Melton ... or similar?

[Billy-o]

I'd like a lightweight blanket and am thinking of buying a couple of yards of 18oz melton wool.

Does anyone know if 18oz is about right for the drape? I know the stuff can be a bit like hardboard if it's too heavy a weight, but I have no clue what would actually be appropriate.

Maybe merino jersey or a wool twill or something would be another option. But maybe the melton will be better for a little wool and waxed cotton sit mat.

Thanks for any tips

 

[Sooty22]

I make smocks out of melton wool, and I can tell you that I have bought fabric that was advertised as 'melton' but the feel wasn't, so be cautious and ask for a sample first.
18oz could be ca. 600gsm, or 400gsm, depending on if it is oz per unit length of the fabric roll, or per unit area. 600gsm would be ok for a blanket, but 400 would be a bit on the light side.
So, ask for a sample, and see how it compares to other blankets you have, in feel and weight. Also keep in mind that generally wool fabric softens slightly after a little use.
If you want something softer and not so scratchy, look for a merino loden -and always order a sample first!
Btw, I got a couple of cracking blankets year back, second hand merino on ebay. I was chuffed with them and they still get used all the time. So, maybe your best starting point should be ebay/similar.