Acrylic Yarn

Learn more about some of the major fiber types!

Acrylic yarn can refer to any fiber with a 90% synthetic base, so it can come in almost infinite shapes and sizes. Acrylic has excellent elasticity and will add memory to anything it is blended with. Acrylic doesn’t “breathe” the way that natural fibers do, so garments made of pure acrylic may feel stuffier than garments made of acrylic blended with other natural fibers. One of the great things about acrylic is that it is machine washable and can be washed over and over without losing shape or dimming in color. Be careful though, acrylic will melt if exposed to high temperatures! Do not iron it and be careful when machine drying — never dry it on the highest setting.

Acrylic yarn has excellent elasticity (second only to nylon) and, although not as strong as nylon and polyester, it wears better than pure wool. The lightweight, abrasion-resistant fiber also wicks away moisture and is quick-drying. As with other synthetic fibers, acrylic is not prone to moth and mildew damage but it is sensitive to heat and should be treated accordingly. Acrylic is wonderful to use in small percentages, as a lightweight strengthener for shorter-staple natural fibers, such as cotton. We also love to use it all on its own, or mixed with bamboo for a wonderfully soft, machine-washable yarn that is ideal for baby blankets and sweaters. It’s also a great yarn to learn to knit with, as it is inexpensive, and relatively forgiving as far as knitting, ripping back stitches, and re-knitting goes!

  • Type of fiber: Synthetic
  • Hand: Warm, with good elasticity
  • Care: Machine washable and dryable

View all of the acrylic yarn we have in stock by visiting our Custom Yarn Creator!

made with acrylic yarn

Source: The Knitter’s Book of Yarn: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing, Using, and Enjoying Yarn by Clara Parkes