Yarn By Fiber

Think about how you want your finished project to feel and function! Wool is best for warmth and stretch—great for winter sweaters, hats, and socks. Cotton is crisp and cool, making it perfect for summer garments, dishcloths, or baby items. Acrylic yarn is a go-to for affordability and easy care—choose it for gifts, kid projects, and machine-washable blankets. Alpaca is super soft and great for drapey, cozy accessories like scarves and shawls. For something silky and breathable, go with bamboo or Tencel, which are lovely for baby items and wraps. Silk adds luxury and shine, ideal for special-occasion pieces or delicate lacework. Consider the attributes that matter most for your project: warmth, breathability, softness, or ease of care.

Wool is warm, springy, and naturally resists odours—perfect for cold-weather wear. Cotton is breathable and absorbent, great for hot climates and kitchen projects. Acrylic yarn is synthetic, so it’s hypoallergenic, budget-friendly, and super versatile—you can toss it in the wash without worry. Each fiber feels and behaves a little differently: wool is cozy and stretchy, cotton is crisp and firm, and acrylic is soft with lots of color options. Your choice depends on the look, feel, and care level you want for your project!

Yes! If you have wool allergies or sensitivity, try acrylic, bamboo, or Tencel yarns, which are hypoallergenic and gentle on skin. Bamboo and Tencel are especially nice for baby knits and summery accessories—they’re silky, cooling, and naturally antibacterial. Acrylic is another great option, especially for blankets and toys, since it won’t irritate sensitive skin and is easy to care for.

Care depends on the fiber! Wool, alpaca, and silk yarns typically do best with hand washing and laying flat to dry—this keeps them soft, shaped, and looking their best. Cotton can usually be machine washed, but check the label for details. Acrylic yarn is the easiest: you can machine wash and dry it, making it perfect for everyday items. Bamboo and Tencel should be washed gently, ideally by hand or on a delicate cycle, and dried flat to maintain their silky texture. When in doubt, follow the specific care instructions on your yarn label.

For ultimate softness, alpaca and silk yarns are the go-tos! Alpaca is fluffy, lightweight, and wonderfully warm—amazing for scarves, shawls, and cozy wraps. Silk is smooth, shiny, and adds a fluid drape for elegant accessories and special accents. Bamboo and Tencel are also very soft, cool, and drapey—perfect for baby clothes and delicate summer pieces. If you want a project that feels luxurious next to the skin, try these premium fibers!