Carded Yarn: Characteristics, Advantages and Why Choose It for Artisan Knitting

What is Carded Yarn?

Carded yarn is obtained through a textile fiber processing process that uses short fibers, often from shearing the less valuable parts of the animal, such as legs and belly. These fibers, after being cleaned and dusted, are subjected to carding , a process that disorganizes them and crosses them in all directions, creating a soft and voluminous ribbon. This ribbon is then spun and twisted to obtain a continuous and homogeneous yarn.

Distinctive Features

• Soft and Voluminous Appearance : Carded yarn has a slightly hairy surface and a more voluminous appearance than combed yarn, giving garments a rustic and welcoming look.

• High Insulating Power : Thanks to the disordered structure of the fibres, the carded yarn retains air better, offering excellent heat-insulating capacity, ideal for winter garments.

• Softness to the Touch : Despite the use of short fibres, carded yarn, especially if made with noble fibres such as cashmere, is extremely soft and pleasant on the skin.

• Natural and Artisanal Look : The slight irregularity of the carded yarn gives the garments an authentic and artisanal charm, highly appreciated in the world of sustainable fashion.

Advantages of Carded Yarn

• Sustainability : The use of short fibres, often discarded in other processes, makes carded spinning an ecological choice, reducing waste and valorising every part of the fibre.

• Versatility : Suitable for both knitting and weaving, carded yarn can be used in a wide range of projects, from sweaters to coats, scarves to blankets.

• Ideal for Winter Garments : Its ability to retain heat makes it perfect for creating garments intended for the colder seasons.

Carded Yarn vs. Combed Yarn

Cashmere Carded Yarn

When we talk about carded cashmere yarn , we combine the insulating properties and the artisanal look of carded with the extraordinary softness and lightness of cashmere. The result is a fine yarn, ideal for the creation of high-quality garments that offer unparalleled comfort and warmth.

Tips for Processing

• Test Swatch : Before starting a project, it is advisable to make a test swatch to evaluate the yield of the yarn and adjust the tension of the work.

• Beware of Pilling : Carded yarn, especially cashmere, may have a slight formation of pilling. It is advisable to use a lint remover to keep the garments always in perfect condition.

• Delicate Wash : We recommend hand washing or a delicate cycle in the washing machine, using detergents specifically for wool or cashmere garments.