How Fiber Processing Works

From raw fleece to finished product

Fiber processing follows a consistent sequence regardless of the mill. Here is the short version — for the full walkthrough with costs at each step, read our detailed guide: What Happens When You Send Fiber to a Mill.

The processing steps

  1. Scouring — Raw fleece is washed in hot water to remove lanolin, dirt, and debris. Expect to lose 30 to 50 percent of the weight. Cost: $5 to $12 per pound of raw weight.
  2. Picking — Washed fiber is pulled apart and opened up, removing remaining vegetable matter. Not all mills charge separately for this step.
  3. Carding — Fiber passes through wire-covered rollers that blend and align it. The output is either roving (a rope) or batts (flat sheets). Cost: $11 to $27 per pound.
  4. Spinning (if ordered) — Roving is drafted and twisted into yarn, then plied for strength. Finer weights cost more. Cost: $23 to $45 per pound of finished yarn.
  5. Finishing — Yarn is steamed or washed to set the twist, then wound into skeins or onto cones.

Full processing from raw fleece to finished 2-ply yarn typically runs $40 to $65 per pound.

How long it takes

Typical turnaround is 6 to 16 weeks. Spring and early summer (post-shearing season) is the busiest time — a mill quoting 8 weeks in November might quote 16 weeks in May. Always confirm turnaround before sending fiber.

What you get back

Depending on what you ordered: roving in bumps or braids, batts in stacked sheets, or yarn in skeins or on cones. Finished weight will always be less than what you sent — raw-to-finished loss of 40 to 60 percent is normal.

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