If you’ve ever wondered what magic goes into making your favourite skein of yarn, you’re not alone! Yarn can be made from a variety of fibres—some soft and luxurious, others sturdy and durable. Whether you’re knitting a cosy jumper or crocheting a delicate lace shawl, the fibre you choose will shape your finished piece.
Let’s unravel the mystery of what yarn is made from, with some delightful examples you can find right here at Wrapped In Fibre!
Wool: The Classic Cosy Fibre
When you think of yarn, wool is probably the first thing that comes to mind. Wool is warm, elastic, and versatile—perfect for everything from winter wear to heirloom-quality projects.
- Merino Wool: Known for its incredible softness and fine fibres, merino wool is a favourite among knitters and crocheters. Malabrigo Rios and Malabrigo Sock are both made from 100% merino wool, offering buttery softness and gorgeous colourways for all your projects.
- British Breeds Wool: For a more traditional wool experience, Marie Wallin British Breeds yarn blends different British sheep breeds, giving you a rustic yet soft yarn that’s perfect for Fair Isle knitting and textured garments.
- Felted Tweed: If you love a tweedy, slightly rustic look with a soft feel, Rowan Felted Tweed is a wool blend with a touch of alpaca and viscose for added texture and drape.
Alpaca: The Luxurious Softie
Alpaca yarn is like knitting with a cloud! It’s softer and just as warm as wool, making it ideal for scarves, shawls, and cosy sweaters. Alpaca fibres are naturally hypoallergenic, meaning they’re a great choice for those who find traditional wool a little itchy.
Many wool blends, like Rowan Felted Tweed, incorporate alpaca for extra softness and drape—so you get the best of both worlds!
Cotton: The Cool, Breathable Choice
If you’re crafting for warmer climates, cotton yarn is a must-have. It’s strong, durable, and perfect for summer tops, dishcloths, and baby garments. Cotton doesn’t have the stretch of wool, but it makes up for it with breathability and a crisp stitch definition.
While Wrapped In Fibre focuses on premium wool yarns, we know cotton is a favourite among many crafters—so keep an eye out for special additions to our range!
Other Fabulous Fibres
Beyond the classics, yarn can also be made from silk, linen, bamboo, and even synthetic materials like acrylic and nylon. These fibres are often blended with wool to add durability, drape, or sheen.
For example, many sock yarns blend wool with nylon to create a stronger, longer-lasting fabric—like Malabrigo Sock, which is made from pure merino wool but tightly spun for extra durability.
Choosing the Right Fibre for Your Project
Not sure which fibre to pick? Here’s a quick guide:
- For warm and cosy knits: Merino wool, alpaca, or tweed blends like Rowan Felted Tweed.
- For durable projects like socks: Merino wool or wool blends with a tight spin, like Malabrigo Sock.
- For Fair Isle and colourwork: Traditional British wool blends like Marie Wallin British Breeds.
- For lightweight, breathable pieces: Cotton or linen blends.
Whatever your project, choosing the right fibre will ensure your finished piece is beautiful, functional, and long-lasting.
Wrap It Up!
Yarn isn’t just wool—it’s a world of different fibres, each with its own unique characteristics. Whether you love the softness of merino, the rustic charm of British breeds, or the classic tweed look, there’s a perfect yarn for every stitch.
At Wrapped In Fibre, we bring you premium fibres that elevate your craft—because every maker deserves the best.
Happy stitching!
You may be interested in…
Addi Circular Needles : 100cms
$12.99 – $18.99