Handwoven Cotton Snoods | Breathable, All-Season Accessories, Made in the UK
Handwoven on a traditional floor loom in Salisbury, Wiltshire, these cotton snoods are designed for effortless, year-round wear. Unlike merino wool, cotton is naturally breathable and lightweight - comfortable in spring and summer as well as autumn and winter - making a cotton snood the most versatile snood in Emma's collection. Many of the snoods are made from organic cotton, chosen for its softness and sustainability. Each snood is a one-of-a-kind piece: the slight variations in the weave are part of what makes it individual. Prices start from £35, and every order arrives beautifully gift-wrapped.
Cotton or merino wool — which snood is right for you?
Emma makes snoods in two different fibres - cotton and merino wool, and the right choice depends on how and when you plan to wear it.
-
Choose a cotton snood if: you want something lightweight and breathable for year-round wear, if you prefer natural fibres that feel cool against the skin, or if you or the recipient has a sensitivity to wool.
-
Choose a merino wool snood if: you want maximum warmth for autumn and winter, or if you prefer the natural elasticity and drape of wool. Merino is exceptionally soft and warm, making it ideal for colder months.
Not sure? Browse the Merino Snoods page to compare.
Frequently Asked Questions — Cotton Snoods
What is a cotton snood?
A cotton snood is a circular loop of fabric worn around the neck - similar to a cowl or infinity scarf. It is pulled over the head and worn as a neck wrap with no loose ends. Made from cotton rather than wool, it is lighter and more breathable than a merino snood, making it comfortable to wear in all seasons, not just winter.
What is the difference between a cotton snood and a wool snood?
The main differences are breathability and warmth. A cotton snood is lightweight and breathable - ideal for year-round wear, including spring and summer. A merino wool snood is warmer and better suited to autumn and winter. Cotton is also a good choice for anyone with a sensitivity to wool. Both are handwoven by Emma on a floor loom in Wiltshire and are entirely one of a kind.
Are Emma's cotton snoods organic?
Many of the snoods in this collection are made from organic cotton - this is noted in the individual product descriptions. Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilisers, making it a more sustainable choice. Emma uses organic cotton as a conscious decision about the materials she works with.
Can I wear a cotton snood in summer?
Yes - cotton is naturally breathable and does not trap heat the way wool does, so a cotton snood is comfortable to wear even in warmer weather. It works particularly well as a light layer in spring or early autumn, or as a travel accessory for air-conditioned environments.
What is the difference between a snood, a cowl and an infinity scarf?
All three terms describe the same basic item - a circular loop of fabric worn around the neck. 'Snood', 'cowl' and 'infinity scarf' are used interchangeably in the UK and US. Emma uses 'snood' as her primary term, but the same pieces are sometimes also referred to as cowls or infinity scarves.
How do I wash a handwoven cotton snood?
Cotton snoods can be hand washed in cool water with a mild detergent, then laid flat to dry. Avoid the tumble dryer, which can cause shrinkage. Some cotton snoods may also be suitable for a gentle machine wash on a cool cycle - check the individual product page for specific care advice. Full guidance is on Emma's Caring for a Handweave page.
Do the cotton snoods come gift-wrapped?
Yes - every order from Emma Baker Handwoven Textiles arrives in beautiful branded gift packaging as standard. A cotton snood makes a lightweight, thoughtful gift that is easy to post and arrives looking beautiful.