Ístex is a wool processing company that aims to create the most value from Icelandic wool producing high-quality products for those who choose natural, sustainable, and environmentally friendly products. The company is built on a tradition that dates back to late 19th century, and the unique properties of Icelandic wool are reflected in the company’s diverse products.
It Began with Hot Water and Stubborn People
“Ístex buys wool directly from farmers, and over 80% of the company is owned by farmers,” explains Sigurður Sævar Gunnarsson, CEO of Ístex. The company’s headquarters are in Mosfellsbær, where wool processing has been continuous since 1896, previously under the name Álafoss. Ístex took over the operation in 1991, and the company washes and processes about 99% of all Icelandic wool.
“The key to Icelandic wool processing is hot water and stubborn people,” says Sigurður with a smile, referring to the hot water that flowed through narrow basin at Álafosskvos which enabled people to begin washing and processing wool at the end of the 19th century. “The company in its current form was founded in 1991, decidedly against the odds because there was severe economic recession, bankruptcies were common, and synthetic fabric dominated the market. But people did not give up,” he adds. Icelandic stubbornness over the decades has certainly paid off because Icelandic wool is today a world-renowned product and sought after for its unique properties.
Wool Yarn and Indispensable Blankets
Ístex produces hand-knitting yarn in a total of seven different versions from Icelandic wool yarn, including Álafosslopi, Einband, Jöklalopi, Léttlopi, and Plötulopi. “The versions have different properties and are therefore suitable for various knitting projects,” Sigurður points out. “For example, Álafosslopi is warm and suitable for outdoor clothing, while Fjallalopi, which is our newest yarn, is thinner and therefore well suited for delicate and lightweight garments. Hosuband is a version especially durable and is therefore great for socks.”
Ístex also publishes hand-knitting books with diverse designs. The latest is number 43 in the series and is titled “Skýjaborgir” or In the Clouds. It includes patterns for a variety of sweaters and other knitted garments, designed by artist Védís Jónsdóttir. Védís is also the designer behind most of the wool blankets from Ístex, available in various colours and patterns. “Our blankets have been exceptionally popular as gifts since they are Icelandic designs made from Icelandic wool,” says Sigurður. “Icelandic woollen blankets are an essential item in every home. Everyone should own at least one good blanket.”
Unique Icelandic Wool Duvets
Ístex has also started producing duvets and pillows from Icelandic wool under the name Lopidraumur. The company buys the wool directly from farmers, and it is STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified. “Wool is actually an excellent material for duvets and pillows because research has shown that wool products improve sleep,” says Sigurður. “Icelandic wool is temperature regulating because it has the property of maintaining a unique moisture balance, thus maintaining a comfortable temperature. This breathability ensures a good sleep regardless of temperature, and the duvet is therefore suitable for all seasons.”
