Yarn Reviews
Guides, analysis, and thought leadership
Luxury Fibers & Indie Dyers
We explore everything from hand-dyed skeins to premium commercial blends, helping you find the perfect match for your next sweater or accessory.
For Every Fiber Artist
Whether you are a beginner knitter or an advanced crocheter, our practical insights guide you toward the best materials for your specific skill level.
Practical Testing Methods
We evaluate drape, stitch definition, and wearability, applying techniques like the Cocoknits Method to ensure your chosen yarn performs beautifully.
To see how these fiber evaluations translate to the needles, consider swatching a new silk-merino blend for a draped shawl. Start by casting on 30 stitches using a needle one size larger than the ball band recommends, working in your chosen lace motif for at least four inches. Bind off loosely, then submerge the swatch in lukewarm water with a gentle wool wash for fifteen minutes. Pin the damp fabric to your blocking mats, stretching it aggressively to open up the yarnovers, and let it dry completely overnight. Unpin the swatch and hold it against your collarbone; this immediate tactile test reveals exactly how the silk content affects the drape and whether the merino provides enough memory to hold the blocked lace points.