Yearn Worthy Yarn: Rowan (U.K.)

In 2007, Rowan brand yarns introduced PureLife a wonderful selection of 100% organic cotton. In the following years Rowan has expanded their PureLife line to address other areas of sustainability.

Rowan still offers their organic cotton yarn in DK weight that is naturally dyed using plants. New this season is their 4 ply organic cotton yarn, also dyed with natural plant dyes. The shades of this yarn are soft, subtle and sweet, perfect for summer knitting.

Also from their PureLife label, Rowan offers organic wool. This yarn comes from sheep that are raised free of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. The eight colors that this yarn comes in also result from non-toxic plant dyes.

Rowan’s second yarn introduced under the PureLife label helps support local farmers and herders located in Yorkshire, England. The British Sheep Breeds Undyed comes in five amazing natural colors created by blending fibers from sheep found along the British hills.

It is heartening to see that in a matter of three years, Rowan has expanded their offering of sustainable and eco-friendly yarn options. Let’s hope it continues and eventually takes over the rest of their line.

Written by Kelly Rand

Kelly covers visual arts in and around Washington, DC for DCist and is editor of Crafting a Green World. Kelly has also been published by Bust Magazine and you can find her byline at Indie Fixx and Etsy’s Storque and has taught in Etsy’s virtual lab on the topic of green crafting.

Kelly helps organize Crafty Bastards: Arts and Crafts Fair, one of the largest indie craft fairs on the east coast and has served on the Craft Bastard’s jury since 2007. Kelly is also co-founder of Hello Craft a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the advancement of independent crafters and the handmade movement. Kelly resides in Washington, D.C. and believes that handmade will save the world.

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