Choosing the Right Fibre for Your Next Knit

Wool, Alpaca, Merino or Cotton?

Standing in front of the yarn shelves, wondering which one to grab? We’ve all been there. Choosing the right fibre can make a world of difference to how your project feels, drapes, and wears, so here’s a quick guide to help you pick your perfect match!

Wool:
The classic all-rounder. Wool is warm, springy, and forgiving — great for everything from jumpers to beanies. It’s got a little stretch (so your knits bounce back into shape), and it’s lovely to work with. Just keep in mind: some wools can be a bit itchy on the skin, so check if it’s soft enough for your project before committing.

Merino:
Think of merino as wool’s fancier cousin; super soft, smooth, and a bit more refined. It’s gentle on the skin, making it ideal for garments worn close to the body. Merino also has great temperature regulation, so it’s comfy year-round.

Alpaca:
If you want luxury, this is it. Alpaca yarn is silky, drapey, and seriously soft. It’s warmer than wool but has less elasticity, so it can grow a bit with wear. Perfect for scarves, shawls, and pieces where you want that beautiful, flowing fabric.

Cotton:
Cool, crisp, and perfect for summer makes. Cotton has no stretch but plenty of stitch definition, so your patterns will pop. It’s great for lighter tops, baby knits, and anything that needs to breathe — just remember, it’s heavier and can lose shape if stretched too much.

In short:
Wool for versatility, merino for softness, alpaca for luxury, and cotton for cool comfort. Once you know what you want from your project, whether it's warmth, drape, or breathability, the fibre will tell you what it wants to be!

Now go on, give those skeins a squish and see which one calls your name!