Tanning goes back centuries when people utilized animal pelts to create shelter, clothing, blankets, carriers, and more. With the domestication of sheep and goats, people began to utilize these readily sources for leather and wool over game hides.
Wool breed sheepskin hides, in particular, are relished for their signature qualities:
thermal regulating (cooling and warming as needed)
insulating
cushioning
friction reducing proteins in the fiber structure
varying densities depending on breed
soft and smooth to the touch
naturally oiled with lanolin to be dirt resistant
antimicrobial and hypoallergenic
flame resistant
spiritually grounding/connecting
naturally beautiful
For all of these reasons, sheepskins can be used in a variety of ways throughout the home.
As modern clothing, sheepskins can be cut and sewn to adorn an outfit by making custom, decorative (and insulating)
shoulder shawls
linings for hoods
mittens and other garments
As a whole hide, sheepskins add comfort and natural elements to our homes as rugs and bed throws.
Functionally, the thermal regulating attributes of wool make it a great space to relax on the ground without feeling the cold of the floor or as a cushion for a chair, bench, or stool.
Further, a thick wool hide set on top of your blankets at night can serve as a natural weighted blanket with the added benefit of keeping you both cool or warm while you sleep.
The dense, soft fibers can help further cushion a piece of furniture that may need a little something more to really make it comfortable, like
on the back of a rocking chair
the corner or back of a couch
the seat of a recliner
the back of a car seat
the base of an office chair
the top of a bench and more
The antimicrobial properties of wool, plus a layer of friction reducing proteins, naturally cushioning fiber structure, and hypoallergenic properties make sheepskins especially helpful in medical situations
as cushions for wheelchairs/on beds to relieve and prevent bed sores
to provide pressure point relief for problematic joints/nerves
to serve as a natural fiber for individuals with sensitive skin or sensory needs
Sheepskin hides make great places for babies to spend some tummy time or for children to rest on while they read and relax in their own spaces. The use of sheepskin rugs is encouraged in parenting and teaching methods like Montessori.
We’ve used them in our own homes to add
cushion to a wood bench
a natural weighted blanket to a sleeping space
a splash of color to a room
texture to a living space
a cozy rug in front of a couch or open hall
warmth and comfort to a room
new life to an antique or non-cushioned piece of furniture
a grounding, peaceful space to meditate or relax
Wool is also naturally flame resistant, so it can be placed near a fireplace for added comfort.
Pets seem to love them, too, for all the same reasons we do. Often, dogs and cats will find themselves curled up, enjoying the cushion and comfort these hides provide, naturally.
Do you have a sheepskin in your home? How do you use it? Comment below; we’d love to hear.