Paihamu Wild-Wool and Eco-Luxury Fur

Have you heard of the reduce, reuse, and recycle plan in New Zealand that ultimately satisfies your desire for soft, natural fiber products, including eco-luxury fur pillows, throws, and rugs? Thanks to a non-native furry creature threatening the ecosystem of the country, Eco-Luxury Fur, LLC offers consumers a 100% natural fiber product consisting of 60% merino wool and 40% Paihamu fiber. When spun together, a cashmere-like fabric is produced with softer, warmer, and lighter qualities than plain wool. What is Paihamu? Known as the "Australian Brushtail possum" outside of New Zealand, manufacturers and the industry chose to use the Maori word Paihamu to avoid confusion with the American possum – a completely different species in appearance and fur quality. Known as the largest of all possum species, Paihamu are nocturnal, semi-arboreal marsupials with pink noses, pointy snouts, and long whiskers. During the fur trade rush of the 1800s, Paihamu first came to New Zealand by way of Australia. Unfortunately, the critter thrived a little too well with an estimated 70 million roaming the country, outnumbering New Zealanders 17 to 1. At night, Paihamu destroy about 20,000 tons of vegetation throughout the country, including many native forest plants and precious eucalyptus leaves. The creature also poses a threat to wildlife habits, native animals, and domesticated animals, including birds and cattle (with the transmission of tuberculosis). Wild-Wool Accessories & Goods Against the skin, the softness and warmth of Paihamu products is impressive with inviting colors that adds an upscale touch to bedrooms, dens, and living rooms. The Paihamu and wool blend also accommodates consumers with sensitive skin, bringing what Eco-Luxury Fur likes to call the 'prickle factor' close to zero. The natural fibers are also believed to be hypoallergenic. A sample of items include the over-sized Basketweave Throw ($225) measuring 62" x 58" that comes in Oatmeal, Denim Blue, Heathered Teal, and Black, and the Scallop Edged Wrap/Throw ($95) offers a decorative fringe in Oatmeal, Heathered Teal (shown above), and Black. Other Wild-Wool products to consider include a selection of Unisex Ribbed Scarves, Ribbed Hats, Gloves, and Wool Socks. Eco-Luxury Fur According to Eco Luxury Fur, LLC, the Paihamu has the distinction of being named the third warmest fur with a light composition that not only delivers soft, silky luxury, but also helps ease a highly aggressive ecological threat in New Zealand. When browsing eco-luxury fur products, a few standouts include: Small Pillow ($100) and Large Pillow ($250) – Accent piece for bed or couch. Chair Throw ($1250) – (shown) Room accent piece that cozily accommodates one to two people. King Shorn Throw ($2800) – Sheared fur with unforgettable caramel and soft gray tones. Large Rug ($1900) – Raw-edged and unlined, this rug that also doubles as a throw, is made with treated suede backing. The Lowdown on Wild-Wool and Eco-Luxury Products

• All clothing and household goods are 100% sourced and manufactured in New Zealand.
• All Wild-Wool products are washable.
• All fur is humanely collected (and not farmed), which in turn provides employment in rural areas. The company spares the animals from an inhumane and wasteful end. They also contribute to the protection of the environment by averting potentially toxic alternatives, including a substance banned in the United States, which not only kills the Paihamu, but also takes the lives of dogs, cattle, and other innocent animals.
• Fibers are minimally processed, renewable, durable, reusable, and biodegradable.
• No pesticides, insecticides, or fertilizers are used in the production of fibers.

If you're interested in learning more about the ecological profile of Wild-Wool or would like to request more information, contact info@eco-luxuryfur.com or 503-635-0002. Eco-Luxury Fur, LLC 333 S. State Street, Suite V-446 Lake Oswego, OR 97034 chrys@eco-luxuryfur.com Image Credits: Grace Studio, Eco-Luxury Fur