What is Acrylic yarn

Description

Acrylic yarn is a synthetic fiber, formed of polymers created from petroleum products by melting and extruding the materials into long, thin fibers. The properties of acrylic yarn vary depending on the treatment of the fibers.  Tightly twisting fibers results in a strong but rough textured yarn. A looser twist will result in a softer yarn.

Characteristics

Low cost, wide availability, and durability are some of the main characteristics of acrylic yarn. Basic characteristics include:

• Low cost
• Available in many colors
• Ideal for heavy usage
• Machine washable
• Great for people with allergies

Best Used For

Acrylic yarns are great for beginners due to the high availability, low cost and durability. Many are yarns are machine washable and some may even be able to dried in a drier.

Not recommended for

Acrylic yarns are not recommended for anything that will expose them to high heat or flame. Being made primary from petroleum by-products Acrylic yarns are highly flammable and may melt when exposed to high heat.

Popular Brands

Popular brands of acrylic yarns include:

• Red Heart Soft
• Caron One Pound
• Caron Cakes Yarn
• Loops and Threads Charisma
• Lily Sugar ‘n Cream Yarn
• Lion Brand Scarfie Yarn
• Premier Cotton Fair Yarn

Conclusion

Acrylic yarn is a readily available, inexpensive yarn, perfect for beginners, and yields durable, washable projects. It is not well suited for projects that will submit the yarn to open flame or high temperatures.

So, if you are a beginner, and are looking for an easily accessible, inexpensive way to start knitting or crocheting, acrylic yarn is a good choice for you. If you are more experience and want something that is durable and washable, acrylic yarn may work for you as well.

 As always, thanks for taking the time to read our blog.

Lyn