Neulana Air fabric. Picture: The Woolmark Company

A NEW range of pre-stretched pure wool and wool-blend fabrics has been developed through Australian Wool Innovation’s collaboration with one of China’s leading textile enterprises, The Nanshan Group.

The two textile innovation companies have joined forces to launch Neulana – a new range of 100 percent Merino wool and wool-blend fabrics.

The new range comprises four different fabrics designed for producing a wide range of apparel and accessories. These include Neulana Elite for elegant and luxury suits; Neulana Protect for machine washable and weather resistant coats and jackets; Neulana Air for upper or smart casual wear, and;  Neulana Accessori for the ultimate in accessories including scarves and shawls.

Cashmere-like handle and silk-like sheen

Neulana Elite has been made from Australian Merino wool fibres on which the latest stretch technology has been applied, resulting in a lightweight woven fabric with a cashmere-like handle and a subtle silk-like sheen, AWI said.

Australian wool destined for Neulana Protect fabrics is pre-stretched and then temporally set. Following the spinning and weaving process, the fabrics super-contract during the finishing process, resulting in a significantly higher weave density. This makes Neulana Protect fabrics naturally both windproof and water resistant, AWI said.

Neulana Air is a premium woven pure wool fabric offering warmth without the weight. By using special treatment technology, a loose-yet-full structure is formed inside the yarn resulting in a resilient fabric with a loft, bounce and touch suitable for outerwear such as high-end men’s casual jackets, AWI said.

Neulana Accessori is also made from pure Australian Merino wool and has a soft, smooth handle and silky lustre to make an elegant and luxurious end product.

New fabric highlights constant innovation and development

Shandong Nanshan Fabric and Garment Company Ltd. general manager, Mr Song Riyou, said the Nanshan Group has developed a long-standing relationship with AWI over the years.

“Our close cooperation has resulted in successful achievements such as the establishment of the Wool Development Centre (WDC) and the International Wool Education Centre (IWEC).

“The Neulana new fabric collection, made from Australian Merino wool, highlights the industry’s constant innovation and development.”

The Woolmark Company’s marketing vice president for Greater China, Jeff Ma, said the AWI subsidiary of AWI is proud to continue a strong and prosperous relationship with The Nanshan Group.

“Through innovative product development, the resulting Neulana collection showcases the full potential and versatility of Australian Merino wool and celebrates the bond between the Australian wool industry and China’s textile industry.”

The Woolmark Company will exhibit the Neulana innovations at trade events such as the Intertextile Shanghai trade show. The global authority on wool will also be showcasing its latest edition of The Wool Lab, dedicated to the upcoming Autumn/Winter 2016/17 season, along with the latest innovations in Merino wool including Wool Denim and Warp-Knit Merino.

Source: Australian Wool Innovation