Dundaga 6.1 Gotland Wool and German Shepherd Merino Yarn, Available in Skeins or Cake, Fingering Weight, Single Ply, 420m/100g (459y/3.52oz)

This exceptional Dundaga 6/1 heritage yarn is crafted from a rare and intentional blend of Gotland wool and German Shepherd Merino (German Mutton Merino). Each skein is hand-dyed in small batches at the historic Paces Vilnas Fabrika, where traditional methods and vintage equipment preserve the natural integrity, elasticity, and character of the fiber.

Spun as a 6/1 single ply, this yarn allows long fibers to remain visible, creating a texture that is rustic yet refined. Gotland contributes its signature silvery undertones, subtle halo, and durability, while German Shepherd Merino adds elasticity, bounce, and a surprisingly high level of softness for a heritage wool. Naturally rich in lanolin, the yarn delivers deep warmth, structure, and longevity while transforming beautifully after washing and blocking.

▣ Product Details
• Fiber Content: Gotland Wool & German Shepherd Merino - the unique fiber blend
  - Gotland Wool: Known for its silk-like luster and silvery grey undertones, Gotland wool adds a distinct "halo" and durability to the yarn.
 - German Shepherd Merino: This is a rare, high-quality Merino breed (often referred to as German Mutton Merino) that provides the "8.5 out of 10" softness and elastic bounce.
• Yarn Weight: Fingering
• Structure: Single Ply (6/1)
• Yardage: approx. 420 m / 100 g (≈ 459 yd / 3.52 oz)
• Skein Weight: Varies; each skein is listed with its approximate weight and price
• Origin: Spun and dyed in Latvia, Europe
• Processing: Non-superwash, low-intervention, lanolin-rich

⌁ Texture & Feel
• Authentic rustic texture with visible fiber character
• Lanolin-rich and deeply warming
• Softens significantly after washing and blocking
• Excellent stitch definition and long-term structural stability

Softness Rating: 4/ 5 after washing
(Starts at approximately 3 / 5 on the skein and softens noticeably after soaking and blocking.)

⌁ What Makes This Dundaga (6/1) Yarn Special
This yarn is produced using low-intervention processing, avoiding aggressive chemical stripping. Retained natural oils mean the final wash is a transformative step—it activates the fiber’s bloom, deepens color vibrancy, and changes the texture from slightly oily on the skein to soft, lofty, and elastic in the finished fabric.

Thanks to the wool’s natural crimp and elasticity, garments made from this yarn hold their shape exceptionally well, allowing sweaters and cardigans to remain structured for decades. With approximately 420 meters per 100 g, it creates lightweight yet exceptionally warm heritage garments.

⌁ Color Behavior & Artisanal Dyeing
Dundaga is known for its unique artisanal dyeing process. Colors behave like watercolor paints, blending, striping, and shifting naturally as you work. Long color sections make it possible to achieve rich multicolor or jacquard designs without purchasing multiple shades. Because color lots vary, purchasing enough yarn for your entire project is strongly recommended.

➤ Recommended Needles & Hooks
• Knitting needles: 3.0 – 3.5 mm
• Crochet hooks: 2.75 – 3.5 mm
• Adjust needle size depending on desired fabric density

Designer note: For airy palantines, scarves, and shawls, this yarn pairs beautifully with extra-fine alpaca or mohair. Using larger needles creates lightweight, breathable, and exceptionally warm fabrics with a refined rustic feel.

⋔ Perfect For
• Sweaters and cardigans (Baltic, Nordic, rustic styles)
• Shawls, scarves, and wraps with heritage character
• Hats, mittens, and gloves — warm and shape-holding
• Socks and slippers (house or rustic boot socks)
• Vests, ponchos, capes, and structured outerwear
• Traditional colorwork and folk patterns
• Rustic blankets and throws
• Felting projects
• Bags, pouches, pillows, and home décor
• Structured skirts and dresses

⌁ Why This Yarn Excels
• Warmth: High lanolin content retains heat exceptionally well
• Durability: Strong, resilient fiber for long-lasting wear
• Texture: Natural rustic appearance with beautiful variation
• Softness: Comfortably wearable for a rustic wool
• Structure: Holds patterns and shapes extremely well
• Authenticity: Ideal for heritage and folk-inspired knitwear

Blending this wool with soft alpaca, mohair, or other fluffy companion yarns balances the rustic nature and transforms it into a beautifully wearable fabric while preserving its heritage soul.

⋔ Estimated Yarn Requirements (approximate)
• Hat or beanie: 100 g
• Mittens or gloves: 100 g
• Scarf or shawl: 200–300 g
• Sweater (S–M): 400–500 g
• Sweater (L–XL / oversized): 600–700 g
• Long cardigan or coat: 700–900 g
• Blanket or large throw: from 1,000 g

▣ Important Notes
▸ 100% Pure German Merino Wool for luxurious warmth
▸ Lanolin-rich for natural softness and water resistance
▸ Rustic single-ply structure with a natural sheen
▸ Small batch production ensures unique color variations
▸ Perfect for both traditional and modern projects