A Yarn About Yarns
One of the more common crafting activities that people have taken up during the pandemic is knitting. Knitting uses yarn; yarn is defined as different fibers spun together like strands to create a bundle. There are a variety of yarn that is used for a variety of projects, and they generally fall into three origin categories: Animal, Plant, and Synthetic.
Animal-based yarn
Wool Yarn (Animal Origin)
Made from the fleece of sheep, wool yarn is the most popular yarn choice for knitters. Though it can be itchy for some people, it is popular for retaining its shape and being long-lasting; it is most often used for winter wear.
Cashmere Yarn (Animal Origin)
This very soft wool is extracted from cashmere coats; the extraction process is quite tedious, and thus the yarn is very expensive. Whereas sheep wool is shorn, cashmere wool is combed and collected; this requires a lot of time and manual work.
Merino Wool (Animal Origin)
Taken from a special breed of sheep, this yarn is known for its softness and hypoallergenic properties. The main disadvantage with this yarn is that the threads can collect and create a fuzz effect known as “piling.”
Silk Yarn (Animal Origin)
Extracted from silkworms in a tedious process, this is another expensive yarn. It can be difficult to knit around because it is slippery; however, it is also strong. It can be used for projects ranging from traditional knitting to projects like felting or jewelry-making.
Plant-based yarn
Cotton Yarn (Plant Origin)
Extracted from cotton plants, cotton yarn is ideal for knitting summer wear due to its ability to keep the body cool and its breathability. It is also good for knitting household items such as washcloths, potholders, or dishcloths.
Hemp Yarn (Plant Origin)
This natural, plant-based yarn is relatively new; it is quite soft and sturdy. It is used to make things like coats, sweaters, and long socks.
Bamboo Yarn (Plant Origin)
Made from the bamboo plant, this yarn is soft and has a good flow; its antibacterial properties and airy and breathable nature make it a good choice for summer wear.
Synthetic yarn
Rayon Yarn (Semi-Synthetic Yarn)
Created from a manufactured fiber extracted from wood pulp, rayon yarn is breathable and doesn’t lose shape; it is ideal for summer tanks, tops, and tees.
Novelty Yarn (Synthetic Yarn)
Made in a variety of colors and textures, novelty yarns can make projects more appealing and interesting. Novelty yarns come in different types: smooth and velvety chenille, loopy boucle, and extra fluffy faux fur, to name a few.
Polyester Yarn (Synthetic Yarn)
Made from a blend of plant extract and synthetic chemicals, polyester yarn is used for making not only garments but also things such as furnitures and mousepads.
