Five types of sustainable yarn
Did you know that knitting can be a sustainable activity if you choose a recycled yarn or a more sustainable new yarn? Let’s take a look at five ideas to guide you in your quest for eco-friendly crafting.
1. Bamboo
This type of yarn is made from bamboo fibre, which is naturally biodegradable and renewable. It is starting to be found in knitting kit options from companies such as https://www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/knitting-kits thanks to its low-energy requirements to make and manufacture and low water needs. Bamboo is very cool to wear and naturally antibacterial, so it is a great choice for clothing.
2. Organic cotton
When you choose organic cotton yarn, you are choosing a material that has been grown without the use of GM seeds, pesticides, or chemical fertilisers. For this reason, it can be more expensive and cannot always be found in knitting kit products; however, the environmental impact is far lower when it is. Thanks to the lack of soil erosion with the methods used with organic cotton farming, it also supports the broader ecosystem.
3. Recycled yarn
This type of mixed yarn is made using fabrics claimed from post-industrial waste. It can use all kinds of materials, including wool, cotton, and polyester. The yarn is dyed, often using plant-based, natural dyes that help to lighten the chemical load. Recycled yarn is often inexpensive and is great for a range of projects.
4. Hemp
This is another eco-friendly yarn made from the fibres of plants. Hemp is incredibly sustainable and doesn’t require much water to grow. It also grows happily without herbicides or pesticides and can withstand pests without the need for chemicals. When you wear hemp, it is breathable, durable, and naturally antimicrobial.
5. Linen
Made from flax plant fibres, linen is sustainable because it doesn’t require much water. The resulting yarn is highly durable, making it a strong choice for home decor and clothes. Its lustre is very beautiful to look at, and the lightweight nature of the yarn makes it great for summer wear.
Why not try one of these sustainable yarns for your next project?
