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Wool is a very important product in Iceland, since Iceland has a significant sheep population. It therefore forms a major source of revenue through export and aids the economy of Iceland.
Iceland has a history of spinning and knitting which dates back to the times of the Vikings. Before the nineteenth century, it was usually spun by hand. In present times it is usually machine-spun.
Descending from the Viking sheep and with no forms of contact from any other species and breed of sheep, the Icelandic sheep is one of the purest breeds of sheep in the World. The quality of wool produced is therefore is of a very high standard. Lighter than most other wools, it is also warmer, has a rich texture, and has a variety of natural colors.
The Icelandic wool is made of two types of hair, one tough and strong which is called the "tog", the other fine and soft which is called the "thel". These are used to make different kinds of woolen garments and sweaters which are comfortable, warm and water-resistant. For these qualities, Icelandic woolen garments have great demand in the rest of the world.
The Icelandic economy being mainly an export-driven one, the export of Icelandic wool is an integral part of the country's economy, and forms a significant percentage of the countries export revenues. Woolen garments from Iceland are sold in stores all over the world, and are also widely available on the Internet.
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