Blue Faced Leicester (BFL), my new favorite fiber!

In honor of adding BFL roving to my Etsy shop, here is a little profile on this wonderful fiber for your viewing pleasure.

Breed: Blue Faced Leicester (pronounced leh-ster.) Not to be confused with its coarser cousins Leicester and Border Leicester.

Micron: 24 - 28

Bradford Count: 50s - 60s

Fiber Description: Like Merino, BFL is soft enough to be worn next to the skin. But unlike Merino, with its flat/mat surface, this fiber possesses a beautiful shine and has a slightly crisp texture. BFL is also stronger than Merino and has a fine, fuzzy halo when spun.

Spinning: Many spinners consider this fiber easier to spin with than Merino, for example. As the individual fibers are longer and have a bit more 'tooth' to them, BFL isn't quite as finicky.

Felting: This fiber is very had to felt.

Uses: Good for next to skin garments and can also be used for items that might see some wear, as its fairly durable.