When I first saw the Astoria blanket, I wanted it. Then I saw the first picture with it used as a shawl, and I thought, oh but that's *thin*! But, after sleeping in a Rowena for a couple months, and seeing more pictures of the Astoria, it somehow found its way into my shopping basket after all. And I don't regret it! The blanket is much thinner than you expect a woolen blanket to be. It feels like a thick T-shirt fabric ....which it is, after all, but warm nevertheless, heavier than cotton or polyester fleece would be, and so soft! I keep catching myself worrying bits of it between my fingers, or stroking or petting it like a dog. You can wrap it around yourself like a scarf, shawl, cloak or even skirt or just use it for cuddling up on the sofa. I hope to use it in summer to sleep under, when it's too warm for my down comforter. And yes, the price is hefty, but this piece will last you ages, it's not prone to pilling, doesnt attract dog hair and can be washed by hand or machine. Win-win. Go get it ;)) I'll sign up for a second as soon as they are released in Redwood (hint hint)