Wool Allergy or Sensitivity? Consider these Alternative Yarns

November 19, 2018| Crochet

Lately, I’ve been hearing from a lot of you that you have wool sensitivities. So I decided to do a little research on the subject to try and find out more about wool allergies in the craft community.

Apparently, about 20% of the population struggle with sensitivities and allergies to wool fibers. And while it’s rare to have a pure wool allergy, it is common to experience discomfort or a rash when coming into contact with the fiber.

I found out that a lot of people are allergic to lanolin (which is a naturally occurring oil in wool-bearing animals) or animal dander within wool. So, if you’re unsure whether you’re allergic to lanolin or not, it’s worth doing a patch test. It could open up a world of yarn possibilities if you know this information.

But for those of you who suffer from wool and everything that comes with it, I’ve compiled a list of some yarn alternatives. Some of my favorite yarns in various weights, so you’re covered for any project you work on!

Cotton and Cotton Blends

Cotton is a natural, lightweight fiber that makes breathable garments. There is a trick for getting denser fabrics when crocheting or knitting with this loose yarn. You can size down your needles/hook for a firmer, denser look. It’s also machine washable and water absorbent. Perfect for projects that will be worn a lot and need easy care.

Rowan Handknit Cotton
100% cotton, 93 yds
DK weight

DMC Natura XL
100% cotton, 82 yds
Super Bulky

Blue Sky Organic Cotton
100% Organic Cotton, 150yds
Worsted

Knit 1 Crochet Too 2nd Time Cotton
75% cotton/25% acrylic, 180yds
Worsted

Berroco Corsica
90% cotton/10% cashmere, 150 yds
DK weight

Acrylic and Acrylic Blends

Acrylic is similar to cotton in how easy it is to clean and care for. It’s also one of the most affordable options on the market. Acrylic is a good option for some of your warmer weather projects as it can be insulating. And because it’s so easy to dye, you can get this yarn in any colors you want!

Universal Yarn Major
100% acrylic, 328yds,
Bulky

Berroco Comfort DK Solid
50% Acrylic/50% Nylon, 178 yds,
DK weight

Silk and Silk Blends

Silk is known for being soft and luxurious but it has a lot of other amazing properties too. The fiber has a natural wick which keeps you cool in summer and warm in the winter. It’s also a really strong and durable fiber. Silk is amazing because it is hypoallergenic so it’s perfect if you have allergies to other fibers. I wouldn’t suggest using this fiber if you’re making a piece that requires a lot of stretching though, as silk is inelastic.

Habu A 48 Nerimaki Ito
100% silk, 130 yds,
Fingering weight

Malabrigo Mora
100% Mulberry Silk, 225 yds,
Fingering weight

Knit One Crochet Too Cozette
62% Silk/30% cotton/8% polyamide, 255-273 yds,
Fingering weight

Anzula Breeze
65% Silk/35% Linen, 750 yds,
Lace weight

Linen

Linen fibers are extracted from the Flax plant and are known for being incredibly durable. It’s hypoallergenic and it’s breathable just like cotton. Linen is also a more sustainable fiber than some of the others on the market, and it softens over time. Linen is great for your more structural projects.

Erika Knight Studio Linen
85% Recycled Linen/15% Premium Linen, 131 yds,
DK weight

Lang Lino
100% Linen, 120yds,
Worsted

Bamboo and Bamboo Blends

Bamboo is another hypoallergenic yarn option. It’s incredibly eco friendly making it one of the best fibers to use. It’s also antibacterial and sweat absorbent, making it good to wear in the summer months or on vacation. And it’s soft and insulating so you can wear it in the winter months as well. This fiber is truly a catch all and even has natural UV protection. It’s by far one of my favorites and the perfect replacement for wool.

Vinnis Colours Serina
100% Bamboo, 121 yds,
Sport weight

Vinnis Colours Tori
50% Bamboo/50% cotton, 95 yds,
Bulky

Alpaca and Alpaca Blends

If you aren’t allergic to all animal fibers, consider trying Alpaca yarn. Alpaca fibers are really insulating and even warmer than wool. It’s actually one of the most durable fibers out there and is flame resistant. This is a great yarn choice for generational pieces like holiday stockings since it can hold up to the test of time. This won’t work for you if you’re allergic to animal dander however.

Blue Sky Melange
100% Alpaca, 110 yds,
DK weight

Amano Puyu
70% Alpaca/30% silk, 82yds,
Bulky

Galler Yarns Peruvian Tweed
100% Alpaca, 600 yds,
Worsted

Some other amazing options, which you’ll often find in blends, include rayon, polyester, soy and cashmere.

Rayon

Rayon can add a luster and softness to yarn. It’s really comfortable and durable when dry. And it oftentimes is a very affordable fiber. Rayon can be challenging to clean, as its integrity is compromised when wet, so keep this in mind when using it.

Polyester

Polyester is another affordable option that is often found blended with other fibers. Unlike rayon, polyester is resistant to shrinking and its fibers are strong. It does not wrinkle easily either. It also has moisture wicking properties making it good for athletic wear and cold weather.

Soy

Soy can be a really good alternative to silk, and it’s more affordable. It has a similar smooth texture and it drapes beautifully. Soy fabric is insulating and warm, perfect for winter knits and crochets. Soy is also super easy to care for and strong so it will last you a while.

Cashmere

Cashmere can be a good alternative to those who aren’t allergic to animal dander or all animal fibers. It’s much softer and smoother than sheep’s wool, and it is adaptable to temperatures. It will keep you cool in Summer and warm in Winter. The fiber also has natural stretch and dyes beautifully. If you’re unsure if this fiber will bother you, try it in a blend. The smaller content might be safe and it could open up this soft fiber possibility to you.

I’d love to hear what your favorite alternative fiber is to use. They all serve different purposes and are amazing in their own unique ways. An allergy shouldn’t prevent you from living your best *crafter* life.

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Lily Cowl Crochet Pattern

November 8, 2018| Crochet

Lily Cowl Crochet Pattern

Hi all! I hope you’re enjoying this chilly weather as much as I am.

If you’ve kept up with my latest post, you know all about my FREE yarn box from MakerU. Every subscription to MakerU receives a free box of over $100 worth of yarn and I was lucky enough to snag one of my own.

I’ve been so inspired by all of these unique and colorful yarns I received. And I’ve been stitching up projects like a mad woman. I’ve even been experimenting with some new stitches, such as the shell stitch in my new Simple Shells Light Wrap. It’s perfect for a walk outdoors or to take on vacation.

Well, I wanted to share my latest creation with you too. I tested out the intricate Lily of the Valley stitch in my Lily Cowl. This stitch is so easy. It’s only a series of double crochets in a one-row repeat. But it looks complex and impressive.

And the detail of the stitching looks beautiful with the Karaoke yarn from my box. It only took about 440 yards of yarn, so it’s a quick and easy pattern to stitch up. I initially liked this yarn because my daughter’s favorite color is purple, and I knew she’d love whatever I made. And I had 4 skeins of it, so it was perfect!

The yarn has a subtle gradient, which adds a rich dimension to the cowl. The Karaoke is a soy silk/wool blend. It’s soft and great for felting too. And it comes in a ton of vibrant shades.

It would make a great gift this holiday season, or keep one for yourself. It’s perfect for chilly weather and the color is beautiful on anyone.

You can get a bunch of your own surprise luxury yarn by subscribing to MakerU here. When you sign up you get a box of over $130 of luxury yarn shipped to you for free. Every box of yarn comes in a ton of various fibers and colors. You can use some of it to make the Lily Cowl or who knows what else your yarn may inspire! I still have a couple of ideas myself.

Click here to purchase an ad-free printable PDF of this pattern for your convenience. This PDF pattern also provides you with bonus crochet tips and tricks pdf.

NOTES:

Pattern in U.S. crochet terminology

SKILL LEVEL: EASY

MATERIALS:

- Hook: U.S. J10/6.0mm

- Worsted weight yarn – 440 yds

Darning Needle & Scissors

ABBREVIATIONS:

- st = stitch

- sk = skip

- ch = chain

dc = double crochet

FINISHED SIZE: 14” high x 13.5” wide (folded in half)

Pattern

Start by chaining 56 chains

Row 1: 3Dc in the 4th chain from the hook, * sk 3 chains, 3dc in the next stitch. Repeat from * across the rest of the row ending with 2 dc in the last stitch. Ch3, turn. (see photo 1)

Photo 1

Row 2: 1 dc into the space after the 2 dc’s (photo 2), then dc all the way down into middle chain of that space (ch 2 of the 3 chains) from our initial row of chains making sure to pull up to the same height as your dc before this one (photo 3), 1 dc into the space before the next 3 dc start (photo 4-5); *skip 3 dc, dc into space (photo 6), dc into middle chain from row below, dc into space before next set of 3 dc’s*, repeat from * across rest of row ending with 2 dc in the space between the last 2 dc’s from the previous rows. Ch3, turn.

Photo 2

Photo 3

Photo 4

Photo 5

Photo 6

Row 3: 1 dc into the space after the 2 dc’s, then dc into the middle dc (of the 3 dc below the space) from the previous row making sure to pull up to the same height as the previous dc , 1 dc into the space before the next 3 dc start; *skip 3 dc, dc into space , then dc into the middle dc from the previous row making sure to pull up to the same height as the previous dc , 1 dc into the space before the next 3 dc start*, repeat from * across rest of row ending with 2 dc in the space between the last 2 dc’s from the previous rows. Ch3, turn.

Repeat Row 3 for rest of pattern until you’ve reached 27” inches or desired length.

Finishing: Fold in half and seam the edges together using the whip stitch. Weave in any loose ends.

Looking for more great crochet patterns: Boot Cuffs, Crochet Fingerless Gloves, Done In A Day Baby Blanket , Easy Crochet Can Cozy , Tulip Textured Crochet Dishcloth , Colorful Solid Granny Square Dishcloth , Easy Cozy Crochet Blanket , Crochet Beach Bag , Outland Cowl , Caps for a Cause , Crochet Infinity Scarf , Crochet Cat Bed , Crochet iPhone Case , Easy-Peasy Crochet Beanie

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Baby Bumps Blanket Crochet Pattern

November 7, 2018| Crafts & DIY, Crochet

Baby Bumps Blanket Crochet Pattern

This beautiful little baby blanket is the perfect gift for a baby shower or a baby’s first Christmas.

Whatever you make this for, a baby will love the fun texture of the baby bumps crochet blanket. It’s perfect for little hands.

It gets most of this texture from a series of double crochets but the color really sets the stitchwork off. The baby blanket is working in a series of 5 colors ranging from pink to blue to creams and greys.

All the shades are a 100% wool yarn called Cascade 128 Superwash. It’s machine washable and crochets up quickly. It’s also incredibly soft which is perfect for sensitive baby skin.

I think this would make a thoughtful gift for a new mother. Or bring it with you to the hospital the day the new baby arrives! I still remember my first baby blanket. They’re special keepsakes and this would be such a treasure to gift to someone in your life too.

You can pick up a crochet kit with all 5 shades of yarn and a digital pdf pattern here. It has everything you need to stitch this up in time for the holidays.

Click here to purchase an ad-free printable PDF of this pattern for your convenience. This PDF pattern also provides you with bonus crochet tips and tricks pdf.

NOTES:

Pattern in U.S. crochet terminology

SKILL LEVEL: EASY

MATERIALS:

- Hook: U.S. N/10.0mm

- Bulky Yarn – 780 yds. Cascade 128 Superwash in 5 complimentary colors. Used in these photos – 2 x White (0871), 1 x Summer Sky Heather (1910), 1 x Tutu (1963), 1 x Silver (1946), 1 x Charcoal (0900)

Darning Needle & Scissors

ABBREVIATIONS:

- st = stitch

- sk = skip

- ch = chain

- sc = single crochet

dc = double crochet

FINISHED SIZE: 28” wide x 30” long

Pattern

With color A chain 82

ROW 1: Sc in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each remaining chain until you reach the end of the row. Ch2, turn.

ROW 2: 3dc into the stitch at the base of the chain, *sk the next 3sc, (sc, 3dc) in the next sc; repeat from * to last 4 stitches, sk 3 sc, sc in the last sc; ch2, turn.

ROW 3: 3dc into the stitch at the base of the chain, *sk the next 3dc, (sc, 3dc) in the next sc; repeat from * to the last stitch of the row, sc in the 2nd ch of turning chain-2; ch2, turn.

REPEAT Row 3 for rest of pattern

Color Changes:

- Row 1 – 5: Color A

- Row 6 – 7: Color B

- Row 8 – 9: Color C

- Row 10 – 11: Color D

- Row 12 – 13: Color E

Row 14 – 17: Color A

Repeat color change pattern above 3 more times for a total or 53 rows.

Finishing:

Add the desired amount of fringe to both ends of the blanket.

This Baby Bumps blanket is so squishy and soft. The thick texture and fun colors make it perfect for a newborn. And it even has fun little tassels attached which they’ll love to play with and hold onto.

Looking for more great crochet patterns: Boot Cuffs, Crochet Fingerless Gloves, Done In A Day Baby Blanket , Easy Crochet Can Cozy , Tulip Textured Crochet Dishcloth , Colorful Solid Granny Square Dishcloth , Easy Cozy Crochet Blanket , Crochet Beach Bag , Outland Cowl , Caps for a Cause , Crochet Infinity Scarf , Crochet Cat Bed , Crochet iPhone Case , Easy-Peasy Crochet Beanie

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Simple Shells Light Wrap Crochet Pattern

November 2, 2018| Crochet

Simple Shells Light Wrap Crochet Pattern

Hi all. I wanted to share a recent creation I made.

Sometimes you find the pattern and get a yarn to match. But this time around it was the yarn that inspired my Simple Shells Light Crochet Wrap Pattern. Let me fill you in on where I acquired this magical yarn.

MakerU is currently giving out free yarn boxes (over $100 worth!) with every new MakerU Unlimited subscription. The subscription grants you access to over 30 designer classes as well as an additional 70+ patterns.

Every box has a variety of yarns of various fiber contents and I was lucky enough to receive one. I even did a little unboxing video to share with everyone what types of yarns came in my box. I want to talk more about my creation. But before I do, go ahead and check out all the goodies I received.

So, if you haven’t guessed, I decided to use the Ava yarn from Classic Elite Yarns. It’s a beautiful metallic silver yarn; a blend of viscose, wool, and polyester. Right off the bat, I had a vision for this particular yarn.

And that’s how the Simple Shells Light Wrap came into being. This beautiful crochet shawl is really delicate and simple to make. It uses the crochet shell stitch which, paired with the subtle metallic yarn, adds a beautiful textural wave to the wrap.

It’s a lightweight shawl to take on vacations with you or for mild weather. It can also be worn in a variety of ways, so it would be a beautiful holiday gift.

Throw it over your shoulders for an elegant drape or wrap it into a chunky crochet scarf for a cold walk outdoors.

I had been wanting to make a shawl for quite a while but I was having trouble finding inspiration. With the yarn box, it gave me access to yarn I never would have seen before. And good quality yarn too. And after crocheting this shawl, I still have tons of yarns left over to add to my stash.

You can easily get your very own yarn box too. Subscribe to MakerU here and they’ll go ahead and ship out your box. I received soy silks and wools, and an array of other interesting fibers. It’s always nice to receive a mystery box full of goodies. And when you’re a crafter like me, no yarn goes unstitched.

Simple Shells Light Shawl Crochet Pattern

SKILL LEVEL: Beginner

MATERIALS:

Hook: U.S. J10/6.0mm

Yarn: DK or Light Worsted Weight Yarn – 800 yds total

Tools: Scissors, tapestry needle

ABBREVIATIONS:

- st = stitch

- sk = skip

- ch = chain

- sc = single crochet

dc = double crochet

SPECIAL STITCHES: This crochet shawl pattern uses a shell stitch: 3dc, ch1, 3dc into the same space.

SPECIAL INFORMATION: This pattern is worked as a 2-row repeat.

FINISHED SIZE: 18” wide x 58” long

PATTERN:

Chain 72 + 4 (76 total)

ROW 1: Starting in the 2nd chain from the hook, sc into each stitch until you reach the end

of the row. Ch3 (counts as first dc of the following row), turn.

ROW 2: Dc into the next 2 stitches, sk 2 stitches, (dc, ch2, dc) in the next stitch, sk 2 stitches, *dc in 3 stitches, sk 2 stitches; repeat from * across; end last rep with dc in last 3 stitches, ch3, turn.

ROW 3: DC in the next 2 dc; *shell ( 3dc, ch1, 3dc) in the next ch2 space, dc in the next 3 dc; rep from * across, ch 3 turn

ROW 4: Dc into the next 2 dc; *ch1, sk first 3 dc of the shell, in ch1 space of shell work (dc, ch2, dc), sk next 3dc; rep from * across; ch3, turn.

ROW 5: DC in the next 2 dc; *shell ( 3dc, ch1, 3dc) in the next ch2 space, dc in the next 3 dc; rep from * across, ch 3 turn.

REPEAT Rows 4 – 5 for the rest of the pattern until you reach the desired length ending on a row 4.

LAST ROW: DC in the next 2 dc; *small shell ( 3dc) in the next ch2 space, dc in the next 3 dc; rep from * across, ch 3 turn.

Break off yarn and weave in ends.

Finishing: Add desired amount of fringe to each end of the crocheted shawl.

Remember, you can easily get your very own yarn box too. Subscribe to MakerU here and get your new luxurious yarn today!

Looking for more great crochet patterns: Boot Cuffs, Crochet Fingerless Gloves, Done In A Day Baby Blanket , Easy Crochet Can Cozy , Tulip Textured Crochet Dishcloth , Colorful Solid Granny Square Dishcloth , Easy Cozy Crochet Blanket , Crochet Beach Bag , Outland Cowl , Caps for a Cause , Crochet Infinity Scarf , Crochet Cat Bed , Easy-Peasy Crochet Beanie

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