Rohmaterial Schwarznase für Ruckstuhl Teppiche – im Herbst
natural fibre

Virgin wool from Wallis Blacknose sheep

100% Swiss.
The wool of the Valais Blacknose sheep has a robust, lively texture and an unmistakable Swiss origin. From the sheep in Upper Valais to the finished rug, the entire value chain remains in Switzerland.
Weltkarte für die internationale Darstellung von Ruckstuhl
origin Upper Valais, Switzerland

The Valais Blacknose sheep is one of the most well-known and distinctive sheep breeds in Switzerland. Its origins date back several centuries and are closely linked to the alpine cultural landscape of Upper Valais. Shaped by steep slopes, long winters, and large temperature variations, a breed of exceptional hardiness developed, which remains an integral part of regional agriculture to this day. The wool of the Blacknose sheep is produced under conditions that demand resilience.

Unlike very fine wool qualities, it has a heartier, more lively texture and conveys a special material honesty. This original tactile quality gives it character: warm, calm, and with a depth that perfectly harmonizes with natural materials like wood, stone, or mineral surfaces.

In interiors, Schwarznasenwolle creates a unique atmosphere. Its slightly archaic surface feels both soft and robust, creating coziness and noticeably improving room acoustics. When laid wall-to-wall, it forms a warm, calming foundation; used as a fitted rug, it can acoustically balance hard floors and subtly zone different areas.

For Ruckstuhl, Schwarznasenwolle stands for regional responsibility and lived cooperation. The raw wool comes directly from sheep farmer cooperatives in Upper Valais and is fully processed in Switzerland. It is washed and spun at the Huttwil wool spinning mill before the rugs are made in Langenthal. From the sheep to the finished product, a textile value chain is created that is 100% anchored in Switzerland.

In a time of globalized raw materials, Schwarznasenwolle becomes a new expression of luxury: local, authentic, and remarkably durable.
  • Swiss raw material from Upper Valais
  • Entirely Swiss value chain
  • Distinctive, sturdy, and robust texture
  • Regulates room climate and temperature
  • Improves acoustics and comfort
Vacuum regularly and gently remove loose fibers during the initial period of use. Blot stains instead of rubbing them. For deep cleaning, follow the wool care instructions.
Features in detail
  • Blacknose wool is a natural and renewable raw material of Swiss origin.
  • Blacknose wool comes from a fully Swiss value chain — from the sheep to the finished carpet.
  • Blacknose wool balances the indoor climate and can absorb and release moisture.
  • Blacknose wool improves room acoustics and noticeably reduces echo on hard surfaces.
  • Blacknose wool regulates temperature and creates a warm, cozy atmosphere.
  • Blacknose wool has a robust and durable fiber structure, making it suitable for long-lasting applications.
  • Blacknose wool is electrostatically neutral and comfortable for daily use.
  • Blacknose wool develops a natural patina over time and gains character.
Figures & Facts
  • The Valais Blacknose sheep originally come from Upper Valais and are among the best-known Swiss sheep breeds.
  • The animals live partly at altitudes of over 2,000 m above sea level and are adapted to extreme climatic conditions.
  • A Blacknose sheep produces about 2–4 kg of raw wool annually.
  • The Ruckstuhl supply chain is 100% in Switzerland: Upper Valais → Huttwil → Langenthal.
  • The raw wool is sourced directly from sheep farmer cooperatives in Upper Valais.
  • The wool is washed and spun at the Huttwil wool spinning mill in the canton of Bern.
  • Blacknose wool has a coarser and more structured fiber than classic fine wool, giving it a particularly distinctive character.
  • Ruckstuhl is one of the first manufacturers to use Swiss wool as carpet fiber in a fully regional supply chain.
What distinguishes Valais Blacknose wool from fine virgin wool?

Valais Blacknose wool has a more distinctive, livelier fiber structure than very fine wool qualities. This gives it a more natural, material-focused character while remaining durable, acoustically effective, and pleasant in an interior.

Where is a rug made from Valais Blacknose wool produced?

The raw wool comes from sheep farmers’ cooperatives in Upper Valais. It is washed and spun at the Huttwil wool mill and then processed into a rug at the Ruckstuhl manufactory in Langenthal. This means that the entire value chain remains in Switzerland.

Are there made-to-measure rugs made from Valais Blacknose wool?

Yes. The available sizes, shapes, colorways, and edgings depend on the respective Schwarznase collection and are shown in the product configurator.

What does mulesing-free virgin wool mean?

Mulesing-free virgin wool comes from supply chains that forgo the procedure known as mulesing. Ruckstuhl uses carefully selected mulesing-free virgin wool and also assesses fiber length, elasticity, purity, and suitability for the respective rug.

What effect does virgin wool have on room acoustics and the indoor climate?

The natural crimp of the wool fiber traps air and helps regulate temperature. Virgin wool can absorb moisture from the indoor air and release it again without immediately feeling damp. As a textile surface, it also reduces impact sound and reverberation—especially in rooms with stone, glass, concrete, or wood.

rugs made of Virgin wool from Wallis Blacknose sheep