Random, drive-by commenter: I understand it has to do with the smoothness of the fibers. I know that if one hand-washes itchy wool items, then does a first rinse with a splat of hair conditioner before the final rinse, as if the conditioner were fabric softener, most items lose their itchiness.

Maybe the SFOHA would be interested in the convention brochures?

Oh, squee! I am so glad that Ms. Bentley is doing the bookstore thing again!