How to Knit With Wool

Wool is the ideal yarn for many knitting projects and one of the easiest for a new knitter to use. Wool has a natural elasticity and is available in a wide variety of yarn weights and textures. Wool is produced from the sheared fleece of a variety of types of sheep and can range from coarse and functional to soft and luxurious. You can find wool yarns in both natural tones and dyed ones in every color imaginable, including hand painted yarns.

Things You'll Need

• Wool yarn Knitting needles Knitting pattern of your choice

Instructions

1. Choose the right wool yarn for your project. Consider the weight of the wool yarn, the texture of the wool and whether or not it has been chemically treated to allow for laundering ease. Lace weight wool is typically used for fine shawls, while fingering weight is common for gloves or socks. Knit sweaters in weights ranging from fingering to bulky.

2. Select your needles. Wool yarn knits easily on bamboo, wood, metal or plastic knitting needles. Bamboo needles are light and easy to use, while sharp metal needles can make it easier to knit lace. Most knitters have a needle preference, and wool yarns work well with all types of knitting needles.

3. Knit a gauge swatch. Depending upon the twist and plies of your wool yarn, you may find that your gauge with wool is tighter or looser than with acrylic or cotton yarns. Adjust the size of your knitting needles as needed to produce a fabric that has a good body and drape in wool for your final project.

4. Cast on and begin your knitting project. Working in wool yarn is very much like working with any other yarn. You may find that you have less hand fatigue with wool than with artificial fibers or cotton. Knit your project as the pattern directs and finish as needed.

5. Soak your completed wool knitting in lukewarm water with a small amount of shampoo or commercial wool wash. Allow the finished item to soak for around 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse, carefully avoiding any agitation. Press the excess water out of your wool garment using towels.

6. Block your knit garment into shape on a flat surface. If your pattern has set measurements, shape the garment to those measurements. Otherwise, simply make sure that all edges lay flat, collars and cuffs are nicely shaped and you are happy with the overall appearance of your wool knitting. Take this opportunity to gently pull in one direction or another if needed to improve the fit of your final wool knit garment.

Tips & Warnings

• Use superwash wool if you need to be able to wash your final project. Wool blends can offer additional softness or durability. Plied wool yarns are often more durable than single ply.

• Avoid washing and drying wool to prevent felting.