There are two types of wool yarn you can purchase. The first type is called worsted wool yarn and has a smooth finish. The reason for this is that the fibers, which usually range from three to six inches long, are combed flat so that they lie parallel before they are spun into the yarn. This type of wool yarn tends to be lightweight.

The worsted term derives from the village of Worsted in Norfolk, England. This village was well known for becoming a major manufacturer of yarn and cloth made from wool. The yarn and cloth manufacturing in the town first began with the arrival of the Flanders in Norfolk during the 12th century.

The other type of wool yarn is called woolen yarn. This type of yarn is much fuzzier than the worsted wool yarn. The fibers used in the spinning process are usually between one and three inches long. The fibers do not lie flat in one direction like the worsted fibers do, but instead, they stick up and are very soft to the touch. Woolen yarn is made with wool fibers that are carded before they are spun.

The length and thickness of wool yarn can vary depending on the cut and on how many strands were used. Wool yarn can be dyed or hand painted as well. Depending on the individual gauges, some types of wool yarn can be ideal for knitting sweaters, hats, mittens, gloves, scarves, house slippers, mufflers and shawls.