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Types of Yarn: Complete Guide for Crafters, Weavers & DIY Makers
From Soft to Strong, Understand What Makes Each Yarn Type Unique
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Yarn isn’t just for knitting sweaters. It’s the foundation of countless craft disciplines like crochet, weaving, macramé, embroidery even packaging. And yet, with so many yarn types on the market, it’s easy to feel unsure about what’s actually right for your next project.
Some yarns are soft and stretchy. Others are rigid, textured or rustic. Some hold knots well, while others are chosen for their drape or sheen. And beneath all that is an even bigger difference: what the yarn is made from.
This guide breaks down every major type of yarn by fiber category, animal, plant, synthetic by explaining how they perform, how much they cost, how easy they are to care for and what crafts they support best.
Table of Contents:
Hemptique – Focused on Natural Yarns with Purpose
At Hemptique, we specialize in high-quality, plant-based yarns made for both everyday crafters and eco-conscious brands. Our focus is on fibers that feel good in your hands and break down naturally when their job is done.
If you're looking for yarn that's strong, breathable and biodegradable, hemp yarn is one of the most versatile options you can use. Our hemp yarn balls are tightly spun for strength and texture, ideal for crocheting, weaving, packaging and rustic decorative work.
For those who want a little softness with their structure, the hemp-cotton blend yarn offers a smoother hand-feel without sacrificing durability. This yarn pairs the strength of hemp with the familiarity of cotton, making it ideal for garments, soft home décor and flexible craft projects.
What Is Yarn Made Of? And What Is Yarn, Really?
Yarn is a long, continuous strand of fibers twisted together to create a material suitable for textile work.
- Animal fibers like wool, alpaca or silk
- Plant fibers like cotton, flax (linen) or hemp
- Man-made synthetics like acrylic or nylon
- Regenerated fibers like bamboo rayon or modal, which come from plant cellulose but are chemically processed
At its core, yarn consists of:
- Fiber base (natural or synthetic)
- Twist direction (Z-twist or S-twist)
- Ply count (number of strands spun together)
- Optional dye or coating
Some yarns are tightly plied for durability. Others are loosely spun for softness or fringe work. Texture, weight and fiber source all affect how a yarn behaves whether it frays, brushes out, stretches or holds its shape over time.
Types of Yarn by Fiber Origin: Animal, Plant and Synthetic
Understanding yarn types starts with their fiber origin. Each category, animal, plant or synthetic has distinct properties that influence how the yarn behaves, how it feels, how much it costs and how well it fits certain crafts.
Wool (including merino, alpaca and cashmere)
Wool is made from the fleece of animals, primarily sheep, though other popular variations include alpaca, cashmere (goat) and mohair. Wool fibers are naturally crimped, which gives them stretch and resilience. This makes wool a forgiving yarn to work with, especially in knitting.
Advantages:
- Naturally elastic and holds shape well
- Great for garments because of its memory and flexibility
- Great for garments because of its memory and flexibility
- Blocks and felts easily for shaping
Disadvantages:
- May cause irritation or allergies in sensitive users
- Prone to felting or shrinking if not washed carefully
- Often requires handwashing or special care
- Not vegan or plant-based
Recommended for
Knitted garments like sweaters, scarves, mittens and socks. Also great for felting, structured crochet items and cold-weather accessories.
Knitted garments like sweaters, scarves, mittens and socks. Also great for felting, structured crochet items and cold-weather accessories.
Linen (Flax)
Linen yarn is spun from the stalks of the flax plant. Like hemp, it’s known for being strong and breathable, with a slightly crisp feel. It’s less elastic than most fibers, but that structure makes it perfect for precise knotwork and clean edges in textile projects.
- Cool to the touch and breathable
- Improves with age, gets softer with each wash
- Extremely durable and naturally pest-resistant
- Low water requirement in cultivation
Disadvantages:
- Less flexible and may feel stiff at first
- Tends to crease and wrinkle
- Doesn’t hold warmth as well as wool
- Requires blocking to retain shape
Recommended for
Summer garments, wall hangings, table runners, lacework and projects where structure matters more than drape.
Summer garments, wall hangings, table runners, lacework and projects where structure matters more than drape.
Bamboo Rayon
Though marketed as a natural fiber, bamboo yarn is actually regenerated cellulose (similar to rayon). The plant is sustainable, but the manufacturing process often involves chemicals unless labeled as lyocell or closed-loop processed.
- Very soft with a silk-like drape
- Naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial
- Moisture-wicking and breathable
- Biodegradable under the right conditions
Disadvantages:
- Can split while crocheting or knitting
- Often less structured and may sag
- Sensitive to heat and prone to pilling
- Eco-benefits depend heavily on how it’s processed
Recommended for
Shawls, baby clothing, undergarments, warm-weather scarves and drapey weaving.
Shawls, baby clothing, undergarments, warm-weather scarves and drapey weaving.
Silk
Silk yarn is derived from silkworm cocoons and has a smooth, luxurious texture. It has very little elasticity but incredible tensile strength and shine. While beautiful to work with, it’s often reserved for advanced projects due to its cost and sensitivity to handling.
- Naturally lustrous and drapes well
- Stronger than most fibers despite its softness
- Accepts dyes deeply and evenly
- Lightweight but insulating
Disadvantages:
- Slippery and delicate during use
- Expensive and not widely available in large skeins
- Not plant-based or cruelty-free in traditional production
- Limited elasticity
Recommended for
Luxury items such as evening shawls, fine scarves or lace projects. Also useful in weaving and specialty embroidery.Cotton
Cotton is a soft, plant-based fiber that’s widely used for yarn. It’s non-stretchy, absorbent and naturally breathable, making it ideal for warm climates and beginners who want a stable fiber to work with.
- Readily available and cost-effective
- Machine-washable and durable
- Non-allergenic and suitable for babies or sensitive skin
- Comes in a wide range of weights and colors
Disadvantages:
- Little to no elasticity, which can strain hands during crochet
- Prone to splitting with sharp hooks or needles
- Can shrink if not prewashed
- Less insulating than wool or synthetic blends
Recommended for
Crochet dishcloths, summer tops, baby items, light throws, macramé and coasters.
Crochet dishcloths, summer tops, baby items, light throws, macramé and coasters.
Hemp
Hemp yarn is made from the bast fibers of the hemp plant. It’s incredibly strong, naturally textured, and a sustainable alternative to synthetic or resource-intensive fibers. Hemp has a distinct, slightly coarse texture that softens over time or when blended with cotton.
Advantages:
Advantages:
- High tensile strength and abrasion resistance
- Naturally antimicrobial and mold-resistant
- Minimal water required to grow the plant
- Fully biodegradable when undyed and unblended
Disadvantages:
- Coarse at first use (though softens with washing)
- Less drape than bamboo or silk
- More muted in color tone
- Low stretch and bounce
Recommended for
Weaving, packaging, garden twine, crocheted baskets or bags, wall hangings and plant hangers. For softer yarn, try a hemp-cotton blend.
Related reading: What Is Hemp Yarn?
Acrylic
Acrylic is a petroleum-based synthetic yarn. It’s created to mimic the texture and performance of wool but without the same care requirements or cost. While popular for beginners and budget-conscious projects, it lacks the breathability of natural fibers.
- Inexpensive and widely accessible
- Machine-washable and easy-care
- Comes in many colors and textures
- Doesn’t felt or shrink
Disadvantages:
- Doesn’t biodegrade
- Can pill with use
- Feels “plasticky”
- Lacks breathability and natural warmth
Recommended for:
Amigurumi, practice projects, acrylic blends for outerwear, children’s items that require frequent washing.
Amigurumi, practice projects, acrylic blends for outerwear, children’s items that require frequent washing.
Polyester / Nylon Blends
These synthetic blends are typically used for durability or flexibility, especially in performance wear or when stretch is needed. They’re not commonly used in traditional fiber art but do appear in utility yarns and cordage.
- High durability and strength
- Water and mildew resistant
- Can be blended with natural fibers to add resilience
Disadvantages:
- Environmentally persistent
- Doesn’t feel like natural fiber
- May deform or melt under heat
Recommended for
Heavy-duty bags, outdoor crafts, upholstery repair or industrial applications where sustainability is not the priority.
Heavy-duty bags, outdoor crafts, upholstery repair or industrial applications where sustainability is not the priority.
| Yarn Type | Fiber Origin | Texture | Elasticity | Care Level | Cost | Biodegradable | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wool | Animal | Soft, springy | High | Moderate | Medium–High | Yes | Garments, felting, winter items |
| Silk | Animal | Smooth, shiny | Low | High | High | Yes | Lacework, accessories, luxury |
| Cotton | Plant | Soft, matte | Low | Low | Low | Yes | Dishcloths, light garments, crafts |
| Hemp | Plant | Textured, firm | Very low | Low | Medium | Yes | Weaving, packaging, macramé |
| Linen | Plant | Crisp, structured | Low | Moderate | Medium | Yes | Decor, accessories, wall hangings |
| Bamboo Rayon | Regenerated Plant | Silky, drapey | Medium | Moderate | Medium | Partially | Shawls, wraps, baby garments |
| Acrylic | Synthetic | Soft, synthetic | Medium–High | Very low | Low | No | Practice work, toys, budget crafts |
| Polyester / Nylon | Synthetic | Stretchy, smooth | High | Low | Low | No | Outdoor gear, accessories, blends |
Pick the Right Yarn for Every Type of Craft
The yarn you choose can dramatically affect the success, feel and longevity of a project. Beyond color or thickness, what truly matters is the fiber’s structure, how it performs during crafting and how well it holds up with use. Here’s what to consider before committing to a yarn type:
1. Match the Yarn to the Craft
Different crafts place different demands on yarn. Consider the tension, finish and wear expected from your project:
- Knitting or Crochet Garments: Look for yarns with softness, drape, and stretch like wool, cotton, or blends with silk or bamboo.
- Macramé or Fiber Wall Art: Structured plant fibers like hemp or linen hold knots well and display texture beautifully.
- Weaving: Choose a warp yarn with high strength (hemp or linen), and experiment with texture and color in the weft (cotton, wool, bamboo).
- Packaging or Gift Wrap: Opt for rustic textures like hemp yarn balls or twisted linen cords for an authentic, eco-conscious finish.
- Outdoor Projects: Use mold-resistant yarns like hemp or synthetic blends, depending on how long the project needs to last.
2. Consider Texture and Tension
Some yarns glide smoothly across hooks and needles, while others provide grip or texture that resists slippage:
- Smooth yarns (like silk or bamboo rayon) offer good drape but can be slippery.
- Textured yarns (like hemp or linen) grip and hold shapes but may feel coarse at first.
- Lofty or springy yarns (like wool) provide memory and flexibility for wearables.
3. Evaluate Yarn Thickness (Weight)
Not all yarns are available in standard weights, especially natural or artisan types. Always check product descriptions or test before starting a pattern. A thicker yarn will create bulk and speed, while finer yarns allow for detail and softness.
4. Sustainability and Disposal
If sustainability matters to your brand or personal values, prioritize yarns made from:
- Renewable crops (hemp, flax, cotton)
- Biodegradable materials
- Recycled content (for synthetic blends)
- Yarn with minimal or no chemical processing
Plant-based yarns like those found in Hemptique’s collection offer strength, biodegradability and a lower environmental impact, making them a conscious choice for both hobbyists and professional makers.
5. Think About Longevity and Washability
Ask yourself how often the item will be used, whether it needs to be machine washable, and if it must resist pilling or sun exposure. For high-use items, cotton and acrylic blends may hold up best. For one-of-a-kind art or packaging, artisan-grade hemp or linen offers the perfect look and texture without long-term durability concerns.
Discover More in the Hemptique Knowledge Base
If you're exploring different types of yarn for crafting, you’ll find helpful resources in the Hemptique Knowledge Base. It’s designed for crafters, fiber artists, and beginners who want to understand the materials they use, how they perform, how to store them and how to make smart substitutions across projects.
- What Is Hemp Yarn? – Understand how hemp yarn is made, what makes it different, and how it behaves in craft applications.
- Best Yarn to Learn Crochet – A beginner-friendly guide to choosing the right yarn weight and texture when starting with crochet.
- Crafts with Yarn – Inspiration and ideas for using yarn in creative ways beyond traditional knitting or crochet.
- Weave Yarn 101 – Learn the basics of yarn used in weaving, how to choose warp vs. weft, and how yarn type affects tension and texture.
- Garden Twine Guide – See how strong yarn and twine can be used outdoors for practical, biodegradable applications.
Each resource is created to answer common questions and offer practical insights whether you’re planning your next crochet project, weaving a wall hanging or choosing yarn for packaging and presentation.
Yarn Defines the Structure and Feel of Your Work
Yarn is more than fiber spun into a strand. It determines structure, feel, durability, appearance and whether your final piece lives up to the vision that sparked it. Each yarn type brings unique characteristics, and understanding those differences lets you make smarter, more satisfying choices from the start.
Animal fibers give warmth and bounce. Plant-based yarns add strength and natural texture. Synthetic options offer affordability and ease of care. No single type is better than all the rest, each serves a purpose depending on how and where it's used.
If your focus is on natural craftwork, sustainable packaging or textured fiber art, yarns made from hemp, flax or cotton offer practical benefits and an authentic finish. For softness and flow, bamboo rayon and wool blends open up more options.