Churro
Churro (Navajo-Churro) sheep have long been raised by the Navajo people. However, their numbers have diminished greatly over the years due to cross-breedings and government-sponsored herd reductions. Now they are now one of the rarest breeds in North America.
Churro sheep are a double-coated breed, with an softer inner coat and a coarser, hair-like outer coat. The inner layer of a Churro fleece will have staple length of approximately 3-5 inches with a micron count of about 10-36 microns (more typically in the range of 28-36). The outer coat of a Churro fleece can have a staple length as long as 6-12 inches, but it is much coarser than the inner coat, with micron counts above 35 (typically in the range of 48-56). Churro wool can be spun “in the grease” more easily than some other varieties of wool, due to its low amount of lanolin. Churro fiber has a silky texture, and has little crimp.
If there are any current auctions on eBay for Churro fleece or rovings, you’ll find them listed below. Click a picture or description to get more information or to place your bid.
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churro wool roving - white, black, medium and dark gray US $5.00 (0 Bid) End Date: Saturday Nov-22-2008 12:29:48 PST Bid now | Add to watch list |
Churro wool is strong and durable, and is probably most often used for weaving rugs. However, Churro fiber with a lower micron count works well for socks and outer garments. Navajo-Churro fleeces can be found in a huge variety of natural colors, including white, various shades of brown (ranging from light beige and tan to reddish brown and dark brown), light and dark grey, and black.