Good Yarn for a Baby

Certain types of yarn make for happier babies.

When you are knitting or crocheting a baby blanket or other items for an infant, there are several things to look for in a yarn: material that is soft, hypoallergenic, durable, washable and appropriately colored.

Texture

Softness is the key in knitting or crocheting things for baby. To make sure that it is soft enough not to irritate delicate baby skin, always feel yarn before buying.

Allergies

Babies have very delicate skin, and may be allergic to synthetic dyes or fibers used in some yarns. It is also a good idea to finish any knit or crochet projects intended for babies by washing them, to get rid of any chemicals or treatments that may be on the yarn.

Durability

Choose a yarn that can stand up to all the stress a baby may inflict on anything made out of it.

Washability

Everybody knows that babies are messy, and a yarn that is easily washed is key when making things for infants.

Color

Most people choose pastel colors for babies, but it's not completely necessary. As long as the yarn feels soft and hasn't been chemically treated, any color yarn can be used when baby apparel or accessories.

References

• Bernat: Baby Yarns