Yarn Fibres Explained – Natural, Animal & Synthetic Fibres

Choosing yarn isn’t just about colour and thickness. It’s about feeling.

Do you want the garment to embrace, cool, shimmer or hold its structure? Do you want something soft as a whisper, or something with a more rustic character?

The material determines how your garment lives over time. How it drapes. How it breathes. How it ages. And perhaps most importantly, how it feels when you wear it.

Here, we guide you through the fibres so you can choose with both heart and intention.

This text is part of our Yarn School series, designed to help you understand yarn with confidence.

Animal Fibres

Merino Wool

Soft, supple and temperature-regulating – one of the most versatile fibres available. Merino works year-round and is especially appreciated for garments worn close to the skin.

Available with us in:

Peruvian Highland Wool

A more rustic wool with natural bounce and clear structure. It provides body and a classic look that holds its shape over time.

Available with us in:

Alpaca

A silky-soft and very warm fibre with a natural lustre. It is less elastic than wool, which gives a softer and more fluid drape. Alpaca fibre contains no lanolin, making it perfect for those who are sensitive to lanolin.

Available with us in:

Mohair

Mohair comes from the Angora goat. The fibre is strong, lightweight and naturally lustrous.

It creates an airy halo around the stitches, adding both texture and shine. Mohair is often used as a companion strand to bring life and depth to your knitting.

Available with us in:

Angora

Angora comes from the Angora rabbit and is one of the softest natural fibres available.

It is lightweight, very warm and creates a soft, fluffy surface with a subtle lustre. Angora is often used in blends to add extra softness and a dreamy expression.

In the past, angora production has been associated with animal cruelty. Today, responsible producers work with significantly improved animal welfare and more ethical methods. It is always important to choose suppliers who take responsibility for the animals’ well-being.

Available with us in:

Cashmere

An exclusive fibre with exceptional softness relative to its weight. It provides lightweight warmth and a subtle sense of luxury – perfect for garments worn close to the skin.

Available with us in:

Non-Animal Natural Fibres

These fibres are often cooler and less elastic, making them perfect for warmer climates and summer garments.

Cotton

Soft, durable and stable. Cool against the skin and easy to wear.

Available with us in:

Linen

Crisp, cool and naturally textured. Linen becomes softer and more beautiful over time.

Available with us in:

Silk

Smooth, glossy and cool. Silk creates a beautiful drape and an exclusive feel.

Available with us in:

Viscose

A regenerated fibre made from cellulose. It is similar to cotton in absorbency but has a more fluid drape and an elegant lustre. Viscose adds movement and soft elegance.

Available with us in:

Synthetic Fibres

Often used in blends to add strength, durability and shape retention.

Nylon / Polyamide

Adds durability, especially in sock yarns.

Available with us in:

Polyester

Shape-retaining and resilient.

Available with us in:

Overview – Animal Fibres

Fibre Warmth Elasticity Lustre Feel
Merino High High Low Soft & supple
Highland wool Very high High Low Rustic & stable
Alpaca Very high Low Medium (soft sheen) Silky & warm
Mohair High Medium High Airy & glossy
Angora Very high Low Low–medium Fluffy & lightweight
Cashmere Very high Medium Low (subtle) Luxurious & soft

Ready to choose your fibre? Browse all our yarns, or learn more about materials, yarn weights and care in our Yarn School.

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