Each fiber has unique properties that affect warmth, drape, durability, and care. Find the perfect fiber for your project.
Consider your project's purpose, the recipient (allergies?), care requirements, and budget. Natural fibers like wool and alpaca offer warmth and breathability, while synthetics like acrylic provide easy care and affordability. Blends combine the best of both worlds.
The classic choice for warmth and elasticity. Wool yarn springs back into shape, making it ideal for ribbing, cables, and garments that need structure. Available from budget to luxury grades.
Breathable and absorbent, perfect for warm-weather garments and kitchen items. Cotton creates crisp stitch definition but lacks elasticity. Great for dishcloths, summer tops, and baby items.
Budget-friendly and machine washable. Modern acrylics are incredibly soft and come in endless colors. Perfect for baby items, blankets, and gifts for people who prefer easy-care items.
Softer and warmer than sheep's wool, with a luxurious drape. Alpaca is hypoallergenic and comes in beautiful natural colors. Ideal for shawls, scarves, and cozy sweaters.
Adds luster, drape, and strength to yarn. Pure silk is luxurious but expensive; silk blends offer the sheen at accessible prices. Perfect for shawls and special occasion garments.
Eco-friendly options with a silky feel. Bamboo, linen, and hemp are sustainable choices that soften with washing. Great for warm-weather projects and those seeking natural alternatives.
| Fiber | Warmth | Softness | Durability | Care | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wool | Excellent | Varies by grade | High | Hand wash or superwash | $-$$$ |
| Cotton | Low (breathable) | Good | Very High | Machine wash | $-$$ |
| Acrylic | Good | Good to Excellent | High | Machine wash & dry | $ |
| Alpaca | Excellent | Excellent | Moderate | Hand wash, lay flat | $$-$$$ |
| Silk | Moderate | Excellent | Moderate | Hand wash, gentle | $$-$$$$ |
| Bamboo | Low (breathable) | Excellent | Good | Machine wash gentle | $$ |
Choose soft, washable fibers. Premium acrylic, superwash merino, cotton, and bamboo are excellent choices. Avoid mohair and angora (loose fibers can be dangerous for babies).
Wool and alpaca excel at warmth. Look for superwash options if easy care is important. Wool-acrylic blends offer warmth with added durability and washability.
Cotton, linen, and bamboo breathe well in warm weather. Avoid wool and acrylic for summer tops—they trap heat. Silk blends add drape and sheen to summer shawls.
Durability matters for socks, bags, and frequently washed items. Choose superwash wool with nylon, cotton, or acrylic. Add reinforcing thread to high-wear areas.