Marvelous Merino: One of the World’s best Yarns

Knowledgeable knit and crochet people are known for their outspoken opinions on the materials they use for “making”.  When discussing the best yarn for creating garments, “Merino” usually tops the list.  Long known for its durability as well as its soft “hand”, merino has a way of making a finished project look great. Merino's fibers are finer, which makes it softer, and longer, which makes it stronger. No doubt that is why one  of the most exciting new brands of DK weight knitting yarn and sock yarn is  made with merino wool.  Its list of positive attributes is lengthy and hard to beat:

·         Breathable

·         Non-itchy

·         Cool in summer & warm in winter

·         Repels unpleasant odors.

·         Wicks moisture away from the skin

·         Beautiful

BACKGROUND ON MERINO

Merino sheep are the source of merino wool.  

The CHARACTERISTICS OF MERINO YARN:

Merino’s Fineness:          17–22 microns in diameter (finer number = softer yarn)

Length of strand:           2½–4 inches (6.5–10cm

 Crimp:                         High, fine & even

 Luster :                        Low with sheen reminiscent of fine silk

 Suitable:                      For Next -to-Skin Garments

 Felting Quality:             Very high  - Avoid hot water at all times.

Note: Chart contents from: The Knitter's Book of Wool: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding, Using, and Loving this Most Fabulous Fiber . Copyright © 2009 by Clara Parkes; Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed. Kindle Edition.  

How to clean and dry Merino Wool

A cardinal rule when cleaning Merino is NO HOT WATER.  Merino is an easily felted yarn, so unless you wish to experience extreme shrinkage the only water it should ever be exposed to is super cool.  A number of commercially sold wool yarns are “machine washable,” which means it has been treated so that it can withstand the agitation of washing machines and the heat of the dryer. 

Wool is easy to clean, and many  knit and crochet artists will tell you that  they like to hand wash their finished projects.  It’s easy and fast and they don’t run the risk of letting a machine have its way with their hand-made work.  It’s also meditative in its own way. 

Start with cool water in a basin or a sink.  Add a small amount of pure soap (Ivory is good) or very mild wool wash to the basin.  Never use a detergent or you will run the risk of adding unwanted chemicals to the water.  (In a pinch you can even use a non-irritating baby shampoo.) Then simply dip your project in to the basin and swish it around.  Gently swirl it for a few minutes, until you are satisfied that is has been thoroughly immersed.  Check for any areas where it might have been stained and tenderly rub it, without force, to make sure it vanishes.  Then pick up the piece (if large, support it with both hands), drain the basin or sink and refill with cool water.  Repeat the process with the aim of removing all the soap.  You may need to do this a few times but it’s well worth taking the time to make sure it’s soap free.  Gently squeeze excess moisture out – but do not wring it like you would a face cloth.  Then roll it up in a towel to get the last bit of  water out.  On a protected and dry surface, put down another dry towel and lay the piece down and shape it, if needed.  Then walk away and let nature do its job of drying.  If you have access to outdoors, you can also dry it on a flat surface in a quiet corner of a yard or patio.  Just make sure its not in direct sunlight since you don’t wish to run the risk of fading. 

While we have written here about Merino, this information holds true for just about every pure wool yarn.  When you think about it, it makes sense to take good care of  any handmade product – whether it’s something you made,  bought or was gifted.  After all, the time and care that went into the crafting of an item is as worthy of respect as the person who made it – and the animal who provided it!