Looking for a unique, colorful yarn with a twist? Marled fibers might be the perfect choice for you. I explore what marled 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 Marled Yarn?
Marled yarn is popular because it’s unique, speckled, lightweight, and it creates an interesting mottled effect. The two strands of different colors are slightly twisted and spun together it looks like candy cane. They’re enjoyable to knit with and great for colorful projects. It is an animal/plant/synthetic fiber sold at moderate prices.
It’s available in all sorts of color combinations, usually with two colors.
Where It Comes From
Marled yarn is typically made of two or more strands of different colors that are twisted together. The result is a variegated, tweedy look that’s perfect for everything from sweaters to hats to socks. Marled yarns are a type of fancy yarn.(1)
How It’s Made Into Yarn
Marling is a spinning technique where two or more colors are combined to create a new yarn. This is done by hand or with a machine, and the results are different depending on the method.
How To Wash Marled Yarn
Always check the yarn label for instructions specific to the yarn you’re using. It will depend on the fiber combination. Synthetic marled yarns can be machine washed. I’d recommend hand washing animal fibers unless it’s superwash merino.
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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 projects and things like sweaters, a hat, scarves, shawls, socks, baby clothes, bags, dishcloths, afghans, potholders, home décor items, and accessories.
When you’re combining it with bold solid colors, it creates many fun, interesting patterns! Or for a more muted, sophisticated look, combine it with shades or a pastel color. Some create a striped pattern, which looks great with socks or mittens.
You’re better off using a simple stitch with this yarn, like stockinette, or garter. The pattern gets lost otherwise! Use light colored needles so the stitches are easier to see. It’s a great yarn for yarn bombing, as it draws the eye. If you’re making something for this purpose, be sensible!
Use a swift to check for any knots before winding it. For more information on why you should use a swift see my post here.
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, online brand shops, and hand-dyed yarns from small businesses on Etsy.
If they have a deal on shipping, take advantage of it when you place your order. It often comes in worsted weight yarn, and not so commonly, lace weight yarn.
Here are brands or manufacturers of marled yarns to try: Abbey Road, Premier Yarns, Patons, and Bernat.
What’s The Price Like?
The price of marled yarn ranges depending on the quality, brand, and where you purchase it. Usually the prices are moderate. And readily available unlike plarn yarn which you often make yourself.
FAQS About Marled Yarn
Is Marled Yarn Safe For Babies?
Yes, it’s safe for babies because it’s usually hypoallergenic and made with natural fibers. However, always get OEKO-TEX certified yarns.
Is Marled Yarn Ethical & Eco-Friendly?
It depends on the fiber content, but usually Marled yarns made with natural fibers are biodegradable. Always do your research before buying yarn.
What Can I Make With Leftover Marled Yarn?
You can make anything you want with leftover bits of yarn! Here are ideas to try: wristwarmers, a headband pattern, bracelets or other jewelry, a keychain decoration, a bookmark, coasters, or a small stuffed animal or toy.
Is Marled Yarn Itchy?
No, it’s not itchy because it’s usually made with soft fibers like cotton, wool, or acrylic. However some people have an allergy to wool, so they may find it itchy.
Is Marled Yarn Good For Clothes?
Yes, it’s good for clothes because it’s usually made with natural fibers like cotton or wool. These fibers are breathable and insulating.
Is Marled Yarn Good For Winter?
Yes, it’s good for winter because it’s usually made with natural fibers like wool. These fibers are warm and insulating.
Is Marled Yarn Good For Summer?
Yes, it’s good for summer because it’s usually made with natural fibers like cotton which is breathable and cool.
Do Marled Yarns Pill?
No, they don’t pill.
Can You Dye Marled Yarns?
No, you can’t.
How To Make Marled Yarn
Here’s an excellent video tutorial by The Crochet Crowd on how to make a your own skein of marled yarn.
The information in this video on the process will be a great help!
Conclusion
Happy crocheting or knitting! Hope you enjoyed this article. Do you have questions? Please leave them below!
References
- Goyal, Ashvani. 2019. “Yarn Formation and Recent Developments.” In Fibres to Smart Textiles, 1st Edition, 31–61. Boca Raton : Taylor & Francis, a CRC title, part of the Taylor & Francis imprint, a member of the Taylor & Francis Group, the academic division of T&F Informa, plc, [2020] | Series: Textile Institute professional publications: CRC Press.
