Gray is the modern, neutral choice when it comes to sheepskins. Below, I’ll tell you what to look for.
Why choose a gray sheepskin?
Gray fits into virtually any interior—modern, industrial, Scandinavian, or minimalist. The shades range from light gray to almost anthracite, and gray pairs effortlessly with both warm and cool colors: it looks just as beautiful with wood and linen as it does with concrete, steel, and minimalist furniture. 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 light gray to anthracite
No two gray sheepskins are alike. The shade ranges from soft light gray to deep, almost anthracite, sometimes with subtle variations in tone. Many gray sheepskins come from Icelandic sheep, with beautiful long wool, but shorter wool is also available. My gray sheepskins come from Europe, where the finest sheepskins are sourced.
Soft to the touch, odor-free
The first thing you’ll notice about a gray sheepskin is how supple it is: the tanneries give it an extra brushing to make the wool soft and give it a beautiful sheen. And what you don’t smell is just as important. Cheaper sheepskins that undergo a short tanning process often retain a strong goat or barn odor, which can quickly become overwhelming in a smaller space. That’s why I’ve worked with my tanneries to adjust the tanning process so that odor disappears. What remains is a neutral pelt, ready to be laid out immediately.
Which size is right for you?
When it comes to sheepskins, size matters more than you might think: it has to be right for the space and for what you want to use it for. Here’s a quick guide, from small to large:
- S: up to 100 cm. The accent size: draped over a stool or dining chair, in a reading nook, or as a soft spot for the cat.
- M: 100 to 115 cm. By far the favorite and the most versatile. Drape it over an armchair, or place it next to your bed as a warm step. Not sure? With size M, you can’t go wrong.
- L: 116 to 120 cm. Generous and full; looks great on a spacious sofa or as an eye-catcher on the floor.
- (X)XL: 121 cm and up. The fullest pieces—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: a sheepskin has an organic shape—it’s not a rectangle—so use the length as a general guideline.
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 gray not quite what you’re looking for? Then check out the other natural colors:
Need some help deciding?
You have a 30-day return window, and orders over €100 qualify for 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. Our customers give us a 9.7 rating. Having trouble deciding or need advice? Call or email me, or schedule a visit to our showroom in Boxmeer, the Netherlands.
Tanned without harmful substances
The tanning process is sustainable, in accordance with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100: a process free of harmful substances. The skins do not carry the official certification mark, but they do meet the standard. And every skin is and remains a byproduct of the meat industry; by having it tanned, nothing goes to waste. That very idea was my reason for starting Leatheroverstock in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose a gray sheepskin?
Gray is neutral and modern, and fits into virtually any interior. The shades range from light gray to almost anthracite and pair well with both warm and cool colors—a sophisticated, contemporary choice that brings a sense of calm without being overpowering.
Which sheep do gray sheepskins usually come from?
Many gray sheepskins come from Icelandic sheep, with beautiful long wool. However, shorter wool is also available. Each sheepskin is unique in shade and pattern.
Are the gray sheepskins dyed?
No. I only sell sheepskins in their natural colors. The gray comes 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 a gray 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.