Yarn guide · Fibers
Yarn Fibers for Crochet: Cotton, Acrylic, Wool & More
How common yarn fibers behave in crochet — cotton, acrylic, wool, merino, bamboo and chenille — and which to choose for amigurumi, blankets, bags and wearables.
On this page
Two yarns of the same weight can behave completely differently because of their fiber. Fiber affects softness, warmth, drape, stretch, stitch definition and how a project should be washed. Here is how the most common fibers compare.
Cotton
Cotton is strong, breathable and shows crisp stitch definition. It has little stretch, so finished pieces hold their shape — ideal for bags, dishcloths, coasters, amigurumi and summer tops. It can feel a little stiff at first and some cottons split easily, so a smooth, mercerized cotton is friendlier to work with.
Acrylic
Acrylic is affordable, lightweight and machine washable, and comes in a huge range of colors. That makes it a favorite for blankets, kids’ items and practice projects. Lower-quality acrylic can pill over time.
Wool
Wool is warm, elastic and blocks beautifully, which makes it lovely for hats, mittens and garments. Untreated wool can felt with heat and agitation, so wash it gently unless the label says superwash. Some people find certain wools itchy against the skin.
Merino
Merino is a fine, soft wool that feels comfortable next to the skin. Superwash merino is a popular choice for baby items and wearables because it is soft and easier to care for.
Bamboo
Bamboo yarns (usually viscose made from bamboo) are smooth, cool and drapey with a gentle sheen. They are lovely for shawls and summer wear but can be slippery to work with and may stretch over time.
Chenille and velvet yarns
These plush yarns make incredibly soft blankets and amigurumi. They can be tricky: stitches are hard to see, the yarn is difficult to unravel, and loops can work loose if tension is uneven. Keep stitches simple and tension consistent.
Blends
Blends combine fibers to balance their strengths — for example, cotton with acrylic for softness and easy care, or wool with nylon for durability.
Which fiber for which project?
| Project | Good fiber choices |
|---|---|
| Amigurumi | Cotton, acrylic, chenille |
| Blankets | Acrylic, wool blend, cotton blend |
| Bags | Cotton, cotton blend |
| Baby items | Superwash merino, cotton blend, soft acrylic |
| Summer tops | Cotton, bamboo blend, linen blend |
| Hats and scarves | Wool, merino, acrylic |
Whatever you choose, make a small swatch and wash it the way you will wash the finished project. It is the quickest way to find out how a yarn really behaves.
Common questions
What yarn is best for beginners?
A smooth, light-colored worsted-weight acrylic or cotton blend. It is affordable, easy to see and forgiving of mistakes.
What is superwash wool?
Wool that has been treated so it resists felting in the washing machine. Always follow the care instructions on the label.
Why does my bamboo project keep growing?
Bamboo and other drapey fibers stretch under their own weight. Use a slightly smaller hook and dry the finished piece flat.
Written by
Editor — placeholder profile
This is a placeholder author profile. Before launch, replace it with the real person who writes, designs and tests the patterns on this site.
Placeholder profile — replace before launch
Put it into practice
Patterns to practice with
Free pattern
Free pattern
Free pattern
Newsletter
A little crochet inspiration in your inbox.
New free patterns, gentle tutorials and seasonal ideas — about twice a month.