Wool Yarn Recommendations

[lmbjer]

After successfully crocheting my first test soaker in acrylic, I would like to expand into wool yarn. Having always thought most wool to be horrifically scratchy, I am looking for advice on what specific types of wool to purchase. There are so many blends and types, that I want to be sure to purchase something appropriate and soft for a soaker.

Also, could someone recommend brand names or websites where I could purchase these yarns. I really just want simple and soft yarn, none of the beautiful but unfortunately expensive custom dyed yarn, budget is definitely an issue.

Please don't make me rely on Wal-Mart's acrylic yarn selection for my little girl

[mamasthree]

Paton's Classic Merino is usually locally available and not too pricey. It is soft, but like any merinos will pill with normal use.

I love BFL, targhee, any merino--you can find them cheaper undyed (scroll waaaaay down) (just dye them yourself with kool-aid or leave 'em natural!).

Purewool is also very soft (again with the pill thing, though)--there is a co-op running on MDC trading post right now to save $$. 3-ply is sturdier than the single ply.

[iowaorganic]

http://stores.ebay.com/Ewe-Phoria-Ya...QQftidZ2QQtZkm

This is my lys- well she also has a real store and that is where I go. I havn't used the handpainted yet but I think she is much more reasonably priced than most. The yarn is absolutely beautiful and it is an 8 oz hank. Lesli is a doll to work with and she will custom dye anything for you on your choice of yarn.

I guess I have just been using pf, cascade, and lamb's pride. they all have been working great for us.

[flapjack]

www.handpaintedyarn.com

I'm not an expert crocheter, but I love the look of single-ply yarns crocheted up. So I say go for HPY

[gingerstar]

I would encourage you to get your post count up so you can get onto the trading post - we frequently have great co-ops, which get you good prices.

Also, look at Peace Fleece - I love their yarn, esp. for soakers.

[lmbjer]

Thanks!

So as for wool type.....i see 100% wool, superwash wool, merino, etc...

Which strikes the best balance between softness, effectiveness, and affordability?

[flapjack]

I think the tradeoff is between soft and sturdy in this price range: PF is cheap and bombproof, but isn't deliciously soft in the way that the merinos are. So, to an extent it depends on what age the child is that you're knitting for- I'd use a soft single-ply for a newborn or a walking toddler, but not so much for a baby that sits and crawls and is going from bum to knee all day? KWIM?
BFL is spun similarly to PF, but is much softer and strokeable- it's the yarn equivalent of your bestest, oldest, most comfortable pair of jeans. Everyone should try it

[kareybear]

I crochet a couple of wool soakers with 100% Merino Wool. I bought mine at JoAnn Fabrics.
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/b...7/DSC00421.jpg
http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/b...7/DSC00418.jpg
The one on the right was kool aid dyed. I am new at crocheting and they turned out great and very soft. First time kool aid dying. It was fun. I will be doing some more.

[mommyddeville]

Originally Posted by iowaorganic

http://stores.ebay.com/Ewe-Phoria-Ya...QQftidZ2QQtZkm

This is my lys- well she also has a real store and that is where I go. I havn't used the handpainted yet but I think she is much more reasonably priced than most. The yarn is absolutely beautiful and it is an 8 oz hank. Lesli is a doll to work with and she will custom dye anything for you on your choice of yarn.

I guess I have just been using pf, cascade, and lamb's pride. they all have been working great for us.

Wow, she does have great prices on her yarn! When I'm off my yarn diet (we just moved, so no yarn $$), I'll have to buy from her!

[lyttlewon]

Originally Posted by lmbjer

Thanks!

So as for wool type.....i see 100% wool, superwash wool, merino, etc...

Which strikes the best balance between softness, effectiveness, and affordability?

Superwash isn't for soakers it doesn't work right. I really like Three Irish Girls Lindon Merino. It is a little more expensive than some of the other yarns but very soft and resistant to pilling which is perfect for a crawling toddler. I also like Farm Yarn my only complaint is sometimes it is full of straw that you have to pick out.

[iowaorganic]

Originally Posted by mommyddeville

Wow, she does have great prices on her yarn! When I'm off my yarn diet (we just moved, so no yarn $$), I'll have to buy from her!

Yeah- she is cheaper than anyone else I have found and she has super great service too!