About Cotton Yarn
Cotton yarn is a staple in any crafter's yarn stash. Cotton is a breathable fiber that feels soft against the skin. It is ideal to use for baby items and for clothing for people who are allergic to animal fibers such as wool. Since it is a lighter weight than wool, it is a favorite for knitting and crocheting summer items. Cotton yarn can be found in a plethora of colors and thicknesses, making it a versatile yarn to use.
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Types
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Yarn can contain 100 percent cotton, organic cotton, or cotton blends with nylon, rayon, silk and acrylics. Some yarn blends even include recycled cotton. Cotton yarns may be found in a huge variety of colors. Some cotton yarns are mercerized, or treated to be more lustrous and smooth, and some are unmercerized.
Positives
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Cotton yarn is comfortable next to the skin, so it is a great choice for garments that are worn close to the body, such as tops or shawls. Cotton yarn is more durable than acrylic yarn, making it a better choice for clothing. It is also a lighter weight yarn than wool and is better suited for summer temperatures. Additionally, cotton yarn is much more absorbent than other fibers such as wool or nylon.
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Negatives
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Cotton yarn is not the proper yarn for all knitting or crocheting projects. Since cotton in an inelastic fiber, it can stretch and lose its shape. It can be more tiring to knit or crochet with a less elastic yarn, so you should plan to take breaks while working on your project. Cotton yarn is also typically more expensive than acrylic yarns.
Projects to Make
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Cotton yarn is the first choice for crafters when looking for a yarn for kitchen and bath projects. The great absorbency of this yarn makes it perfect for knitting or crocheting items such as washcloths, place mats and dishcloths. Cotton yarn is also the appropriate choice when knitting or crocheting items that will be used in warmer weather, such as chemo caps for patients, baby items and summer clothing.
Where to Purchase
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Cotton yarns can be found in yarn shops as well as online at sites such as Herrschners.com. Most yarn manufacturers, such as Lion Brand, Red Heart and Berocco, also sell their yarn on company websites. Before purchasing cotton yarn, know if the item you are going to make is well suited for the fiber. Read packaging labels carefully to be sure you have the correct blend of cotton and correct weight of yarn.
Care
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Items made with cotton yarn are typically suitable for machine washing and drying. Wash kitchen and bath items in warm or cold water and dry them on medium heat. Wash clothing in warm or cold water and dry on medium heat until almost completely dry. Take the item out and hang or lay flat, depending on the garment, to finish drying. This will help avoid any shrinkage. If hanging, use a hanger that is strong enough to support the shape of the garment.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Yarn 1 image by Jeffrey Sinnock from Fotolia.com
