A new wool dyeing process that adds vibrant colours to woollen fabrics has been recently developed by New Zealand-based technology firm Ag Research Lincoln. Dr. Stewart Collie, a textile scientist and leading this process, claims that this development will revolutionize the way Merino wool is dyed as it makes the wool look better and feel very pleasant next to the skin.
The uniqueness of this process is that the patterns and graphics are dyed in the fabric itself instead of being printed on top, thus making the garment long lasting and machine washable. With endless variations possible, this can be done in different weights of fabrics with limitless designs and enables the ability to choose colours and designs beforehand, allowing more flexibility in the marketing of garments, thus reducing the risk for both manufacturers and retailers.
The process is being commercialized in collaboration with BGI Developments, who will look after large-scale manufacturing and export of multi-coloured fine Merino wool fabrics. Owing to its novel properties, this has set a new standard of quality wool dyeing for the future.
