Looking for a cuddly, textured yarn? Faux fur fibers might be the perfect choice for you. I explore what faux fur yarn is, and ways to use it for knitting.
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Frustrated Teacher Quits In Disgust, Sells The Farm, Moves The Family Halfway Across The World And… Starts Knitting
I reviewed, fact checked and updated this post on May 14, 2023.
Table Of Contents
What Is Faux Fur Yarn?
Faux Fur yarn is a synthetic fiber sold at moderate prices. This fiber isn’t popular because it’s not widely used, however, it’s soft, cuddly, textured, and fun to add to projects. They’re smooth and great for creations needing furry yarn. It’s much thicker than other fine fluffy yarn.
Where It Comes From
It’s composed of different materials, typically polyester. Sometimes, it’s made from a modified version of acrylic yarn, called modacrylic.(1)
How It’s Made Into Yarn
The fibers are cut to create a hairy or fluffy effect and twisted together to make the thread. It’s one of many types of novelty yarns available for knitting.
How To Wash Faux Fur Yarn
Here are the care instructions for faux fur fibers.
- Most faux fur yarns need handwashing
- Use cold water and a mild detergent
- For those that don’t – machine wash on cold and tumble dry on low
- Don’t expose it to heat
- Lay flat to dry
Always check the yarn label for instructions specific to the yarn you’re using.
Does It Shrink When Washed?
It’s resistant to shrinking and won’t felt.
How To Soften Faux Fur Yarn
Washing it after you’ve finished knitting always helps!
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What Do You Use It For?
Wondering whether you should use it to make a project? Here’s why this fiber is used to make yarn. It’s often used for knitting projects and things like fingerless gloves, a faux fur scarf or multiple scarves, stuffed animals, garments and knitwear, toys, cuffs on clothing as an accent, and a sweater.
Or a hat/hats, home décor items like blankets and pillows, a beanie, and a cowl or several cowls. Why not make a pom-pom as a finishing extra for an already knitted piece? Keep in mind it’s fiddly to knit with just like other slippery yarns and hard to see your stitches, so I don’t recommend this for beginners! Once you get the hang of it, it’s easy to knit with.
Keep it from attracting dust by keeping it in a nifty holder item like a yarn bowl. For more info on these handy tools read my post.
Also, the stitch definition isn’t great, so stick to something simple like stockinette stitch or garter stitch. A neat trick is to use light-colored needles, so it’s easier to see the stitches. A tip is using big stitch markers if you need to keep track of the rows you’re knitting.
There are many free patterns you could try. One free knitting pattern I recommend trying is the Ephemeral Cowl by Hannah Maier. It’s knitted in the round. It’s nice and warm around your neck! It’s one size too, so it fits child and adult sizes. Quick to make and ready to wear.
Want more inspiration and ideas? Look at the knits on Pinterest, or patterns by Handy Little Me.
Where To Find It
Here’s where to find this yarn: At a yarn store or craft stores in your area, at big box stores like Michaels, Walmart and Joann, and online brand shops often sell it. Here are brands or manufacturers of faux fur yarns to try: Fable Fur from Knit Picks, Lion Brand Yarn, or Sirdar Alpine.
What’s The Price Like?
It’s usually moderately priced, but the premium polyester ones are more expensive.
FAQS About Faux Fur Yarn
Is Faux Fur Yarn Safe For Babies?
No, it’s not safe for babies because it’s a choking hazard.
Is Faux Fur Yarn Ethical & Eco-Friendly?
The environmental impact of faux fur yarn is less than real fur. Faux fur is made from synthetic materials, typically polyester. Polyester is a petroleum-based product, and the production of it creates harmful emissions.
What Can I Make With Leftover Faux Fur Yarn?
You can make a small stuffed animal, a bookmark, an embellishment for a hat or scarf, pompoms, or tassels.
Is Faux Fur Yarn Itchy?
No, it’s not itchy because it’s made from synthetic materials.
Is Faux Fur Yarn Good For Clothes?
Yes, it’s good for a garment because it’s warm and durable.
Is Faux Fur Yarn Good For Winter?
Yes, it’s good for winter because it’s warm.
Is Faux Fur Yarn Good For Summer?
No, it’s not good for summer because it’s not breathable.
Do Faux Fur Yarns Pill?
No, they don’t pill, however, they may shed.
Can You Dye Faux Fur Yarns?
No, you can’t.
How To Use Faux Fur Yarn
Here is a video tutorial by Fiber Flux on how to knit with faux fur yarn.
The information in this video on tips for knitting with it will be a great help!
Faux Fur Vs Wool
Faux fur is a great alternative to wool if you’re looking for something that’s vegan and has a fluffier texture. Wool is a natural fiber that comes from sheep. It’s biodegradable and eco-friendly, while faux fur isn’t.
How To Stop Faux Fur From Shedding
Here are some tips to stop your faux fur from shedding: use a lint roller, try not to snag the fibers, or use a fabric shaver to remove any loose fibers.
Conclusion
Happy knitting or crocheting! Hope you enjoyed this article. Do you have questions? Please leave them below!
References
- Gebisa, Beyene. “Physical Property of Acrylic Fiber.” Authorea Preprints (2020).
