Brown is one of the warmest and most versatile colors among sheepskins. Below, I’ll tell you how to use it, what types are available, and what to look for.
Why choose a brown sheepskin rug?
A brown sheepskin instantly adds more ambiance, warmth, and a luxurious, rustic look to your home. Use it as a rug to keep your feet nice and warm and create a cozy, warm floor. Or drape it purely as decoration over a chair, bench, or side table. And a thick brown sheepskin in your favorite armchair or on the couch is simply delightful.
Practical bonus: stains are much less noticeable on a brown sheepskin than on a light-colored one. And wool is a natural insulator—warm in winter, cool in summer—which also makes it a great soft spot for your dog or cat to rest.
From light brown to deep dark brown
Just like with cowhides, brown offers the most varied color palette. Many sheep breeds have some form of brown wool, ranging from light to very dark brown, and no two skins are alike. The wool length also varies: from short to long and even curly. My brown sheepskins come from breeds such as the Texelaar and the Icelandic sheep, and are sourced from Europe, where the most beautiful sheepskins originate.
Velvety soft, and without that sheepy smell
A brown sheepskin should be one you never want to stop stroking, and that’s only possible if the wool is truly soft. That’s why I have the tanneries give it an extra brushing, for a velvety softness and a warm sheen. Just as important is what you don’t smell. Sheepskins treated with a quick, cheap tanning process often retain a pungent goat or barn odor, and in a cozy, warm home, that stands out right away. Together with my tanneries, I’ve adjusted the tanning process so that odor disappears—your new sheepskin simply has a neutral scent.
Which size is right for your space?
Size matters more with a sheepskin than with most home accessories: it has to be the right fit for both the space and your plan for it. From small to large, for your reference:
- S: up to 100 cm. The accent size: draped over a stool or dining chair, in a cozy corner, or as a soft sleeping spot for your dog or cat.
- M: 100 to 115 cm. The all-rounder and most popular size. Looks great draped over an armchair or as a warm rug next to your bed. Not sure? You can almost always go wrong with size M.
- L: 116 to 120 cm. Full and generous; looks beautiful draped over a spacious sofa or as a warm, cozy accent on the floor.
- (X)XL: 121 cm and larger. The largest, fullest sheepskins: make a statement draped over a large sofa or used as a plush rug.
Measure your space and compare it to the dimensions listed for each sheepskin. Keep in mind that a sheepskin has an organic shape—it’s not a rectangle—so the length is your best guide.
Need some inspiration?
Curious to see how a brown sheepskin rug looks in different interiors? Get inspired by photos from customers, or see more in the inspiration room.
Prefer a different color?
Is brown not quite what you’re looking for? Then check out the other natural colors:
Prefer to discuss it first?
You have a 30-day return window, and I offer free shipping within the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany on orders of €100 or more. In the Netherlands, you’ll usually receive it 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. Still not quite sure? Feel free to call or email me, or schedule a visit to the showroom in Boxmeer, the Netherlands.
Fairly and sustainably tanned
The tanning process is sustainable and complies with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100: no harmful substances are used. While the official label isn’t attached, every sheepskin meets the standard. And every brown sheepskin is a byproduct of the meat industry, from sheep that have lived a good life and would otherwise be discarded. By having them tanned, nothing goes to waste—which is exactly why I started Leatheroverstock in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose a brown sheepskin rug?
Brown gives your interior a warm, cozy, and rustic look—that genuine “home” feeling. Plus, stains are less noticeable on a brown sheepskin than on a light-colored one, making it even more practical.
What shades of brown are available?
From light brown to deep dark brown, in short, long, or curly wool. Many sheep breeds have brown wool, so there’s a wide variety and every fleece is unique.
Which sheep do the brown sheepskins come from?
Including Texel and Icelandic sheepskins. My sheepskins come from Europe.
Are the brown sheepskins dyed?
No. I only sell sheepskins in their natural color. The brown comes from the sheep itself.
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 brown sheepskin rug?
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.
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