If you want to create your best knitting with a very soft yarn suitable for all types of garments and scarves, then you should consider merino wool. It will perfect your various knits by adding softness and flexibility.
What is Merino wool?
Merino wool comes from Merino sheep, a breed originating in Spain, initially gifted as a diplomatic present. The history of the Merino breed goes back many centuries, with significant growth in Australia.
The main countries producing it are Australia and New Zealand. This breed is raised solely for its wool, and a single sheep can produce 3 to 10 kg per year.
The benefits and specifics of Merino wool
Merino wool is luxurious: it is a soft and flexible fabric that does not cause itching. It is also a great alternative for people with many allergies as it is hypoallergenic. Moreover, for skin sensitive to UV rays produced by the sun, this fabric provides ideal protection, safeguarding the most sensitive skins.
Additionally, it regulates body temperature, making it a perfect asset for the coldest seasons since it guarantees suitable warmth throughout the day. It is also antibacterial, preventing the proliferation of bacteria responsible for bad odours and allergies.
Thanks to its moisture-absorbing properties, it is known to dry faster than other natural fabrics. Indeed, it absorbs up to 30% of its weight without having a wet appearance.
What can you knit with Merino wool?
This wool is often used for certain delicate and comfortable knits because of its fineness. Therefore, it is frequently used to knit garments that come into contact with the skin.
The wool will be used to make baby layettes or tops worn directly on the skin, as it has a softness that will not irritate sensitive skin. However, it is also a very good knit for everyday clothing like jumpers or cardigans, or accessories like scarves and hats. You can also mix it with cashmere or alpaca.
Care for Merino wool
Caring for products made with Merino is quite simple but requires some precautions to prevent damage. Merino wool can be hand-washed or machine-washed on a "wool" or "delicates" program. Use a gentle "special wool" detergent.
It's important to avoid putting knits in a tumble dryer, as the heat will alter the texture and shape of your garment. The same goes for ironing, which should be avoided. Dry your Merino wool knit flat on a terry towel to retain its original shape.
Fabric softener is not good for this type of knit, as it can damage the natural fibres of your garment, reducing its antibacterial effect.
