Yarn Care Instructions - FAQ's
General Care Questions
How should I wash my hand knitted items?
Always check the yarn label first. Most luxury yarns we sell will benefit from gentle hand washing in cool water with a wool specific detergent.
Avoid agitation, as this can cause felting. Gently squeeze out excess water (never wring), then lay flat to dry on a clean towel.
We highly recommend using Eucalan Delicate Wash. This link will take you to the Eucalan Delicate Wash products.
Can I machine wash items made from your yarns?
Some of our yarns are superwash-treated and can be machine washed on a gentle cycle. Where the yarn is superwash-treated and able to be machine washed, we have noted that in the detailed care instructions and fibre content listed on the yarn pages in this store.
We recommend hand washing for all luxury fibres including Baby Yak, Merino, Shetland Wool, Corriedale, and Cashmere to preserve their quality and longevity. Always check the specific yarn's care instructions.
How do I block my finished projects?
After washing, gently reshape your item to its correct dimensions and pin it to a blocking mat or clean towel. Allow it to dry completely in this position. This helps even out stitches and achieve the intended drape and measurements.
Fibre Specific Care
How do I care for Merino wool items?
Merino is delicate and should be hand washed in cool water with a gentle wool wash. Avoid hot water and agitation. Lay flat to dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Store folded (not hung) to prevent stretching.
What's special about caring for possum blend yarns?
Possum fibre blends are incredibly soft and warm. Hand wash in cool water with minimal handling. The fibre is naturally insulating, so avoid heat when drying. These items benefit from gentle steaming to refresh between washes.
How should I care for Cashmere items?
Cashmere requires gentle care. Hand wash in cool water with a gentle wool wash or Cashmere specific detergent. Never twist or wring. Roll in a towel to remove excess water, then lay flat to dry. Store with cedar or lavender to protect from moths.
Can I wash Corriedale wool items?
Yes, Corriedale is a hardy fibre but still benefits from gentle care. Hand wash in cool/lukewarm water, avoiding temperature changes that can cause felting. This fibre blocks beautifully, so take advantage of blocking to showcase stitch definition.
Storage & Maintenance
How should I store my yarn and finished items?
Store yarn and knitwear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use breathable cotton bags or bins rather than plastic. Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter moths. Always store knitwear folded, never hung.
How do I protect against moths?
Natural fibres are susceptible to moths. Store clean items only (moths are attracted to oils and dirt). Use cedar, lavender, or moth repellent sachets. Regularly handle and air out stored items and inspect for signs of damage.
How often should I wash my hand-knits?
Most wool and luxury fibres are naturally odour resistant.
Wash only when necessary, some advise washing after 3-5 wears for garments, or when visibly soiled. Regardless, we recommend washing before storing your items for any length of time. However, be aware over washing can cause extra wear to the fibres.
Troubleshooting
My item has pilled. What should I do?
Pilling is natural, especially in the first few wears. Gently remove pills with a sweater comb or fabric shaver. As long as you follow the instructions for use, this won't damage the garment and will restore the fabrics smooth appearance.
Can I fix a felted item?
Unfortunately, felting is usually irreversible. Prevention is key: always use cool water, avoid agitation, and never put non-superwash wool in the washing machine or dryer.
How do I remove stains from wool?
Treat stains promptly by blotting (not rubbing) with cool water. For stubborn stains, use a small amount of wool safe detergent. Test any treatment on an inconspicuous area first.
Product Specific Questions
Where can I find care instructions for a specific yarn?
Most yarn pages in this store have detailed care instructions and fibre content listed on them. You can also refer to the ball band/yarn label that came with your purchase for washing symbols and recommendations.
We recommend including care instructions with any hand knitted gifts so the lucky recipient knows how to care for the item.
Do you recommend any specific wool washes?
We recommend using Eucalan Delicate Wash. Eucalan is non-toxic, biodegradable, free of optical brighteners, phosphates, synthetic fragrance and dye and is pH neutral.
Eucalan uses lanolin to act as a natural conditioner and is available scented or unscented. Scented varieties are made with only quality essential oils.
This link will take you to the Eucalan Delicate Wash products.
Still have questions? Contact us and we'll be happy to provide specific care advice for your project.