Variety of Rowan yarns

Many people think all yarn is essentially the same, but once you learn a little about the amazing variety of different yarns--what they are made of, how they are produced, and the different qualities of each--knitting simply rises to a different level. There are basically three types of yarn fibers: animal fibers, plant fibers, and synthetic fibers. A quality companies, such as Cherry Tree Hill, Debbie Bliss Yarn, Rowan yarns, will be able to offer a variety of high-end products that fall into one or more of these categories.

Yarns made with animal fibers include wool, silk, cashmere, mohair, angora, alpaca, and other rare materials. The Cherry Tree Hill yarn made from 100% rare suri alpaca is a wonderful example of the stunningly beautiful products created from these fibers. Cotton, linen, ramie, and rayon are all examples of plant fibers used to make yarn. Materials made from plant fibers have a smooth texture and make garments that are generally easy to care for, comfortable, and durable. Synthetic materials used to fashion yarn include nylon, polyester, acrylics, and metallics. These materials can be used alone but are often included in a blend, for example, wool with nylon. Blends are used to impart the desired characteristics of a synthetic material with the desired characteristics of a natural fiber. For example, cotton is often blended with polyester to create a yarn that washes well and retains its shape. In the same way, nylon is often blended with wool to create a more durable and elastic product.

Some yarn companies, such as Rowan Yarns, seem to have all the bases covered, but you will also find several top-notch companies that tend to specialize in different fibers. For example, Sirdar makes a host of popular novelty products, including their funky fur, wow, and eyelash yarns that are entirely synthetic or a synthetic blend. At the same time, there are companies such as Cherry Tree Hill Yarn that concentrate on natural fibers, while offering fewer, but no less stunning, synthetic novelty items. Natural and synthetic yarns each serve their intended purposes well, as long as they are well made. The important thing for any knitter or crocheter to keep in mind is choosing quality yarn that is suitable for the specific project.