Spring is here & summer is around the corner, so that means one thing for knitting and crochet enthusiasts – it's time to break out the lightweight yarns to stay cool while crafting. Whether you're working on a project for yourself or for a loved one, the last thing you want is to feel hot and sweaty while you stitch. But fear not, we've got you covered with our top picks for breathable yarns. From cotton to silk, we'll explore the best options to keep you comfortable and focused on your crafting. So, grab your needles, and let's get started!
Cotton Yarns
When it comes to breathable yarns, cotton is a classic choice. This versatile fiber is soft, durable, and absorbent, making it ideal for lightweight summer projects. Cotton yarns come in a variety of weights and textures, from thin and smooth to chunky and nubby. Plus, cotton is a natural, renewable resource, so you can feel good about your eco-friendly crafting choices.
But not all cotton yarns are created equal. Look for yarns that are labeled as "mercerized," which means they have been treated with a chemical process to make them stronger and more lustrous. Mercerized cotton yarns also tend to hold their shape better than non-mercerized yarns, which can stretch out over time. You do not want your spring top to feel like a dish cloth lol.
Bamboo Yarns
Now, let's talk about bamboo yarns, another great option for staying cool while crafting. Bamboo yarns are made from the pulp of bamboo grass and are known for their softness and breathability. With its moisture-wicking properties, bamboo yarns are perfect for hot and humid climates.
Moreover, unlike cotton, bamboo grows faster and requires fewer resources, making it an eco-friendly choice for environmentally conscious crafters. Additionally, bamboo yarns have a natural sheen and a silky texture that adds a luxurious touch to any project. There are even some sock yarns now available with bamboo in them to keep those toes cool!
Linen Yarns
Linen yarns, made from the fibers of the flax plant, are another great option for breathability. Like bamboo, linen is highly absorbent and moisture-wicking, making it ideal for warm weather garments. Linen yarns also have a natural luster and drape beautifully.
Because linen is a stiffer fiber than bamboo or cotton, it can take a bit of breaking in to become softer and more comfortable to wear. However, once it softens up, it will retain its shape and last a long time.
If you're looking to experiment with linen yarns, try using them for a light and airy summer shawl or a sleeveless top. Linen can also be blended with other fibers, like silk or cotton, to create a softer and more versatile yarn. Personally I find straight linen on it's own a bit thread like.
Silk Yarns
If you're looking for luxurious, soft, and shiny yarns, you can't go wrong with silk. With its natural sheen and draping quality, silk yarns are perfect for creating elegant and glamorous pieces. Although silk is delicate, it's surprisingly resilient and strong, making it a favorite among knitters and crocheters.
Silk yarns come in various forms, including spun silk, which is made from broken cocoons, and reeled silk, which is made from the continuous filament of the cocoon. Both types of silk yarns are smooth, lustrous, and lightweight, making them ideal for lace patterns, shawls, and scarves.
Silk can also be blended with other fibers, such as wool, cotton, or bamboo, to create unique and versatile yarns. Silk-wool blends, for instance, offer the warmth and elasticity of wool with the shine and drape of silk. Silk-cotton blends, on the other hand, provide the softness and breathability of cotton with the luxury and sheen of silk.
To care for silk yarns, hand-wash them in cool water with a mild detergent and lay them flat to dry. Avoid twisting or wringing the yarn and never iron or bleach it.
Seacell
You are probably thinking what on earth is seacell, I know I was the first time I saw it! Seacell is a newer fiber made from cellulose & seaweed, yes seaweed! This is another environmentally friendly option. It's durability, moisture wicking & breathable properties it again is a great choice for warmer weather crafting.
In conclusion, knitting or crocheting is a great way to pass the time during the summer months, but the heat can make it unbearable at times. That's where breathable yarns come in. Happy crafting!
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