About Yarn
Discover the fascinating world of natural and synthetic fibers. Learn about their origins, properties, and perfect applications.
Fiber Types & Properties
Cashmere
Source: Kashmir goats
Key Characteristics
Care Instructions
Hand wash in cool water, lay flat to dry
Best Uses
Scarves, sweaters, baby items, luxury accessories
Merino Wool
Source: Merino sheep
Key Characteristics
Care Instructions
Machine wash gentle cycle, reshape while damp
Best Uses
Base layers, sweaters, socks, outdoor gear
Alpaca
Source: Alpaca fiber
Key Characteristics
Care Instructions
Hand wash or dry clean, air dry flat
Best Uses
Sweaters, blankets, outerwear, accessories
Cotton
Source: Cotton plant
Key Characteristics
Care Instructions
Machine washable, tumble dry low
Best Uses
Summer garments, dishcloths, baby items, home decor
Mohair
Source: Angora goats
Key Characteristics
Care Instructions
Gentle hand wash, minimal handling when wet
Best Uses
Sweaters, shawls, upholstery, textured garments
Silk
Source: Silkworms
Key Characteristics
Care Instructions
Hand wash or dry clean, iron while slightly damp
Best Uses
Evening wear, lingerie, scarves, luxury items
Yarn Weight Guide
Lace
Finest weight for delicate lace work
Super Fine
Sock weight, fine knitting
Fine
Sport weight, light garments
Light
DK weight, versatile projects
Medium
Worsted weight, most common
Bulky
Heavy weight, quick projects
Super Bulky
Very thick, fast knitting
Expert Tips
Choosing the Right Fiber
Consider the end use of your project. Natural fibers excel in breathability and comfort, while synthetic blends offer durability and easy care.
Reading Yarn Labels
Always check the fiber content, weight, yardage, and care instructions. Dye lots matter - buy enough from the same lot for your entire project.
Storing Your Yarn
Store yarn in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use breathable storage containers and cedar blocks to protect natural fibers from pests.
Substituting Yarns
When substituting, match the yarn weight and gauge first, then consider fiber content and care requirements for best results.
Testing for Colorfastness
Before starting, test a small piece by washing it separately. This prevents color bleeding and ensures your finished project maintains its beauty.
Joining New Skeins
Join new yarn at the beginning of a row when possible. Use the Russian join or spit splice technique for seamless connections in felting yarns.
Sustainable Yarn Choices
Eco-Friendly Options
- • Organic cotton: Grown without harmful pesticides
- • Recycled fibers: Made from post-consumer waste
- • Bamboo: Fast-growing, naturally antimicrobial
- • Hemp: Durable, requires minimal water to grow
- • Alpaca: Renewable, naturally hypoallergenic
Responsible Practices
- • Support brands with transparent supply chains
- • Choose quality over quantity for longer-lasting projects
- • Look for certifications like GOTS or OEKO-TEX
- • Consider local and small-scale producers
- • Repurpose and upcycle existing yarns when possible