What is knitting wool?

Wool is the first yarn or first word in fact, that comes to mind when we think of knitting. Knitting is the method of intertwining and manipulating threads of a fabric type, referred to as yarn, to create a texture, pattern and piece of garment. Wool is a natural yarn shorn from sheep most commonly. Some types of wool, like Merino wool or Alpaca, are produced from a rare variety of sheep like the Merino sheep or Alpaca wool from Alpaca goats. Cashmere is also a type of knitting wool that’s more refined in its extraction process as compared to the regular wool. Cashmere is combed and collected from the animal and not directly shorn off the body of the sheep. This makes it more expensive and much softer in feel.

Wool Yarn:

When we talk of knitting, we most commonly refer to the sheep wool which is found in abundance and used to make winter wear. This is one type of knitting wool which is sturdy, strong. Wool is also a little itchy which can be uncomfortable for a few people. Wool is stretchy, which is why it should be blocked to retain shape. You can choose your knitting wool based on your preferences between soft, economical, flow type and touch and feel.

Merino and Cashmere wool yarn:

Merino wool and Cashmere are more expensive wool types because their extraction is laborious and the animals they are extracted from are rarer. However, Merino is extremely soft in feel and touch and breathable as well. It is also warm and cosy. Similarly, Cashmere is again a very soft type of wool, but is quite exquisite and gives a more formal feel to the fabric, making it ideal for occasions. Cashmere shawls are quite a famous garment in India and especially donned during winter to add more style and regal splendour to a party look.

Shapes and Weights:

Knitting wool comes in many shapes and forms. It can be wound like a ball or twisted like a plait or made into a hank. The choice depends on the knitter’s comfort and expertise at knitting. The easiest to work with is the typical ball of wool yarn. However, hanks look beautiful and are the most professional types of wool yarns to be used by expert knitters.

Yarns are also available in various weights, from the lightest and thin nest to the thickest and bulkiest. Thinner yarns are more difficult to knit with. The thicker yarns are quicker to knit with and also easier to see. Again, the choice of yarn for knitting depends on the knitter’s skill expertise in the activity.

Vardhman Knitting Yarn:

Vardhman offers a wide range of knitting yarn in multiple ball shapes, colours, weights and patterned yarns as well. Vardhman Group has over one million spindles in their manufacturing unit and is among the largest yarn producers with 60 - 65 metric tons of yarn being manufactured daily.

       Start your next knitting project with Vardhman Knitting Yarn!