To find specific niche types of sweaters, such as the Fair Isle (more on different types of sweaters below), you may need to do some research. In the end, you may have to pay a premium for a custom-made sweater to get what you’re looking for. 

With sweaters, like so many other things in life, “you get what you pay for.” It’s very unlikely that you’ll find a stylish, well-made thick wool sweater on the clearance rack. That said, you might be surprised at what you can find for cheap at thrift stores and second-hand shops. 

How to Care for Sweaters?

Don’t wash your sweater unless it really needs it. All clothes wear out to some degree when washed, but this is especially so for knit garments. 

If you have a stain, do a quick spot treatment.

If that doesn’t work or if the sweater is soiled, try handwashing it, using a mild detergent and cold water. (If it’s a wool sweater, make sure the detergent is safe for wool). Hang dry. 

Some sweaters you can throw in the washing machine, generally washing on a cold, delicate cycle (follow the label). Be careful when putting wool sweaters in the wash because if they still have their natural protective oils — lanolin — detergent can strip them away.

Again, it’s best to let it hang dry. Don’t put your sweater in the dryer because doing so can cause it to shrink.

Depending on what the label says and your comfort level, you may need to take your sweater to be cleaned by a professional. If possible, look for dry cleaners that specialize in knits. 

After a while, it’s almost inevitable that it will start to pill (i.e., get little fuzzies all over). You can use a disposable razor to carefully “shave” the sweater to remove pilling. You could also utilize a special fabric shaver tool for the same purpose.