Fiber Content and Texture of Yarn

There are thousands of yarns to choose from when you’re beginning a knitting project. Corrina Ferguson looks at different projects and gives suggestions on how to determine the best fiber content and texture of yarn for your next project.

Corrina’s first suggestion is to examine the yarn label to check the washing instructions for the yarn. While hand-washing your knits is ideal, not everyone wants to wash their knitting that way. Particularly if you are making a baby gift, like a knitted baby blanket or hat, you’ll want to find a yarn that’s durable and machine washable and dryable.

When it comes to projects that involve techniques like lace or slipped stitches, Corrina suggests using a smooth, plied yarn. This type of yarn will provide great stitch definition for the project, and the content of the yarn allows the stitch patterns to be easily seen. If you’re unsure if the yarn you have in mind for a project will work, Corrina suggests making a small swatch so that you can be sure you’re satisfied with your yarn choice.

Another consideration is how the item will be worn. Accessories like cowls and shawls will be worn next to the skin. Many people have fiber allergies or sensitivities, and it’s important to make sure that the item is comfortable to wear. Other items, like socks, need to be extremely durable. Corrina suggests looking for a strong wool or a wool that has some nylon content with it so it can withstand being on a foot, where the stitches are getting a lot of wear.