Why Choose Plant Fibers?

Plant-based yarns offer sustainable alternatives to animal and synthetic fibers. Bamboo, linen, hemp, and other plant fibers are renewable, biodegradable, and often require fewer resources to produce. They're also naturally breathable and perfect for warm-weather projects.

Advantages

  • Eco-friendly and sustainable
  • Naturally breathable and cooling
  • Silky, smooth feel
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Often machine washable
  • Gets softer with washing

Considerations

  • Less elastic than wool
  • Can be heavy when wet
  • May stretch over time
  • Slippery on needles
  • Less warm than wool

Types of Plant Fiber Yarn

Bamboo

Silky smooth with beautiful drape and subtle sheen. Bamboo grows quickly without pesticides. Note that most bamboo yarn is bamboo viscose—chemically processed bamboo pulp. Great for sensitive skin.

Linen

Made from flax fibers, linen is incredibly strong and becomes softer with each wash. Crisp and cool, perfect for summer garments. Can be stiff at first but relaxes beautifully.

Hemp

One of the most sustainable fibers. Strong, durable, and UV resistant. Similar to linen in its crisp feel. Excellent for bags, home goods, and sturdy garments.

Plant Fiber Blends

Bamboo-cotton, linen-silk, and other blends combine properties of different fibers. Often easier to work with than pure plant fibers. Look for blends that match your project needs.

Our Top Plant Fiber Yarn Picks

We've selected the best bamboo and plant fiber yarns for different projects and budgets.

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Bamboo Yarns

Lion Brand

Truboo

DK 100% Bamboo

Pure bamboo with silky feel and beautiful drape. Excellent for summer garments and baby items. Machine washable.

Universal

Bamboo Pop

DK Cotton/Bamboo Blend

50% cotton, 50% bamboo blend. Vibrant colors and great stitch definition. Perfect for warm-weather accessories.

Cascade

Ultra Pima Fine

Sport 100% Pima Cotton

While not bamboo, pima cotton offers similar softness and eco-friendly qualities. Beautiful for summer projects.

Linen & Hemp Yarns

Quince & Co

Sparrow

Fingering 100% Linen

Pure organic linen with beautiful rustic texture. Softens dramatically with washing. Perfect for heirloom summer garments.

Rowan

Creative Linen

DK Cotton/Linen Blend

50% cotton, 50% linen. Crisp texture that softens with wear. Great drape for summer dresses and tanks.

Hemp for Knitting

Allhemp6

DK 100% Hemp

Pure hemp yarn, incredibly sustainable and strong. Perfect for market bags, home goods, and durable items.

Premium Plant Fiber Blends

Berroco

Remix Light

DK Nylon/Cotton/Acrylic/Silk/Linen

Unique recycled blend including linen and cotton. Eco-conscious with interesting texture. Machine washable.

Shibui

Reed

Fingering Silk/Linen Blend

40% silk, 60% linen. Beautiful crisp texture with silk sheen. Perfect for elegant summer shawls and tops.

Fibra Natura

Good Earth

DK Cotton/Wool Blend

Organic cotton and organic wool blend. GOTS certified. Perfect for eco-conscious knitters wanting natural fiber benefits.

Working with Plant Fibers

Knitting Tips

Plant fibers lack elasticity—consider wooden or bamboo needles for grip. Work at a slightly tighter gauge than you might with wool. These yarns relax and grow, so swatch and wash before committing.

Care Instructions

Most bamboo and plant fiber yarns are machine washable on gentle. Linen and hemp get softer with each wash. Lay flat to dry to prevent stretching. Check individual yarn labels for specific care.

Best Projects for Plant Fibers

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Summer Tops

Cool and breathable

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Market Bags

Strong and durable

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Baby Items

Gentle on skin

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Home Goods

Washcloths, towels