Question

What are the various processes involved in converting fibre into wool? Explain each step.

Answer 1

(i) Shearing: The process of removing the fleece of sheep along with a thin layer of skin is called sheering.

(ii) Scouring: In this process, sheared skin with hair is washed in tanks to remove grease & dirt.

(iii) Sorting: In sorting, the hairy skin is sent to a factory where hair of different texture is separated from each other.

(iv) Picking out the burrs from the hair: The fluffy fibres are called burrs, which are picked out from hair.

(v) Dyeing of fibres: The fibres can be dyed in various colours as the natural fleece of sheep & goats is brown or white.

(vi) Straightening, combing of fibres and rolling into yarn: The fibres are straightened, combed and rolled into yarn.