Project Slow Crochet Christmas Jumper - Yarn Selection
Welcome back, crochet enthusiasts, and greetings to any new readers joining us on this slow crochet journey! In case you're new here, I'm on a mission to crochet my very own Christmas jumper, embracing the joy of slow crocheting. Although my chosen pattern, the Marzanna sweater by Tinderbox doesn't feature traditional Christmas motifs, it still fills me with festive spirit. Now, let's dive into the exciting world of yarn selection for this special project!
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Fibre Choice
The Marzanna sweater is designed to be crocheted with DK weight yarn - the example photographed (photo used with the designer’s permission) was made using Lion Brand Superwash Merino in shades sage and antique. As I explore yarn options, I want to share my limited experience with different fibre types. Whilst acrylic yarn if often my go-to for its affordability, I'm now seeking a special yarn that will provide longevity and excellent washability.
When it comes to durable and long-lasting options, wool and wool blends stand out. They offer warmth, softness, and breathability, making them ideal for a garment meant to withstand the test of time. However, within the realm of wool, there are various options to consider. Merino wool is highly sought after for its fine fibres and luxurious feel, while Blue Faced Leicester (BFL) wool offers durability and a lustrous sheen. Other animal fibres like alpaca, cashmere, and mohair bring their unique qualities into the mix too.
It's important to weigh the positive and negative properties of each fibre before making a selection. While wool provides excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties, some people may find it itchy or have allergies. Availability and cost may also vary across different types of wool. Exploring local yarn shops or online suppliers can help you discover a wide range of options and find the perfect fit for your project.
Additionally, it's worth considering whether to opt for superwash or non-superwash yarn. Superwash yarns are chemically treated to make them machine washable, offering convenience and ease of care. However, the process of superwashing can sometimes compromise the natural elasticity and stitch definition of the yarn. Non-superwash yarns, on the other hand, require more delicate handling but often retain their natural qualities and stitch definition better.
Check out the other blog posts in this series:
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
As we explore the world of yarn choices for our slow crochet Christmas jumper, it's essential to consider the environmental impact and energy use associated with different fibre options and yarn treatments. Making mindful decisions not only benefits our crafting experience but also contributes to a more sustainable future.
When it comes to environmental considerations, natural fibres such as wool, alpaca, and cotton have an advantage over synthetic fibres such as acrylic. Natural fibres are biodegradable, renewable resources that have a lower carbon footprint and require less energy-intensive manufacturing processes. Opting for locally sourced or ethically produced yarn can further reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation and production.
When considering the superwash treatment, it's important to note that the process typically involves the use of chemicals and additional energy to remove the scales on the wool fibres. While superwash yarns offer the convenience of machine-washability, the environmental trade-off is the increased energy and water usage during production.
Embracing a slow crochet journey can include the pleasure of handwashing our cherished creations. Handwashing not only allows us to take gentle care of our handmade garments but can also be a meditative and enjoyable process, further deepening our connection to our craft. By adopting conscious washing practices, using eco-friendly detergents, and minimising water consumption, we can reduce our environmental impact and extend the lifespan of our crochet creations.
Affordability
The price point of yarn is also an important consideration for this project - given the time and effort that I am dedicating to this project along with my desire to create a garment that will stand the test if time. Yarn can range from affordable mass-manufactured options to luxurious hand-dyed varieties, each offering unique qualities and considerations.
Mass-manufactured yarns, often available at craft stores or online retailers, tend to be more budget-friendly. They come in a wide range of colours and fibre options, making them accessible to a broader audience. However, it's important to keep in mind that there may be variations in quality and consistency, particularly when it comes to dye lots.
Dye lots refer to yarns that are dyed together in the same batch, ensuring colour consistency. When purchasing yarn, it's essential to buy all of the required skeins in one go, ensuring they come from the same dye lot. If dye lots differ, even slightly, it can result in noticeable colour variations in the finished garment. Therefore, planning ahead and buying the required yarn at once is crucial for a consistent look (and avoiding later frustrations).
Where affordability is a factor there are several options to explore. Upcycling yarn from an old or thrifted garment can be a creative and cost-effective solution. By unravelling and repurposing the yarn, you can give new life to forgotten garments while infusing your Christmas jumper with a unique touch. This is also an environmentally friendly option.
Another affordable approach is to consider thrifted or de-stash yarn. Many crafters and yarn enthusiasts offer their unused or surplus yarn at discounted prices. Joining online platforms or local knitting and crochet groups can connect you with such opportunities, allowing you to score great deals and support fellow crafters.
Check out our blog post ‘20 ways to make crocheting more affordable’ for more budget friendly crochet tips.
During my journey of seeking affordable yarn options for my Christmas jumper, I reached out to fellow crafters for recommendations. They generously shared some fantastic suggestions, with a focus on yarns that cost no more than £10 per 100g (considering the quantities required for this project). FYI, some of their recommendations may require the use of discount codes or waiting for sales to meet my personal budget.
One highly recommended brand is Knit Picks, known for its wide range of yarns that cater to various budgets. Their selection includes affordable options such as Wool of the Andes, which offers a great balance between cost and quality. King Cole is another brand that offers affordable yarns with a diverse range of fibre blends, including acrylic, wool, and nylon.
Cascade Yarns, a well-regarded brand in the knitting and crochet community, offers a range of affordable options suitable for a Christmas jumper project too. Their yarns come in a variety of weights and fibre compositions, ensuring plenty of choices to meet different project requirements.
Drops is a brand recognised for its affordable prices and extensive yarn selection. They offer a wide range of natural fibres, including wool, alpaca, and cotton, with many options falling within the desired price range e.g. their Drops Merino Extra Fine yarn.
Debbie Bliss is a beloved brand that provides both affordable and high-end yarns. Their collections feature a blend of natural fibres and synthetic materials, offering a wide range of colours and textures for various projects.
While these recommendations offer budget-friendly choices, it's worth noting that hand-dyed (usually STUNNING) yarns often come with a higher price tag. Hand-dyed yarns are artisanal creations, carefully crafted in small batches. They often feature unique colour combinations and variations that add a special touch to any project. Brands like Malabrigo, Madelinetosh, and Hedgehog Fibres are known for their exquisite hand-dyed yarns, but usually fall outside of my £10 per 100g budget (unless you can take advantage of significant discounts or sales).
Don’t forget that some yarn suppliers (like LoveCrafts) offer discounts to Blue Light Card holders!
When it comes to selecting the colours for my Christmas jumper, I've decided to break away from the traditional red and green tones. Whilst they hold a special place in many people's hearts, I've always felt that purple and blue are more in keeping with my personal style and complement my complexion better.
Purple, with its rich and regal allure, has always captivated me. From deep and luxurious plum shades to softer lavender hues, there's a wide range of options to explore. The versatility of purple would allow me to create a Christmas jumper that stands out with its unique and sophisticated vibe.
On the other hand, blue evokes a sense of tranquillity and serenity. Whether it's a delicate baby blue or a bold and striking navy, blue hues add a touch of elegance to any garment. Opting for blue in my Christmas jumper would allow me to infuse a sense of calmness and refinement into my festive attire.
Choosing colours that align with my personal preferences will not only make the crafting process more enjoyable but also ensures that the finished piece will truly reflect my style and individuality (and that I’ll keep wearing it lol). Stepping away from the traditional red and green palette will allow me to make a bold statement and express my creativity in a way that feels authentic to me.
So, this year, I'll be embarking on a slow crochet journey to create a one-of-a-kind Christmas jumper in shades of purple or blue. With every stitch, I'll be infusing my own festive spirit into the project, and I can't wait to see the final result.
Remember, when it comes to colour selection for your own Christmas jumper, there are no limitations. Follow your instincts, embrace the hues that resonate with you, and let your creativity soar!
Remember, the joy of creating your own Christmas jumper lies not only in the final result but also in the process and the materials you choose. Let your creativity and budget guide you as you explore the wide array of yarn options available and have fun selecting the perfect yarn to bring your project to life.
Stay tuned for the next blog post in this series, where I'll reveal the yarn I've selected for my Christmas jumper and share more progress on this exciting slow crochet journey.
Happy yarn hunting and budget-conscious (if required) crafting!
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