Welcome to Gaia! ::

I'm sort of on the lookout for some nice wool for a pattern I'd like to knit (once all my Christmas knitting is done, of course xp ), and I was wondering if anyone had any favorites that they liked to work with. I'm not familiar with a lot of wool yarns, since I normally work with stuff I can find in the craft stores nearby (which usually is just cheap stuff and nothing special.... and itchy). So, I'd be interested to see what kind of recommendations there'd be... and if anyone could tell me what kind of wool are softest. I don't like itchy things, especially if it's going to be around my face and ears.

Can't tell you names BUT find a yarn shop and go in and fondle the yarn. See what it's made of and that will give you a good start. I suppose. I LOVE going into those stores and looking at all the stuff I can't afford, mrgreen

Patrons
&
Brown Sheep Company

Try those out! =^-^= Before ur cat does.

Alpaca and mohair are good, soft natural fibers. Alpaca is more expensive than mohair, but both are kinda pricy.

Caron brand simply soft is the best yarn (in my opinion) if you can't spend too much. It comes in a variety of colors, it feels GOOD, and its not to expensive. I'm pretty sure you can order it from their website (http://www.caron.com) i've made quite a few things out of it, its a simple yarn. It looks like if you order straight from caron.com they don't charge shipping... hmm... *didn't know that, always buys from micheals*

If you don't want scratchy, but you do want wool, you'll love merino wool. Anything made of merino wool is divine! It's really all I use anymore. If you want a machine washable and dryable wool that doesn't pill too much, I recommend Louet Gems. It's sooo soft and extreamly sturdy. After that I recommend King Filatura Extra. It's not machine washable, but it doesn't pill. Ever! Both are pretty pricey, but you do get what you pay for. And the prices aren't bad if you only need two balls for a hat or mittens or something. If the garment doesn't have to be super sturdy, there are other merinos that don't cost so much. Mission Falls 1824 is very affordable and nice. If you're looking for something SUPER warm, it doesn't get much warmer than Classic Elite Wings. The yarn is over half alpaca (which is about 35% warmer than wool), a quarter silk (which is also known for warmth), and a quarter wool. Not only that, but it has a hollow core which insulates. I can personally vouch for the warmth. I made a panta out of this stuff and my ears have been toasty all winter. Oh, and it's super soft as well. Hope some of that gave you some ideas!