YARN REVIEWS

S WAT C H E S S H OW N AC T UA L SIZE

Shade pictured Natural (63) Skein weight/length 100g/192m Needle size 4.5-5.5mm (UK 7-5/US 7-9) Tension 18 sts to 10cm Fibre content 100% superwash merino wool Care Machine wash RRP £11.99 Contact www.woolwarehouse.co.uk

A superwash version of Malabrigo’s classic Worsted base, this yarn is created from 100% merino wool. Its neat stitches form a next-to-skin fabric that comes with a comfortable, warm feel, which is perfect if you’re looking to knit cosy accessories or garments. As well as Natural seen here, there is a wonderful range of variegated, kettle-dyed shades.

Shade pictured Royal Purple (252) Ball weight/length 50g/150m Needle size 3-3.5mm (UK 11-10/9/US 2/3-4) Tension 27 sts and 33 rows to 10cm Fibre content 50% bamboo, 20% cotton Care Machine wash at 400C RRP £2.99 Contact www.scheepjes.com

We love the sensual stitches delivered by Bamboo Soft from Scheepjes. After just a few rows your knitted fabric delivers a lovely lustre, promising draping garments that will keep you cool during the summer and warm in the winter. Combined with cotton, this yarn creates breathable fabrics that will withstand regular washing with ease.

Shade pictured No 44 Ball weight/length 50g/165m Needle size 3-3.5mm (UK 11-10/9/US 2/3-4) Tension 24 sts to 10cm Fibre content 100% organic cotton Care Machine wash 400C RRP £4.40 Contact www.tribeyarns.com

This organic cotton is sown, grown and harvested without use of chemical pesticides and artificial fertiliser. Its high-quality, hard-wearing cotton makes it perfect for cool clothing, washing many times without losing its shape. You’ll fall in love with its smooth and luxurious feel. This 4ply comes in a range of tonal colours that are beautifully subtle.

Shade pictured Poor Unfortunate Souls Skein weight/length 100g/425m Needle size 3mm (UK 11/US 2/3) Tension 30 sts to 10cm Fibre content 75% superwash merino wool, 25% nylon Care Hand wash RRP £17 Contact www.dyecandy.co.uk

Super Sock from indie dyer Dye Candy comes in vibrant speckled and solid colourways, with names that will put a smile on your face - how about Cake Coma, or Catnip For Killers? This high-twist 4ply yarn offers exceptional stitch definition, and its mottled-looking fabric, with a smooth touch, is ideal for knitting up a pair of extravagant socks.

Shade pictured Natural Grey Skein weight/length 100g/350m Needle size 4.5mm (UK 7/US 7) Tension 21 sts to 10cm Fibre content 100% British wool Care Hand wash RRP £16 Contact www.northernyarn.co.uk

Embrace this classic delight! Made from a blend of wonderful wools from four different Lancashire and Cumbria sheep breeds, Methera is a worsted-spun 4ply-weight yarn. It knits up into strong yet draping fabric that maintains a delicate woolly halo you’ll love. Cast it on for those traditional, everyday garments that you’ll want to wear forever.

Shade pictured Bordeaux (558) Skein weight/length 100g/400m Needle size 3.25mm (UK 10/US 3) Tension 28 sts and 36 rows to 10cm Fibre content 80% Falkland Island wool, 20% mulberry silk Care Hand wash RRP £14.75 Contact www.wyspinners.com

This new addition to the West Yorkshire Spinners range knits up into a dreamy fabric that creates luxurious garments effortlessly. Its mix of Falkland wool and mulberry silk creates a perfect stitch definition and an elegant sheen. We defy you not to fall in love with this elegant yarn in its regal range of colours. Use it for extra-special garments and accessories.