Hand wash in cold water with a wool-specific detergent, or machine wash on a gentle wool cycle. Turn the garment inside out, squeeze gently, and never rub, twist, or wring. Keep the water temperature the same through washing and rinsing. Press out excess water and lay flat to dry in the shade.

No. Never tumble dry this garment — heat and agitation cause shrinkage and damage natural fibres. Squeeze out the excess water, reshape the garment while it is still damp, and lay it flat on a clean towel to dry in the shade, away from heaters and direct sun.

Does it need ironing?

Generally no. Possum merino fibres relax and the knit settles back into shape after washing and flat drying. If you do need to iron it, use a warm steam iron on the reverse side with a damp cloth between the iron and the fabric, on the wool setting.

Store it folded in a sealed bag or airtight container in a cool, dry place with good air circulation — never on a hanger, as hanging stretches natural fibres out of shape. Fold along the existing seams to avoid setting creases, and give it room rather than compressing it tightly.

How do I protect it from moths?

Store it sealed rather than open on a shelf, since clothes moths are drawn to natural fibres. Cedar blocks in storage areas repel moths naturally, and moth traps are a practical addition. Do not spray perfume or fragrance onto the garment, as the residue attracts moths. If you find moths, seal the garment in a compression bag and freeze it for one full week.

Lightly, for the first few wears. Possum fibres are short, around 1 to 2cm, and some work free from the knit after manufacturing. This is normal and temporary — shedding settles almost entirely once the garment has been worn and washed a few times. Pieces with higher possum content or a looser knit shed a little more at first.

Possum merino resists pilling better than cashmere or standard wool, because the possum fibre has a smoother surface and creates less friction between fibres. No knitted natural fibre is completely immune — friction in high-wear areas such as underarms can still produce the occasional pill over time. These pick away cleanly without damaging the knit.

Warm for its weight. Possum fur is a hollow fibre that traps air inside each strand, so possum merino insulates without the bulk of heavier knitwear. How warm any single piece feels also depends on its knit and weight — check the warmth rating listed on this page for this garment.

No. It is knitted with fine merino wool, which is soft against the skin and does not have the prickle of coarser wool. The possum fibre adds softness rather than scratchiness. Individual sensitivity varies, but possum merino is chosen for its handle rather than tolerated despite it.

Is it good for travel?

Yes. Possum merino is light for the warmth it gives and packs down small, so it earns its space in a bag. The natural fibres also regulate temperature across changing climates, which makes one piece work across a wider range of conditions than a heavier knit would.

Made from 65% New Zealand Fine Merino Wool, 25% New Zealand Possum Fur, 10% Mulberry Silk. The possum fur and merino wool are New Zealand-sourced, and the possum fur comes from pest control rather than farming. The mulberry silk is imported.

Who is this garment best suited for?

This garment is best suited for Everyday wear, layering, travel, home comfort and transitional weather.. Possum merino gives warmth at a low weight, which makes it practical for everyday wear rather than reserved for the coldest days.

Knitted in New Zealand (Aotearoa). The possum fur and merino wool are both New Zealand-sourced; the mulberry silk in the blend is imported.

Who makes this garment?

This garment is made by Brushtail by Koru, made at the same family-run Warkworth workroom as Koru. Brushtail blends 20% possum fur, 75% merino wool, and 5% mulberry silk for a lighter, more breathable knit, worked with a two-tone plating that adds depth of colour.

How does possum merino compare to cashmere?

Possum merino is warmer than cashmere for its weight and holds up better against pilling. Possum fur is hollow, so it traps air inside the fibre and insulates without adding bulk, where cashmere is a solid fibre that works through loft alone. The smoother surface of possum fibre also creates less of the friction that causes cashmere to pill.

Brushtail by Koru

Jacquard Possum Merino Wrap

$249

Patchwork squares of herringbone, diamond, and chevron patterns run across a generous wrap — each square a different geometric weave, all in two-tone colourways.

Knitted in New Zealand from 75% fine merino wool and 20% possum fur, with 5% mulberry silk for a smooth handle — the possum fur holds the warmth while the merino keeps it light and soft. The higher merino content makes it lighter and finer than the standard possum merino mix, so it folds down small and travels well.

Use it as a blanket on the plane, then wear it as a scarf or shawl at your destination — loop it, drape it over the shoulders, or wrap it like a poncho. Measuring 56cm (22") wide and 200cm (79") long.

Also available as the Jacquard Possum Merino Throw for your home.

Kaitiakitanga: protecting native Aotearoa, one garment at a time. Our conservation impact → (opens in a new tab)

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Hand wash in cold water. Never rub, twist, or wring — gentle squeezing only. Lay flat to dry in shade, away from direct heat. Store folded in a cool, dry place.

New possum merino may shed lightly during the first few wears. This is completely normal and stops quickly. A gentle hand wash helps release any loose surface fibres.

Garment Care guide → (opens in a new tab)

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