Leaves to get the wool (7)

I believe the answer is:

strands

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'leaves' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for strands that I've seen before include "Maroons" , "Threads, fibres" , "Threads or beaches" , "Filaments" , "Leaves helpless on the sand" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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