Rosy Green Wool Merino d'arles

In southern France, shepherds have traditionally led their herds to the lush meadows of the Alps each summer, crossing hundreds of kilometres. This centuries-old tradition of transhumance has been continued with the Merino d'Arles sheep since 1806. These sheep are a cross between the old native breeds and the Merino breed, which Louis XVI was the first to import into France from Spain. Their wool is considered to be one of the softest in Europe, at 21 microns. Rosy Green Wool sources it exclusively from certified organic farms - from animals that lead a good life.

The wool is spun and dyed by small producers in England. They take into account the special characteristics of each wool type and process it with great care and craftsmanship. Merino d'Arles’ wool has one of the strongest crimps. This means it is more loosely spun and appears to be fluffier. The result is a wonderfully lightweight yarn that is a dream to knit with. A bouncy wooly texture that is soft enough to wear against the neck.

Rosy Green Wool developed this yarn line in close collaboration with shawl superstar Melanie Berg, because she wants to ensure that the wool she uses is produced under fair conditions without harming either animals or people. Rosy Green Wool and their producers are fully GOTS certified. This is so Rosy Green Wool can guarantee that their yarns are dyed without using dangerous chemicals, under strict residue controls and controlled fair working conditions.

Can’t wait to get your hands on some Merino d’arles? Here are some pattern ideas to get you started.

Verdon by Melanie Berg
https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/verdon

Verdon is inspired by the seasonal migration of this traditional sheep breed between Alpine meadows and protected valleys like the stunning Verdon Gorge.

It’s a generous rectangular shawl knit from four different colors, using short rows to seamlessly combine textures like stripes and lace into a garment that captures the steep lines and beautiful color play of the Verdon Gorge itself.

La Crau by Melanie Berg
https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/la-crau

For centuries migratory herds of Merino d’Arles sheep and their humans have roamed the fertile countryside across France, choosing the high meadows of the Alps during the summer and the lush plains of La Crau when winter’s chill hits.

This asymmetrical triangle shawl pays tribute to the breed with a playful mosaic stitch pattern and contrast of summery and wintery hues.

Tamaris by Katrin Schneider
https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/tamaris

This boxy sweater is worked from the bottom up to the armhole. The front and back are worked separately to the neckline and shoulder. Stitches are picked up along the neck and a small neckband is worked. For the sleeves, stitches are picked up along the armhole and the sleeves are worked top down to the cuffs. The front is worked in a lace pattern which is easy to memorize. The back and the sleeves are worked in Stockinette stitch.

Delightful by Matilda Kruse
https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/delightful-3

Delightful is a shawl for concentration and meditation – but mostly for relaxation. The initial lace panel requires your full attention and will help you to let go of negative thoughts and stress. Once the lace is finished the rest of the shawl is just knits and purls which will give you the flow to relax and a peaceful state of mind.