Benefits of Undyed Yarn
If you are new to purchasing yarn, you might consider the differences between man-made versus natural undyed yarn. At Meridian Mill House, we are passionate advocates for the beauty, versatility, and environmental benefits of undyed natural fiber yarn. Natural fibers such as wool, cotton, and flax are sourced from animals and plants. These yarns boast many benefits, such as being durable, odor-resistant, and biodegradable. When artists have access to natural undyed yarns, they can enjoy the creativity and flexibility of a blank canvas. From fine-tuning the perfect shade of color for a project to experimenting with ombre dip dyeing – choosing undyed yarn yields wonderful, unique results every time!
On the other hand, man-made or synthetic yarn is made from petrochemicals that do not break down like natural yarns. As consumers become more and more aware of their environmental impact, fewer are interested in garments made from these synthetic yarns. Additionally, artists are confined by synthetic yarns when they lose the opportunity to dye it themselves.
Choosing the Right Yarn
As you are deciding which undyed yarn to use for your upcoming project, there are a few things to keep in mind before making a final decision. From fiber content and yarn weight to texture – artists must balance the pros and cons of each. Join us below as we dive into balancing each consideration and why they’re so important for your end user.
Fiber Content
Understanding the fiber content of different natural fiber types helps you choose the right one for your projects. For example, wool is known for its warmth, elasticity, and moisture-wicking properties. Undyed wool yarn would be an excellent choice for a jacket, hat, or sweater. On the other hand, cotton is lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for warm-weather projects. It’s absorbent and has a smooth texture, making it a great option for a shirt or a shawl.
Yarn Weight
Choosing the right yarn weight is essential for achieving your project’s desired look and functionality. Natural fibers like wool, alpaca, cotton, and silk come in various weights, each offering distinct textures and properties. From the delicate feel of fingering weight to the cozy bulk of super bulky yarn, understanding these options helps you select the best yarn for your project, whether it’s a lightweight shawl or a warm winter sweater.
Texture
Have you ever felt the disappointment of trying on a garment only to be turned off by the rough or itchy texture? This feeling can be avoided by intentionally choosing the best natural fiber for your project ahead of time. For example, while wool can range from soft to coarse and textured, silk and cotton are known for being smooth and even crisp.
Choosing a fiber is a balancing act. While you might prefer the texture of one yarn, you could find that the durability of that fiber won’t work for your project. Make sure you think about what is most important to your end user – whether that is warmth, texture, or breathability – before making your final choice.
Clothing to Knit with Undyed Yarn
Creatives can use undyed yarn to create a variety of durable yet beautiful products. As shared above, one must consider a few factors when choosing natural fiber types for a project. Below the team at Merdian Mill House team shares about different garments you might complete with natural undyed yarn and some important considerations before you begin.
Sweaters
Many artists look forward to completing their first sweater. They are a quintessential project for knitters or weavers and the final product is worn with pride! As you begin your project, consider what season it will be when you want to wear your sweater. If you will finish in the summer or springtime, blends with cotton or linen can offer breathability. If you’re looking for a fiber to provide warmth and comfort, undyed wool yarn might be your best option.
Scarves and Shawls
When designing a scarf or shawl, think about how your yarn will fall and flow. Yarn with a good drape, like silk or certain wools, creates a scarf that drapes elegantly, while yarns with more body will result in a scarf with more structure. You can also consider warmth and breathability when choosing an undyed natural yarn, as you may depend more on a scarf for insulation than a shawl.
Baby Clothes
When knitting or weaving baby clothes, you will want to choose a fiber that is soft against a baby’s sensitive skin, such as cotton, bamboo, or superwash wool. Additionally, babies are not known for keeping all of their garments clean and tidy – so make sure your finished product is machine washable! Finally, ensure you are using undyed natural yarn to prevent potential allergic reactions.
Shop Undyed Yarn From Meridian Mill House
Get started on your next project today with natural undyed yarn from the Meridian Mill House Yarn Shop! Register for an account to begin shopping at our shop that specializes in high-quality, readily available, un-dyed yarns. We look forward to hearing from you!
