A handwoven merino wool scarf is a one-of-a-kind piece, woven by Emma Baker in her Salisbury studio on a traditional floor loom.
The cloth for this scarf is worked in a checked twill design using fine merino lambswool in shades of blue, burgundy, beige, brown and yellow - a rich, layered colourway that sits equally well with a winter coat or a casual jacket.
Because every inch of the fabric is woven by hand, no two scarves are identical. The piece you receive is a genuine original - not a limited edition, not a small batch, but a single unique object made with real skill and an investment of time.
Why Merino Wool?
Fine merino lambswool is one of the best fibres available for a scarf. Its fibres are significantly finer than standard wool, which means it sits softly against the skin without itching or irritating - a quality that matters when wearing something next to the neck all day. It is naturally warm without feeling heavy, breathes well across different temperatures, and is remarkably resilient: a well-made merino scarf, cared for properly, will last for many years.
The Twill Weave
The scarf is woven in a twill structure - a technique that creates a diagonal rib across the surface of the cloth. Twill is valued both for its visual interest and its practical properties: it drapes more fluidly than a plain weave and has a natural softness that improves with wear. The checked design is created by alternating the colours across both the warp and the weft, producing the characteristic block pattern that gives the scarf its distinctive character.
Dimensions and Finish
The scarf measures 41cm wide and 166cm long - a generous width that can be worn wrapped, draped, or folded. Each end is finished with a short 1cm fringe, a traditional and intentional detail that is characteristic of handwoven cloth rather than a defect.
A Significant Gift
This scarf is the kind of gift that is remembered. It arrives in a branded gold gift box, presented and ready to give. It is well suited to milestone occasions: a significant birthday, a retirement, a thank-you for someone who is genuinely difficult to buy for. When you buy from Emma Baker Handwoven Textiles, you are buying directly from the maker - a piece with real provenance and a story worth telling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will merino wool itch?
No. Fine merino lambswool has a much smaller fibre diameter than standard wool, which means the fibres bend against the skin rather than prickling it. Most people who find ordinary wool uncomfortable can wear merino wool without any irritation.
How do I wash a merino wool scarf?
Handwash very gently in warm water with minimal agitation, using a wool-safe detergent. Rinse once, then press gently in a towel to remove excess water and dry flat. Do not machine wash, tumble dry, or wring. With proper care, a merino wool scarf will last for many years.
What is the fringe at the ends?
The 1cm fringe at each end of the scarf is a deliberate, traditional finish. It is created naturally at the point where the woven cloth is cut from the loom, and is a characteristic detail of handwoven textiles.
Is this scarf made in the UK?
Yes. The scarf is designed and handwoven by Emma Baker in her studio in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. Emma Baker Handwoven Textiles ships to the UK, Canada, and the USA.