Why Choose Wool?

Wool has been the fiber of choice for knitters for centuries, and for good reason. Its natural elasticity makes knitting a pleasure, and the finished fabric has memory that helps garments keep their shape. Wool is naturally temperature-regulating, warm when it's cold and breathable when it's warm.

Advantages

  • Excellent elasticity and stitch definition
  • Naturally warm and temperature-regulating
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Available at every price point
  • Blocks beautifully
  • Sustainable and renewable

Considerations

  • Can felt if washed improperly
  • Some people have wool sensitivities
  • Non-superwash requires hand washing
  • Quality varies significantly by grade
  • Moths can damage stored items

Types of Wool Yarn

Merino Wool

The gold standard for softness. Merino sheep produce fine fibers that feel luxurious against skin. Look for merino for garments worn close to the body like sweaters and scarves.

Superwash Wool

Treated to prevent felting, superwash wool can be machine washed. Perfect for baby items, gifts, and anything that needs easy care. Slightly less elastic than regular wool.

Icelandic/Nordic Wool

Rustic and hard-wearing, these wools are excellent for outerwear, colorwork, and traditional patterns. Often less processed for an authentic look and feel.

Wool Blends

Wool blended with nylon (for durability), silk (for sheen), or acrylic (for affordability) combines the best properties of multiple fibers.

Our Top Wool Yarn Picks

We've selected wool yarns across price points and purposes, from everyday basics to special project splurges.

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Budget-Friendly Wool

Lion Brand

Wool-Ease

Worsted Wool/Acrylic Blend

An 80% acrylic, 20% wool blend that's machine washable. Great for beginners and large projects. Softens beautifully with washing.

Patons

Classic Wool

Worsted 100% Wool

Pure wool at an accessible price. Excellent for felting projects and traditional patterns. Hand wash for best results.

Caron

Simply Soft

Worsted Acrylic

While not wool, this premium acrylic offers similar warmth with complete machine washability. Budget-friendly for large blankets.

Mid-Range Merino

Malabrigo

Rios

Worsted 100% Superwash Merino

Gorgeous hand-dyed colors in soft superwash merino. A favorite for sweaters and accessories. Machine washable.

Cascade

220 Superwash

Worsted 100% Superwash Wool

A workhorse yarn with 220 yards per skein. Hundreds of colors available. Reliable gauge and excellent stitch definition.

Berroco

Ultra Wool

Worsted 100% Superwash Wool

Soft, bouncy superwash wool with excellent value. 219 yards per skein in a wide range of solids and heathers.

Premium & Luxury Wool

Malabrigo

Mechita

Fingering 100% Superwash Merino

Single-ply fingering weight in stunning hand-dyed colorways. Perfect for shawls and lightweight garments.

Brooklyn Tweed

Shelter

Worsted 100% US Wool

American wool with a rustic, heathered look. Blooms beautifully after blocking. Perfect for heirloom sweaters.

Rowan

Felted Tweed

DK Wool/Alpaca/Viscose

Iconic tweedy yarn with beautiful depth of color. The viscose adds subtle sheen. Timeless for colorwork and texture.

Wool Care Tips

Washing Non-Superwash Wool

Hand wash in cool water with wool wash or mild detergent. Avoid agitation and temperature changes, which cause felting. Gently squeeze out water—never wring. Lay flat to dry.

Storing Wool

Store clean wool items with cedar or lavender to deter moths. Keep in breathable containers (not plastic bags) in a cool, dry place. Check stored items periodically for damage.

Best Projects for Wool