Know the different types of wool to knit better

Choosing the right wool is essential for successful knitting or crochet projects. Behind each ball lies a different fiber, with its own unique properties: warmth, softness, strength, appearance, etc. What are the main types of wool available and how to use them properly? Here's an overview to help you gain a clearer picture and make the right choices for your projects.

Merino wool: softness and elasticity

Highly prized by knitters, merino wool comes from a sheep native to Spain. It is renowned for its fineness, softness, and great elasticity. Perfect for clothing worn next to the skin, it doesn't itch and is suitable for all types of projects: sweaters, baby clothes, hats, etc.

Another advantage: merino naturally regulates body temperature, making it an ideal fiber for winter and mid-season.

Alpaca wool: warmth and lightness

Made from the fleece of the alpaca , a South American camelid, this wool is renowned for its silky softness and exceptional warmth. It is warmer than sheep's wool, yet lighter. Its slightly satiny feel makes it elegant, perfect for scarves, shawls, or delicate cardigans.

It is also valued for its durability and natural resistance to water and pilling.

Mohair: volume and shine

Mohair comes from the Angora goat (not to be confused with the Angora rabbit). This wool is fine, shiny, and often blended with other fibers to soften its feel. It is used to add volume and a vaporous touch to creations.

Mohair is ideal for knitting light, fluffy sweaters or accessories with a fuzzy, chic look.

Cashmere: luxury and extreme softness

Cashmere is one of the finest natural fibers. Made from the undercoat of cashmere goats, it is extremely soft, highly insulating, and lightweight. It is often used for exquisite pieces such as fine sweaters, elegant scarves, and baby clothes.

Its higher price is justified by the rarity of the raw material and the exceptional fineness of the fiber.

Other types of wool: cotton, linen, synthetic and blends

Besides animal fibers, there are other types of wool and wool yarns suitable for various projects:

• Cotton : Perfect for summer projects, wipes, or baby clothes. It's soft, durable, and absorbs moisture well.
• Linen : appreciated for its freshness and strength, it gives a very natural rustic appearance to knitting.
• Synthetic fibers (acrylic, polyamide, etc.): less expensive, easy to maintain, often used for everyday projects or items that will be washed often.
• Blends : These combine the advantages of several fibers (for example, the warmth of wool and the strength of acrylic).

Knowing the properties of different types of wool helps you choose the right yarn for every project. Whether you're creating a soft baby garment, a warm scarf, or a chic accessory, each fiber has its role to play in the world of knitting .