Sheepskin curly wool

Looking to buy a curly sheepskin? Playful and decorative

A curly sheepskin is a real eye-catcher. The playful curls give the skin plenty of character and a luxurious, cozy look you won’t find anywhere else. It’s the perfect decorative skin: drape it over a chair, on the floor, or over a chest or sofa, where the curls really stand out.

I personally hand-select each hide, so you can always be sure you’re getting a beautiful, carefully chosen hide. And because it’s a natural product, no two curly hides are alike.

Curly wool is the most playful, decorative option among sheepskins. Below, I’ll tell you what to look for.

Why choose a curly sheepskin?

While straight, long wool looks elegant and flowing, curly wool adds a playful touch and volume. The curls beautifully catch the light and provide depth and texture, allowing the skin to create a warm, cozy atmosphere with character. It’s primarily a decorative sheepskin, perfect as an eye-catcher draped over a piece of furniture or on the floor—just a bit more unique than an ordinary sheepskin. And like any sheepskin, the wool is naturally insulating: warm in winter, cool in summer.

Often from Gotland sheep, with gray curls

Many curly skins come from the Gotland sheep, a breed known for its beautiful, curly wool in shades of gray, ranging from light silver-gray to deep, dark gray. No two are alike: the curl, the fullness, and the exact shade vary from animal to animal. My fleeces come from Europe, where the finest fleeces are sourced, and all shades are natural—never dyed. Curly wool is a type of long wool; if you’re looking for straight, flowing locks, be sure to check out the Icelandic sheep as well.

Soft, glossy, and odorless

The curly wool feels soft and springy, and the brushing process at the tannery gives it a beautiful sheen. I find the scent just as important. Hides that undergo a short, inexpensive tanning process often retain a strong goat or barn odor, which quickly becomes noticeable in the home. Together with my tanneries, I’ve adjusted the tanning process so that this odor is eliminated and the hide has a neutral scent.

Finding the Right Size

When it comes to a hide, size really matters: it has to fit both the space and your purpose. 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 skin. A sheepskin has a natural, organic shape—not a rectangle—so go by the length.

Need some inspiration?

There’s nothing quite like seeing how others have styled their spaces. Get inspired in the inspiration room by real customer interiors, and discover which style, location, and combination suit you best.

Would you prefer a different type of wool or color?

Is curly wool not quite what you’re looking for? Then check out:

Any 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. Not sure if curly wool is right for you? Feel free to call or email me, or make an appointment to visit our showroom in Boxmeer, the Netherlands.

Sustainably tanned, a byproduct

The tanning process is sustainable, carried out in accordance with the Oeko-Tex Standard 100, without the use of harmful substances. The certification mark isn’t officially displayed, but the standard is met. And every hide is a byproduct of the meat industry: by having it tanned, nothing goes to waste. That’s the idea that inspired me to start Leatheroverstock in the first place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a curly sheepskin?

A hide with naturally curly wool instead of straight or short hair. Those curls add volume, texture, and a playful, luxurious look. It is the perfect decorative hide.

Which sheep produces curly wool?

Often from the Gotland sheep, known for its beautiful curly wool in shades of gray, ranging from light silver-gray to deep gray. Each hide is unique in its curl, fullness, and shade.

Is a curly sheepskin meant for sitting on?

It’s primarily a decorative skin: the curls look their best as an eye-catching accent draped over a piece of furniture or laid out on the floor. If you’re looking for a skin to sit on intensively every day, short or medium-length wool is more practical.

Are the curly sheepskins dyed?

No. I sell only skins in their natural color. The gray and other 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 a curly sheepskin?

Be sure to leave the curls alone—combing them too much will straighten them out. Gently shake it out every now and then; if there’s a 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 Sheepskins.”