How to find the best knitting yarn – 10 tips to help you buy wool
Share
For us knitting enthusiasts, choosing the right yarn is a particularly exciting part of the creative journey. Maybe you already know the basics of knitting—but buying yarn? That's an art in itself! Let's discover some rather unusual, yet truly practical tips on how to find the best "yarn for knitting."
1. Try the wool before you buy
Imagine ordering a fancy yarn online – and then it starts to itch or looks completely different. This can be avoided by knitting a small swatch before purchasing. Either in the store or at home with a test ball. This way, you'll immediately know whether the yarn feels good and is a good fit for your project.
Because let's be honest: Who wants to knit a fancy cashmere scarf that ends up sitting in the closet because it's itchy? And by the way, you're also saving resources – every ball of wool you don't need doesn't end up as leftovers in the corner.
2. Combine your yarn scraps
Do you still have leftover wool from previous projects? Perfect! You can use them to create colorful scarves, blankets, or small accessories. Feel free to experiment with exciting color combinations or mix different yarns—your creativity knows no bounds.
3. Pay attention to the handle
The "feel" of the yarn—the way it feels in your hand—will tell you immediately whether it's the right yarn for your project. Soft and cozy for sweaters or sturdy for socks? Try it out—and see for yourself!
4. Get inspiration from yarn artists
Hand-dyed wool is not only beautiful but often produces extraordinary shades. Follow dyers on social media or browse blogs – this often leads to great project ideas.
5. Dare to try new fibers
Alpaca, silk, hemp, cashmere—the world of fibers is vast! Experiment and discover which yarns are best suited for what. Perhaps your next project will be a real eye-catcher made from a rather unusual fiber?
6. Play with yarn thicknesses
Fine lace yarns for delicate shawls or thick wool for cozy winter sweaters – yarn weight affects not only the look and feel, but also your knitting speed. Experiment; every weight has its own appeal.
7. Choose fair and organic
Wool with a clear conscience? It exists! Fairtrade or organic wool not only feels good on your skin, but also in your heart. Because it supports fair working conditions and sustainable production.
8. Use online pattern inspiration
If you're ever stuck for ideas or want to see what a yarn looks like knitted, click through online platforms like Ravelry, Rebecca Magazine , or Kristin Joèl's fantastic blog . There you'll find countless patterns, inspiration, and sometimes even free patterns.
9. Choose wool to suit the season
For winter: warm yarns like merino or alpaca. For summer: lightweight cotton or linen. If you keep these in mind, you're guaranteed to enjoy wearing your hand-knitted pieces often!
Here you will find all our yarn qualities at a glance: from fine merino wool and easy-care cotton blends to fine mohair and warming alpaca:
10. Support your local yarn shop
The small local shops are real treasure troves! You'll find not only special yarns there, but also good advice, inspiration—and sometimes even new knitting friends. If you live in the north, then visit the wonderful ggh warehouse outlet near Hamburg—on Mühlenstraße in Pinneberg, you'll find the large store with a wide selection of select wool qualities.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter – with a little curiosity, experimentation, and creativity, you're sure to find the perfect yarn for your next favorite project. Have fun trying it out!