Yarn is created when two or more threads are spun together continuously or plied to create a single strand. There are many benefits to doing this as it makes the threads stronger, more stable and all-around more consistent to work with.

The simplest way to find out what ply your yarn is would be to simply unravel the end of the yarn and count the threads, however in many countries, ply refers to the weight of the yarn and not the threads themselves.

Types of Yarn:

Merino Wool

Merino wool, as the name suggests comes from the Merino sheep and is considered to be one of the softest yarns you can buy. It is much finer than other types of wool and can be worn without the risk of itching and irritation.

However, a downside is that because it is a finer yarn it tends to be more delicate to work with. 

Wool

Probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of yarn. Wool comes from sheep and is warm and durable, making it a great choice for warm clothing. Despite the benefits, some people may find wool itchy, as with most yarns of animal origin.

A yarn blend of wool and acrylic is a popular choice because it combines the softness of wool and the durability of acrylic. 

Alpaca Yarn

Alpaca yarn is made from the wool of the alpaca and is considered to be more of a luxurious version of wool, being warmer in general as well as being lighter and more durable. Pure alpaca yarn is also hypoallergenic though it may cause rashes to people with sensitive skin.

Cashmere Yarn

Known as one of the softest fibres in the world, yarn made from cashmere can be woven into luxurious and soft garments that stand the test of time. It is one of the most popular yarns for hobbyists of all skill levels, though its cost may turn some away. It is also hypoallergenic but as with all yarns of animal origin, it may be itchy to people with sensitive skin.

Silk Yarn

A highly luxurious and expensive yarn, projects made with silk yarn feel smooth and cool to the touch while also possessing a regal shine. This premium yarn may be slippery and difficult to work with but the end result will be worth it with its impressive strength. Silk is also hypoallergenic and is suitable for even the most sensitive of skin. 

Bamboo Yarn

Known as an eco-friendly yarn, the harvesting process does not kill the bamboo plant, making it sustainable and affordable. During the harvesting process, the grass is split down into a cellulose state where it is then spun together to create a silky smooth yarn.

Garments made from bamboo yarn are lightweight, breathable and cooling, making it great for the warmer months. However, because it is a natural plant fibre, it is susceptible to mildew and can even lose its strength in water. 

Acrylic Yarn

Considered to be one of the most common types of yarn, acrylic yarn is made from chemicals such as petroleum and is the most affordable yarn in the market, making it good for all skill levels.

Due to the nature of acrylic, this yarn is not the most eco-friendly and some types may even release microplastics into the water when being washed. The more common downsides to acrylic are that it is less durable.

Cotton Yarn

Frequently found in washcloths and dishcloths, cotton is known for its fantastic durability and ability to hold water. It is also a great yarn for beginners as it tends not to fray and split as much, as well as your end product having more defined stitches. However, it is inelastic and may be rough on the hands.

Dyed cotton, especially the darker colours, have a higher chance to bleed out in the wash, hence special care during washing is recommended. 

Blended Yarn

Blended yarns are created when you combine two or more different types of yarn to create a thread that exhibits the advantages of component yarns. The two most common blends are polyester/cotton and polyester/viscose yarn.

Different blends produce different results. For example, a cotton and polyester blend is less likely to shrink, wrinkle, and cause static.

Milk Cotton Yarn

Milk cotton yarn is a semi-synthetic blend made up of mostly cotton and milk fibre. Popular among beginners for being inexpensive, it is also very soft and smooth with the added benefit of being durable.

Being a cotton blend, stitches are well defined and is less rough to work with compared to cotton yarn and there is also a minimal risk of itching and irritating your skin.