World first makes wool 'look and feel sexy'

A revolutionary new dyeing process developed by AgResearch, which allows for the vibrant colouring of wool fabrics and is predicted to earn millions of dollars, is about to be commercialised by a New Zealand-based company.
BGI Developments has signed an agreement with AgResearch which will lead to the manufacture of multi-coloured fine merino wool fabrics on a major scale for the first time.
With directors in Wellington and Christchurch, BGI Developments will be working with manufacturers to commercialise the fine-wool fabric and present it to fashion houses around the world.
"These products are a world first in textile and fashion development, and an excellent example of how technology can enhance New Zealand's exports," said BGI Developments director Robyn George-Neich.
"The new colouring process developed by AgResearch means that patterns and graphics are dyed in the fabric, not just printed on top.
"The fabric looks and feels better than standard printed fabric because it doesn't have plastic graphics on it.
"The consumer benefits because the pattern doesn't deteriorate over time. The garment feels more comfortable and maintains its appearance for longer.
"When you are paying a lot of money for your merino top, you want the pattern to last as long as the garment. Now it can.
"It's an amazing development by New Zealand researchers and will revolutionise the way merino fabric is dyed.
"This will become the new norm because consumers will demand it. This is a real added value for the wool industry."
The new process has been developed by a team at AgResearch Lincoln, under the leadership of textile scientist Dr Stewart Collie. The team has been working on the technology for the past 18 months.
The process can also be used on a wide range of fabrics, is lightweight and machine washable.
"What manufacturers and fashion designers really like about this new process is the ability to choose colours and designs just before entering the market. This allows much more flexible marketing of garments, reducing risk for manufacturer and retailer alike."
Dr Collie says the dyeing process produces a fine wool garment that feels pleasant next to the skin.
"Quite frankly it makes wool look and feel sexy," he said. "It's a world away from Fred Dagg's prickly black singlets, and helps bring brightly coloured dyed wool fashion into the 21st century."
Dr Collie says BGI Developments is contracted to commercialise the new dyeing process with manufacturers here and overseas.
"Judging by the response of New Zealand fashion designers, there's a great deal of interest in manufacturing patterned wool garments using this technology. I'm optimistic about its uptake by the industry."