FAQ's - Welsh Blankets

A Welsh blanket, traditionally called a carthen (plural carthenni), is a wool blanket woven in Wales known for its distinctive geometric patterns, durability, warmth, and heritage.

All TirGlas blankets are woven in Wales with 100% British wool. Many are woven with tapestry style patterns such as the Caernarfon Portcullis pattern.

Well, we think so! All our Welsh blankets,

• Are designed and woven in Wales.
• Use traditional Welsh patterns, for example the Caernarfon portcullis pattern or honeycomb weaves.
• are woven with NEW British wool in limited numbers and NOT mass-produced.
• are woven with the traditional 'double cloth weave' which produces fully reversible blankets.

Tradition and heritage are import to us. Our blankets are woven by skilled craftsmen and women in limited numbers.

Generally "No" and TirGlas blankets are not handwoven.

They are woven on traditional looms in Welsh mills, combining manual skill with mechanical precision. They are woven in limited numbers and are not mass-produced.

This is a large subject in its own right. For more detail visit, Welsh Blankets History, more...

Welsh blankets are a treasured part of Welsh culture, celebrated for their unique patterns and expert woven craftsmanship. Dating back hundreds of years, the wool industry was once a key part of Wales’s economy. Although it declined in the 20th century, the tradition has made a strong comeback. Today, Welsh blankets are in high demand worldwide, admired for their warmth, durability, and timeless designs like the Caernarfon Portcullis pattern.

All TirGlas blankets are made from 100%, new wool - they are not 'vintage', used or second-hand wool. Wool is known for its warmth, breathability and durability.

Wool is a natural, biodegradable and renewable product - plastic free and eco-friendly!

Welsh blankets are renowned for their traditional and distinctive patterns, craftsmanship, and heritage. Tapestry style blankets are woven using the double cloth technique creating reversible designs and extra warmth.

Authentic Welsh blankets are woven in Wales, often by family-owned mills using traditional methods. All TirGlas blankets are woven by a small handful of mills in Wales.

They are woven using skilled craftsmanship, natural wool and traditional techniques that produce durable, long-lasting textiles. The blankets are woven on age-old looms and are not mass-produced.(Discover all Welsh Blankets)

Double cloth weaving is a traditional technique used in many Welsh blankets, in particular tapestry style Welsh blankets. All our Welsh tapestry style blankets use double cloth weaving.

Double cloth involves weaving two separate layers of wool fabric at the same time, one above the other, on a loom. These layers are interconnected at certain points, which allows them to act as a single, thicker wool blanket.

Because two layers of threads are used - each with potentially different colours - the resulting blanket is reversible, with a mirrored or contrasting version of the pattern on each side. This gives the blanket a rich, dimensional look with extra versatility and warmth. (more…)

A waffle or honeycomb weave blanket is a woollen blanket woven with a textured, grid-like pattern. They actually do look like a honeycomb or a waffle!!

Waffle blankets creates small square pockets that trap air, making the blankets warm yet breathable. Our waffle blanket are woven with wool and are postively sumptuous. Waffle blankets are versatile for layering on beds or sofas and add a stylish, textured look to home décor. They are popular for their comfort, practicality, and aesthetic appeal.

A genuine Welsh blanket is an artisan product that has had considerable input by hand from a weaver. The blankets will be woven on weaving 'machines' or looms. Some of these looms will be over 100 years old. Prices will depend on the source of the wool and its size.

All TirGlas blankets are made from 100% new British wool and range from £75 to £250.

Yes. They make thoughtful, high-quality gifts for weddings, new homes, birthdays and other special occasions.

Yes, wool is an excellent natural insulator, and the double-cloth weave adds extra thickness, making Welsh blankets exceptionally warm and cosy for cold seasons.

Honeycomb or lighter throws are ideal for all seasons, while tapestry weaves give extra winter warmth.

Keep your Welsh wool blanket beautiful for years by following these care tips. For light dust, simply shake and air it. Spot clean small stains with mild wool detergent and cool water, blotting gently. For a full wash, hand washing or dry cleaning are recommended. Hand wash separately in cool water with a wool-specific detergent, avoiding wringing. Dry flat and away from direct heat or sunlight. Never tumble dry. Dry cleaning is the safest option, especially for a complete clean, as incorrect washing can damage the blanket. How to clean Welsh Blankets

Caring for Welsh wool blankets will keep your blanket beautiful for years. For light dust, simply shake and air it. Spot clean small stains with mild wool detergent and cool water, blotting gently. For a full wash, hand washing or dry cleaning are recommended. Hand wash separately in cool water with a wool-specific detergent, avoiding wringing. Dry flat and away from direct heat or sunlight. Never tumble dry. Dry cleaning is the safest option, especially for a complete clean, as incorrect washing can damage the blanket. How to clean Welsh Blankets

Not really is the best and safest answer. If the whole blanket needs a clean, dry cleaning is the best option. Welsh blankets should be treated with care. Most can be spot cleaned and this should be attempted before a machine wash is tried.

Machine washing is possible on a cold, delicate, or hand wash cycle using a wool-specific detergent, but it should be done carefully and separately to avoid damage. Use a slow spin to remove excess water but avoid heat to prevent shrinking or felting. Do not use a tumble dryer to dry the blanket. How to clean Welsh Blankets

Not really is the best and safest answer. If the whole blanket needs a clean, dry cleaning is the best option. Welsh blankets should be treated with care. Most can be spot cleaned and this should be attempted before a machine wash is tried.

Machine washing is possible on a cold, delicate, or hand wash cycle using a wool-specific detergent, but it should be done carefully and separately to avoid damage. Use a slow spin to remove excess water but avoid heat to prevent shrinking or felting. Do not use a tumble dryer to dry the blanket. How to clean Welsh Blankets

Never tumble dry a wool blanket. After washing, gently press out excess water (don’t wring), then lay it flat on a dry towel or rack to air dry, reshaping it as needed. Avoid direct sunlight or placing it near a radiator, as excessive heat can damage the fibres. Do not iron wool blankets.

Sadly, moths are attracted to wool in general and that means your Welsh blankets too! Taking measures to stop moths is a year around task but maybe slightly worse during the summer months.

It is possible to use natural deterrents to get rid of moths, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals. The main natural moth repellents are cedar wood blocks or pellets and Lavender sachets. Other herbs, such as Rosemary, Mint and Thyme are also natural repellents. Natural Moth Repellents