Is there really a big difference between yarn brands?

[Maeve]

I'm looking around for wool yarn and is there really a difference between the different brands? And if so, what's a good kind to get? For instance, I'm going to make a hat to match a pair of longies I had made for dd, and I'm not sure which brand to get. I've seen Lion Brand, Bartletts, etc.

And same question for other yarns (cottons, etc) that I've seen at the local fabric store. There seems to be so many to choose from, where do I begin?

[twouglyducks]

I'm no expert by any means, but yes there are big differences. Softness is a big one. I don't really like fishermans, but that's b/c I knit tightly and have issues with the smaller yarn looking funky. I've used Plymouth Outback. It's really really soft and nice to work with. I've used 3ply bartletts. I love it. It's not the softest wool, but it's soft when you knit it up. Just not like cashmere soft or anything. LOL It is thick, too so it knits up pretty quickly.

[LuvMy2Kidz]

Yes there is a difference b/c the different brands use wool from different breeds of sheep

[oshunmama]

Huge diff in quality, texture, wear, etc.

I'm a yarn snob. I just can't do the cheap yarn thing anymore. After spinning, I can't stand the feel of the cheaper yarns--they are so overprocessed it's gross. I can't afford to buy all the yarn I want, but I have found that I have become an orphanage for unwanted rich-lady yarn! It's a humble service, but someone hasta do it!

[Maeve]

What kind do you like then?

[LuvMy2Kidz]

Well, it really depends on what I'm making. But I almost always choose merino or a merino blend b/c of the softness.

[Dragonfly]

Originally Posted by oshunmama

I can't afford to buy all the yarn I want, but I have found that I have become an orphanage for unwanted rich-lady yarn! It's a humble service, but someone hasta do it!

How'd you swing that? I want in! :LOL

[oshunmama]

Originally Posted by Dragonfly

How'd you swing that? I want in! :LOL

LOL I attend a local Stitch & Bitch in a very wealthy area. LOL They are my fairy godmothers!

[oshunmama]

I love Galaway for inexpensive, practical things. I love anything by Rowan. I think their yarn is gorgeous. Brown Sheep is a really good yarn. I love Mission Falls wool, it's got a diff spin on it that is very pretty. There are lots of really good yarns. You just have to try them all out! I think handbags are a great way to try out new yarns, because they are small and it doesn't matter if the yarn itches!