Why does yarn choice matter?
Choosing your knitting yarn is perhaps the most important step before starting any project. A well-chosen yarn makes the difference between a piece you'll lovingly wear for years and one that stays in your drawer. Whether you're knitting for the first time or have experience, this guide will help you understand what types of natural yarns exist and how to choose the right yarn for each project.
At Nara Knits, we believe that knitting deserves quality yarns. That's why all the yarns in our shop are made from 100% natural fibers — no acrylic, no compromises.
Types of natural yarns and their characteristics
Each natural fiber has its own personality. Here are the most popular options and what makes them special:
Merino wool is the queen of knitting yarns. Fine, soft, and elastic, it's perfect for almost any project: sweaters, cardigans, shawls, hats, and gloves. Merino regulates body temperature — keeping you warm in winter and breathable in summer. Our merino yarns, such as Double Sunday by Sandnes Garn or Fine Merino by Majo Garn, are ideal for both beginners and experienced knitters.
Cashmere is the luxury yarn par excellence. Extremely soft and lightweight, pure cashmere offers an incomparable feel to the touch. The Classic yarn from Cardiff Cashmere in Italy is a perfect example — thin, elegant, and surprisingly durable. We recommend cashmere for premium accessories: scarves, fine sweaters, and special pieces that you knit with love.
Mohair comes from the Angora goat and is known for its delicate halo — that fine aura that makes knitwear appear ethereal. Mohair yarns, such as Tynn Silk Mohair by Sandnes Garn (a blend of mohair, wool, and silk), are extremely lightweight and warm. Mohair is often knitted double, together with another strand, for a sense of depth and texture.
Alpaca is a warm, hypoallergenic natural fiber, ideal for people with sensitive skin. The Alpakka Ull yarn from Sandnes Garn combines alpaca with wool, providing exceptional warmth without weight. Alpaca also has a beautiful natural drape, making it perfect for shawls and ponchos.
How to choose the right yarn weight
Yarn weight determines the texture and density of the final project. Thin yarns (lace, fingering) create fine and delicate knits — ideal for shawls and summer blouses. Medium yarns (DK, worsted) are the most versatile, suitable for classic sweaters and accessories. Thick yarns (bulky) knit up quickly and create thick projects, perfect for blankets and oversized cardigans.
For beginners, we recommend starting with a medium-weight yarn (DK or worsted), made from merino wool. It's easy to work with, forgiving of small mistakes, and the result looks professional even from the first project.
Practical tips for choosing yarn
Before buying, consider a few things: what you will knit (sweater, shawl, hat?), in what season the project will be worn, and how much comfort you want to the touch. If you're not sure which yarn is right for you, at Nara Knits you can order free samples to feel the texture and see the real color before deciding.
Investing in premium natural yarns shows in every knitted stitch. A project made from merino, cashmere, or alpaca is incomparable to one made from synthetic fiber — neither in appearance, nor in durability, nor in the pleasure of wearing it.
Discover the complete collection of premium knitting yarns at naraknits.com and choose the perfect yarn for your next project.
