—a scent that quickly spreads throughout your home. Together with my tanneries, I’ve adjusted the tanning process so that this odor is neutralized and the skin simply has a neutral scent.
From small to large: the sizes
Size matters when it comes to a sheepskin: it has to fit both the space and your intended use. Here’s a guide, listed in ascending order of size:
- S: up to 100 cm. Great as an accent: draped over a stool or dining chair, in a corner, or as a soft spot for your dog or cat.
- M: 100 to 115 cm. The versatile favorite. Looks great draped over an armchair, or as a warm rug next to your bed. Not sure? You can almost always go with size M.
- L: 116 to 120 cm. Plush and generous; looks great draped over a larger sofa or as a decorative 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 sheepskin. Keep in mind that a sheepskin has a natural, organic shape—not a rectangle—so focus primarily on the length.
Need some inspiration?
A natural product really comes to life in your home. Curious about all the possibilities? In the inspiration room, I’ve collected the best mood photos from customers—full of ideas and combinations you can use right away to transform your own space.
Prefer a different color?
Is black and white not quite what you’re looking for? Then check out the other natural colors:
Questions or concerns?
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. Delivery 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 9.7. Having trouble deciding? Feel free to call or email me, or make an appointment to visit our showroom in Boxmeer, the Netherlands.
The tanning process: clean and sustainable
I tan the skins sustainably, in accordance with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100: without harmful substances. The certification mark isn’t officially displayed on the product, but the standard is met. And every sheepskin is a byproduct of the meat industry; by having it tanned, nothing goes to waste. That very idea was the inspiration behind Leatheroverstock.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a black-and-white sheepskin special?
The striking contrast between deep black and bright white creates a graphic, vibrant pattern that varies from pelt to pelt. It’s a real eye-catcher that adds a bold, contemporary touch and fits beautifully into a modern or industrial interior.
What’s the difference between black and white and brown and white?
Brown and white creates a warmer, softer atmosphere. Black and white, on the other hand, offers a sleek, graphic contrast: brighter and edgier, with more emphasis on the pattern. Brown and white looks cozy, while black and white looks modern and bold.
Are the black-and-white sheepskins dyed?
No. I only sell sheepskins in their natural colors. Both the black and the white come from the sheep itself. True deep black is relatively rare in sheep, which makes a black-and-white sheepskin even more special.
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 a black-and-white sheepskin?
Low-maintenance. Shake it out every now and then and comb it with a wool comb if needed; for small stains, use a slightly damp cloth. Never put it in the washing machine. You can find detailed tips in the blog post on cleaning and caring for sheepskin.