Wool graded by skilled craftsmen
The annual Norwegian wool clip is more than 4,000 tons. Norilia handles nearly 80% of this volume. We have eight grading stations around the country, where each individual fleece is looked at and graded manually by skilled craftsmen.
The Norwegian Wool standard
Wool is classified in accordance with the Norwegian Wool Standard. This standard comprises sixteen quality classifications. The type of wool (breed) and the length of the wool (when has the sheep been shorn) form the basis for the classification.
The main quality categories are:
• Quality category A: White crossbred wool, full year growth
• Quality category B: White crossbred wool and wool from Norwegian spæl sheep, shorn in spring
• Quality category C: Crossbred wool, shorn in autumn
• Quality category F: Wool of Norwegian spæl sheep, shorn in autumn
Quality assessment
Every single fleece is assessed and classified for quality, in addition to type and length. Wool classifiers assess quality parameters linked to breeding: wool type, length, fiber fineness, pigments, crimp, luster, and shine. The absence of medulla and dead hair increases the quality of the wool. Environmental factors such as the presence of vegetable matter in the wool and discoloration also influence the quality classification.
Skilled craftsmen
In order to become a wool classifier, extensive training is required, and theoretical and practical exams must be passed. Training occurs under the watchful eye of an experienced classifier. A trainee will classify wool throughout all seasons of the year before being allowed to take the exams – this means it takes around one year before enough experience is obtained to become a skilled and licensed classifier.
You can read more about the Norwegian Wool Standard here.
