About the Icelandic sheepskins
The origins of Icelandic sheepskins are as fascinating as the skins themselves. The history of sheep farming in Iceland dates back to the time of the Vikings, around the 9th century. These early settlers brought their Norse sheep to the island, which evolved over the centuries and adapted to the harsh, Icelandic climate. Known for their incredible resistance to the cold, these sheep have a double coat consisting of covering hairs and a fine, warm undercoat. It is this unique combination that makes Icelandic sheepskins so special.
Over the centuries, Icelanders have developed a strong bond with this breed of sheep, they are not only a source of wool and food, but also part of Icelandic culture and economy. Iceland's isolation has ensured that the sheep have undergone little to no crossbreeding with other breeds, preserving the purity and unique characteristics of Icelandic sheepskin.
How Iceland's unique environment contributes to sheepskin quality
The quality of Icelandic sheepskins is determined not only by genetic factors, but also by the unique environment in which the sheep live. Iceland is characterized by its rugged landscape, clean air, and abundance of pure water. These elements combine to create a natural environment that contributes to the health and quality of the wool.
During the summer months, sheep graze freely in the vast, untouched nature of Iceland. They feed on the wild grasses, herbs, and moss that are rich in nutrients. This natural diet plays a crucial role in the development of their thick, shiny coats. In addition, exposure to the elements causes the sheep to develop a robust coat that protects them from the cold, wet climate.
Iceland's harsh winters ensure that only the strongest and healthiest sheep survive, contributing to the exceptional quality of Icelandic sheepskin. These coats are not only thicker and warmer, but also contain lanolin (wool fat), which makes the wool water-repellent and self-cleaning.
In essence, the origin of Icelandic sheepskins is a story of survival, adaptation, and natural beauty. These furs are a direct reflection of the rugged, pure beauty of Iceland itself, bringing a piece of this unique culture and environment into our daily lives.
How can you use an Icelander sheepskin?
The versatility of Icelandic sheepskins is as impressive as its origins. Not only are these furs a marvel of natural beauty and comfort, but they also offer a range of uses that are both practical and enriching for your interior.
1. As a warm and cozy addition to your sofa and chairs
Lay an Icelander sheepskin over your favorite chair or sofa to add a sense of luxury and comfort. An Icelander fleece not only brings warmth and ambiance, but it also adds an extra layer of softness, making your sitting experience even more comfortable.
2. Use the fur as a rug, start the day with warm feet
Start the day off right on a soft, warm note. Put an Icelander sheepskin next to your bed and let your feet land on a plush, comfortably warm and woolly floor every morning. It's a small addition that makes a big difference in how you start your day.
3. Bring more warmth and atmosphere to your interior
Use the fleece as a mood enhancer in your interior. Lay a beautiful Icelandic sheepskin on the floor, for example in your living room, bedroom or sitting room. You can also put the fleece over a chest or side table for that elegant look. The natural beauty of an Icelander sheepskin fits into any interior style.
4. Bring peace and calm into your meditation space
Create a serene, peaceful corner in your home for meditation or yoga. An Icelander sheepskin on the floor can serve as a soft, insulating surface, giving you a comfortable place to relax and unwind.
5. For warmer feet during cold nights
Place an Icelandic sheepskin at the foot of your bed to add extra warmth during cold nights. Not only does it serve as an extra layer of insulation, but it also adds warmth and ambiance to your bedroom.
The possibilities for using an Icelander sheepskin are as vast as your own creativity. Whether adding comfort to your daily life or enriching your interior with natural beauty.
What colors of Icelandic sheepskin are there?
In our extensive collection you can find a wide range of natural colors. Our Icelandic furs are real natural products and the diversity is therefore very extensive. These furs always bring with them a wonderful softness and warmth. The nice thing about these sheepskins is that they are all unique and each coat has its own unique color, shape and size. So you always have an Icelander coat that no one else has. To be able to offer you the best and most beautiful quality I always personally select the furs. Be surprised by an extensive collection with natural colors such as:
What sizes of Icelandic sheepskin are there?
Each Icelandic sheepskin you see is completely unique in color but also in size. These fleeces are mostly available in the sizes Medium(M), Large(L), Extra Large(XL) and Extra Extra Large(XXL). Each sheepskin is photographed individually so that you always have a good picture of the sheepskin in question. They are also measured individually. This allows you to check at home whether the desired sheepskin will fit your favorite place. This helps you to make a better choice for the perfect Icelandic fleece for your interior. If you are looking for a specific size, such as a Large coat, you can easily find it by filtering or viewing the entire selection of Large coats. To make it easier for you I have also categorized all sheepskins by size. For when you very specifically want a certain size:
Looking for Icelander sheepskin interior design inspirations?
Would you like to use an Icelandic sheepskin in your interior but you are not quite sure how or which color is best? Get inspired by the most beautiful interiors of our customers. Would you like even more inspiration? Take a look at our inspiration room.
A unique tanning process that gives our Icelander coats a silky feel and a pleasant smell.
Our Icelandic sheepskins are super supple and have a wonderfully soft wool. This is due to the special tanning process and the unique treatment. To achieve this high standard, the Icelandic fleeces are brushed several times giving them extreme softness and a beautiful sheen. The silky feel is surely one of the most pleasant aspects, you will keep stroking your sheep all day long.
Another feature of our premium Icelandic fleeces is that they have a pleasant smell. In fact, we noticed that many sheepskins on the market have a very strong buck (sheep) / farm smell. This is a typical characteristic of cheaper furs that have not been washed / cleaned properly or have gone through a limited tanning process. You don't want such a sheepskin in your home, as the smell will quickly become overpowering especially in smaller rooms. Of course this is not something you would like. You want to enjoy your sheepskin right away, right?
In cooperation with our tanneries, we looked at how to make the Icelandic sheepskins smell nice. After some adjustments in the tanning process, you can always expect our sheepskins to have a soft scent. This scent can be neutral or slightly soapy (a bit like you just did a wash). This allows you to immediately give your new Icelander sheepskin a nice spot in your interior and enjoy it.
Tips for maintaining and cleaning your Icelander sheepskin
Icelandic sheepskins are great natural products that you can enjoy for years to come. As you have read before, these furs are already naturally resistant to outside elements. The maintenance required depends on how you use the Icelander. We regularly get questions about how to keep your sheep soft and fluffy. For that, I have written detailed instructions on "sheepskin cleaning/maintenance". Would you rather read a condensed version? You can do that too, you can read it on "animal skin care".
Need help picking out your sheepskin?
Are you looking for a sheepskin for your interior but would like some extra advice or information? I would love to help you with your questions and the advice you are looking for so you can make an informed choice. Feel free to contact me at +31(0)6 17 52 13 63 during our opening hours, send an e-mail, or visit us in Boxmeer, the Netherlands - please make an appointment so you won't be standing in front of a closed door. Together we will make the perfect choice for your interior.
