Bluefaced Leicester (BFL): Knitting Properties
Bluefaced Leicester (BFL) is a long-staple British wool prized for its lustre, durability, and softness. It is one of the few "next-to-skin" wools that combines softness with the long-staple structure that resists pilling.
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Fibre characteristics
BFL fibres are 80–150 mm long (much longer than merino) with diameters of 24–26 microns. The longer staple resists pilling far better than merino while remaining soft enough for next-to-skin garments.
Lustre
BFL fibres are naturally lustrous, giving knitted fabric a subtle sheen that catches the light. Hand-dyed BFL takes dye exceptionally well, with rich, saturated colours.
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Best uses
High-wear sweaters that need to last for years. Lace shawls (the lustre shows the lace pattern beautifully). Socks, especially when blended with nylon for additional durability.
Cost
BFL is more expensive than merino but lasts substantially longer. For a sweater you want to wear weekly for ten years, BFL is often the better value despite the higher upfront cost.
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CYC | Craft Yarn Council |
Tips
- Choose BFL over merino for high-wear garments — the longer staple resists pilling.
- BFL takes hand-dye exceptionally well; the colours are richer than merino.
- Block aggressively to bring out the lustre.
In depth
Bluefaced Leicester is one of the few wools that competes with merino for softness while resisting pilling like a coarser wool. It is the workhorse fibre of the British hand-dyed wool revival of the 2000s and remains a favourite of professional knitters and serious hobbyists alike.