Sheepskin offcuts are something that people often don’t give a second thought to, discarding the ‘funny-looking things’ into the dustbin because, at first glance, that seems like the logical thing to do.
Well, that’s understandable and fair, as the vast majority of people don’t know how to use them.
At Sheepers, however, we take our sheepskin offcuts very seriously and put them to really good use. In fact, many of our products are made sustainably from sheepskin offcuts, providing the same amazing benefits as any luxurious sheepskin rug or slippers, but at a fraction of the cost.
With global warming rising rapidly, we ought to do everything we can to cut down waste as much as possible. What goes into your trash as “trash” may be another man’s treasure!
When it comes to wool, there’s no such thing as trash. Sustainable natural materials like sheepskin offcuts are something the world could use more of. Here’s how you can put those offcuts to really good use:
7 clever ways to use sheepskin offcuts
1. Make clothing and accessories
Did you know that sheepskin offcuts can be used to make clothing items like slippers, hats, and gloves? Many of our products are made from sheepskin offcuts, such as this elegant sheepskin hot water bottle that’s suitable for both cold and warm months. Sheepskin offcuts can also be used to make accessories like keychains, bags, jewellery, etc.
Astonishing, to say the least!
2. Cleaning and polishing
We’ve seen many people use sheepskin offcuts for cleaning and polishing things around their house (including ourselves). Why? Because they’re really gentle on surfaces and have proven highly useful in cleaning delicate items, such as eyeglasses, electronics, and jewellery.
Additionally, sheepskin offcuts may be used to polish everything from leather goods and shoes to wooden furniture, and other similar items.
3. Medical and therapeutic properties
Sheepskin offcuts have long been used in medical and therapeutic settings. For example, they are used as padding in wheelchair seats, and for patients who are bedridden or need to have pressure alleviated in order to prevent sores.
Sheepskin boasts natural properties such as optimal breathability and moisture-wicking, both of which make it highly suitable for the above applications.
4. Pet bedding
Sheepskin offcuts can be extremely comfortable, warm, and cosy bedding for pets. They provide lots of cushioning and insulation, so they’re great for pet beds and crates. This black and white sheepskin pet bed made from 100% sheepskin, for example, will likely make your pet fall in love with it, not only due to the luxurious material but also the fact that it regulates the pet bed’s temperature, preventing overheating, and keeping your pet cosy and comfortable.
5. Crafts and DIY
Sheepskin products may be used in various kinds of crafts and DIY projects, such as making rugs, pillows, cushions, and blankets. Not only that, but they can be used for upholstery as well which will certainly add a soft, elegant, and luxurious touch to your furniture.
This Beige Woven Sheepskin Rug has been handmade sustainably from 100% sheep leather offcuts, effortlessly insulating the floor from cold weather. It can easily uplift any home décor where the natural wool can add incredible texture to your interior as well, providing you and your loved ones with many health-boosting properties.
6. Soundproofing and insulation
Sheepskin offcuts have long been used for soundproofing and insulation projects, both at home and in offices. They can be easily placed on floors, walls, and ceilings to absorb loud sounds and significantly reduce noise levels.
Moreover sheepskin’s natural insulating properties make it very useful in insulating doors and windows, as well as other areas within a property where heat or cold might escape. Interestingly, sheepskin can also keep your drinks cooler and your coffee warmer for longer.
7. Gardening and horticulture
Sheepskin offcuts can be cleverly used in both gardening and horticulture – for instance, under plants in order to absorb excess water and prevent surfaces from taking water damage. They can even be used as ground cover to retain moisture or to curb weed growth.
Sheepskin has also proven to be very effective when it comes to improving the soil in your garden, making it more aerated, retain more water, livelier, and more fertile.
All in all, sheepskin offcuts boast a broad range of uses, some of which we have discussed above. From crafts and medical applications to clothing and everyday practical uses, their warmth, softness, and natural properties make them very valuable and versatile materials. It’s fair to say that you’ll probably think twice before discarding those precious sheepskin offcuts. What you’re about to discard can be turned into a real treasure, so to speak.
By choosing not to throw away sheepskin offcuts, you are effectively embracing your creative side and improving the environment. So many incredible projects can be created with these sheepskin scraps. When it comes to creatively using sheepskin offcuts, you are only limited by your own imaginations. From cushion trimmings and fluffy draft excluders to soft furnishings and even sheepskin costumes for school plays or fancy dress parties, there are lots of ways you can have fun while putting sheepskin offcuts to good use.
One of the best attributes of 100% sheepskin is that it keeps you warm and cosy in the winter, and cool as well as comfortable in the non-winter months. Let your imagination run wild with the above sheepskin offcuts ideas!
Bonus: Benefits of choosing natural sheepskin over other materials
- Sheepskin is very baby-friendly – not only is it a safe and comfortable material for rugs and carpets but also to line the baby’s cot or pram with. Since it’s a naturally tanned product, it is safe for every kind of baby and child.
- Sheepskin never lets you get too hot or too cold, so it’s perfect for everything from seat covers to rugs to chair throws.
- Anything made from sheepskin resists dirt and bacteria, and has self-cleaning qualities, so they purify the air in a way.
Most of our products at Sheepers are made from 100% sheepskin offcuts, keeping your health and the environment at the forefront.