There are several breeds of sheep in Europe known for their long, luxurious hair, and their skins are popular for use in rugs, bedspreads and other decorative items.
Here are some of the most noteworthy:
Gotland Sheepskins: This breed comes from the Swedish island of Gotland and is famous for its long, shiny wool. Gotland sheepskins are available in a variety of natural colors, including white, gray, brown and black.
Icelandic Sheepskins: Icelandic sheep are a hardy breed that has adapted to the harsh Icelandic climate. The bristles are long, thick and waterproof, making them ideal for outdoor use. Icelandic sheepskins are usually white or cream in color.
Dutch sheepskin and Texel: They are distinguished by long, thick hair that is extremely soft and pleasant to the touch. These leathers are also very warm and durable, making them an ideal choice for use in the home. They are available in a variety of colors including white, black, brown and gray.
Texel sheepskins are soft and fluffy and available in a variety of colors including white, cream and gray.
When choosing European longhair sheepskin it is important to consider the size, color and type of wool you are looking for. You should also ensure that the sheepskin has been ethically sourced and tanned.