This recycled cotton yarn is made ethically and perfect for knitting, crochet, weaving and macrame projects. Perfect for summer makes, it’s super-soft with wonderful drape. In 16 colour choices.
Despite the image of kittens playing with balls of wool, it’s a choking/tangling hazard, so keep it secured away, for the safety of feline friends.
There are many plant-based knitting yarns:
- Cotton: Soft and breathable, cotton is a popular choice for summer garments. It absorbs moisture and is gentle on the skin.
- Linen: Derived from the flax plant, linen has a lovely texture that gets softer with each wash. It’s perfect for warm-weather items due to its excellent breathability.
- Hemp: This fibrous material is incredibly strong and durable. It has a rustic appeal, making it ideal for boho-style knitting projects.
- Bamboo: Not only sustainable but also incredibly soft, bamboo yarn has a silky feel and natural lustre. It’s great for delicate items like baby clothes.
Benefits of Using Plant-Based Yarn
Choosing plant-based yarn comes with numerous advantages. First and foremost, the environmental impact is significantly lower than synthetic options. Plant-based fibres are biodegradable, meaning they won’t linger in landfill sites for years. On top of that, they’re often produced with fewer chemicals, promoting healthier ecosystems.
Comfort is another key benefit. Plant-based yarns are typically breathable, making them great for clothing you wear closest to your skin. They allow for better airflow, which can prevent overheating during warmer months.
How to Choose Sustainable Plant-Based Yarn
Take time to read yarn labels. Look for plant-based materials and check for certifications that indicate sustainability. Labels from organisations like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) signify that the yarn was made with mindful practices.
Each plant-based yarn has unique qualities. For instance, cotton is versatile but can stretch over time, while linen offers a sturdy, timeless structure. Hemp, on the other hand, becomes softer with use, adding character to your projects. Bamboo stands out for its luxurious feel but may require special care when washing. Know your preferences and project needs to make an informed decision.
Knitting Techniques with Plant-Based Yarns
Different textures can behave surprisingly when knit. Cotton may feel slippery on needles, so consider bamboo or wooden needles for better grip. Linen has a tendency to stiffen, making it important to knit loosely. Experiment with your tension to achieve the best possible outcome.
Caring for your knitted items will extend their lifespan. Most plant-based yarns are machine washable on a gentle cycle, but it’s smart to hand wash items made from delicate fibres like bamboo. Always check labels for specific care instructions to keep your garments looking their best.
This organic cotton yarn carries the GOTS certificate, with safety testings available after purchase (something to do with EU law not testing at source). Good for knitting and crochet.
Why Choose Vegan Yarns Over Wool?
Although sheep do need shearing to avoid over-heating, falling over (right one up if you see it upside down or it will die) and to see predators, the conventional wool industry has many issues.
Some sheep are sheared too early (leading to hypothermia) and others suffer ‘mulesling’ (having chunks of skin sliced away to prevent flystrike, without painkillers). And many sheep are killed, when they get older and their wool production slows down).
If you wear wool, choose companies that don’t kill the sheep, simply shearing the wool: like vegetarian wool or sheepskins.
Use with Bamboo Knitting Needles
Bamboo knitting needles are warm to touch (over metal) and good for arthritic hands as they are easier to hold, and offer better control of stitches.
