Throws

Throw is a catch-all word that embraces everything from a shawl to a small blanket, so they have as many uses as you can think of!

A throw can be used as a shawl when you put the cat out before you go to bed, and they can be put on the bed for extra warmth when the central heating struggles against a cold snap. One person suggested draping a throw over a birdcage to keep the parrot quiet.

They also work for picnics, on patio chairs or can just be left looking beautiful, like a cat, but without the food bill.

Our throws measure 138 cm (54 inches) by 200 cm (78 inches). They have either purled or twisted fringes and will certainly keep you warm.

We have four basic styles all of which are very different. Those that can be used as shawls or wraps usually use wool from Jacob, Shetland or Manx sheep; those for stylish interior use come in Shetland, Texel, Manx or a blend of Jacob and mohair; for picnic and garden use we chose either Texel, Castelmilk Moorit, Portland, Black Welsh Mountain, Ronaldsay or Zwartbles; and the most hard wearing, for the car, outdoor use and for pets, we opt for Castelmilk Moorit, Portland or Black Welsh Mountain.

Some of these, notably those that use specialist or rare breeds of sheep, are in short supply. There may be 24 million sheep in the UK, but there are only a few thousand of some of the breeds whose wool we like best. To choose a throw, click here.