Yearn Worthy Yarn: Tencel

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It’s not often that you come across a different type of fiber found in your yarn. There are only so many animal (alpaca, bison, musk ox, etc.) and plant (linen, cotton, etc.) based yarns. So I was pleasantly surprised when I happened upon tencel.

Tencel is made from wood pulp that is spun down to make the fiber. The process boasts environmental claims as the pulp that is harvested comes from tree farms that are continuously replanted and the spinning process uses non-toxic solvents.

As a yarn tencel is strong and durable. It resists wrinkles and can hold a shape. It also has the look of silk and carries a nice warm luster. It is a washable fiber and dyes easily and weavers like to use it for these qualities.

You can find 100% tencel at Halcyon Yarn. They offer it in a variety of colors on mini cones and 1 pound cones. But tencel is most often found in yarn blends, either with cotton or wool. Cascade Yarns offer a 50/50 blend of pima cotton and tencel.

My favorite, though, is One Planet Yarn and Fiber’s blend: Radiance. Radiance is a super wash merino wool/tencel blend. The result is a lightweight wool that is soft and can be worn virtually year round. Their variegated colorways are simply wonderful. I especially love beach, ember and snapdragon.

Etsy also had a wealth of spinners using tencel in their blends. A quick search here found a plethora of yummy yarns and batts using some percentage of tencel to create wonderful blends and colorways. If you have the urge to check out this plant based fiber, I highly recommend finding a tencel blend here.

More Fiber and Fabric:

• Organic Linen
• Your Yarn Stash
• Andover Vegetable Dye Cottons

[Image credit: Halcyon Yarn]