Synthetic Yarn Sources
Information on the Source Fibers that Go Into Making Yarns
Knowing yarn properties can help in choosing the best for a project. Synthetic yarns are widely used-especially blends. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
Yarn is a continuous strand made up of fibers or filaments, used for making fabric or textiles of various kinds. The distinct types of knitting yarn are categorized by their weight, purpose, ply, source fiber(s), texture, color, and pattern. In addition, knitters choosing yarn will want to match yardage and gauge.
Synthetic (man-made) yarns are very popular; blends are especially well-liked, and new ones are always being developed. Knowing their properties will help when choosing among them for a project.
Synthetic Fibers (Man-Made)
Synthetics are well-suited for the many currently popular novelty yarns, and their range is vast. Manufacturers continually attempt to make synthetic yarns that mimic the best properties of the natural fibers. Synthetics are generally durable, water-resistant, and strong, but can also be somewhat non-breathable and non-insulating. Most are machine washable, but are very sensitive to heat, and they will melt or burn at fairly low temperatures. Nevertheless, knitters can’t help but be drawn to their seductive textures and rich colors.
Polyester: Polyester is made from a group of condensation polymers. It is resilient, smooth, crisp, and springy. It can be shaped with heat and is insensitive to moisture. It is lightweight, strong, and resistant to creasing, shrinking, and stretching. It is nicely washable, and is not damaged by sunlight, weather, moths, or mildew. Polyester is very often combined with other fibers.
Acrylic: Acrylic is a synthetic polymer fabric or yarn, and is lightweight and warm with a very wool-like feel. Although it is resistant to moths, oils, and chemicals, it is prone to static and pilling. 100% acrylic yarns can be a bit “cheap-looking,” if not chosen with care.
Nylon: Nylon was the first completely synthetic fiber. It is strong and resistant to many chemicals and moths. It is also easy to wash and is very non-absorbent. It can be a bit scratchy if not blended with another fiber.
Viscose / Rayon: Viscose is a man-made fiber made of wood or cotton cellulose treated with sodium hydroxide to make a liquid that can be extruded as cellophane or rayon yarn. Rayon fiber is quite absorbent, dyes very well, is soft, and has a nice drape. Although it may shrink, it does not melt at high temperatures, and it is resistant to moths, bleach, and many common household chemicals. Rayon thread is divisible, shiny, and good for blending, but is not hard wearing.
More Information
Yarndex has been heralded as the ultimate yarn resource, and it now features profiles for over 3,500 yarns. It is primarily a reference site that gives the details about yarns before a knitter purchases them. Their site is searchable by weight, content, brand, and more. Each yarn’s information, such as yardage, gauge, and care is supplied. Pictures and information of both current and discontinued yarns are included.
Related Articles: Animal-Sourced Yarn and Plant-Sourced Yarn.
