The Ultimate Guide to Extrafine Merino Wool for Crafters

In the crafting world, whether it’s for knitting or crocheting projects, merino wool yarn is a preferred choice. This luxurious fiber is highly sought after for its softness in addition to durability and versatility. Another name that’s getting the spotlight is extrafine merino wool. The type of premium merino wool sourced from merino sheep is known for their incredibly soft and fine fleece. But what makes extrafine merino wool stand out? Let’s dive into details in the blog. With Symfonie Yarns collection, explore extrafine merino wool and yarn blends. The hand-dyed yarns in semisolid and variegated shades are ideal for all kinds of knitting and projects.

In this blog we will explore:

1. What is Extrafine Merino Wool?
2. How Is Extrafine Merino Wool Different from Regular Merino Wool?
3. Why Is Extrafine Merino Wool the Best Yarn for Knitting and Crochet?
   • Softness
   • Elasticity
   • Temperature Regulation
   • Moisture-Wicking
   • Durability
   • Unique Hand-dyed colors
4. What Can You Make with Extrafine Merino Wool?
5. How to Care for Extrafine Merino Wool?
6. Is Hand-Dyed Extrafine Merino Wool Worth It?

What Is Extrafine Merino Wool?

Extrafine merino wool is a luxurious yarn type, soft as cashmere, strong as wool and available in a wide variety of weights and colors. The term “extrafine” refers to the diameter while merino wool is a premium quality yarn fiber. It typically measures 19.5 microns or less, making it one of the softest natural fibers available.

This ultra-soft texture offers unparalleled softness against the skin, ideal for baby garments, sweaters and even blankets. This exceptional fiber suits even the most sensitive skin types and combines natural temperature regulation with moisture-wicking properties. Plus, it is available in a wide range of yarn weights, fingering, DK, worsted and bulky types. What makes it exceptional is its availability in hand-dyed yarns. The yarn takes dye well and with artisans hand-dyeing in different colors, it offers beautiful semisolid and variegated yarns.

To know more about extrafine merino wool, you will have to understand how it compares to other types of merino wool yarn and why you should choose it for your next project.

How is Extrafine Merino Wool Different from Regular Merino Wool?

Both extrafine and regular merino wool yarn come from the same breed of merino sheep and are favored by yarn crafters. To know more, refer to our guide on merino wool: everything you need to know. They share fine and soft fleece in common, however, the key difference lies in the fiber’s diameter. Generally, regular merino wool has a fiber thickness ranging from 19 to 24 microns, whereas extrafine merino wool is significantly finer, ranging from 19.5 microns and under. This finer fiber results in a smoother, softer, and more comfortable yarn. Knitters and crocheters prefer the extrafine variety as it suits even the most sensitive skin types.

Why is Extrafine Merino Wool the Best Yarn for Knitting and Crochet?

Ask any knitter or crocheter, there’s a general opinion that extrafine merino wool is considered the best yarn for knitting and crochet projects. Why so? Let’s take a look:

1. Softness – Unlike natural wools that are generally coarser, extrafine merino is incredibly gentle on the skin, making it perfect for baby clothes, scarves, and sweaters.
2. Elasticity – This fiber has a natural elasticity that helps garments maintain their shape and structure over time. This makes the yarn fun to knit with regardless of whether you are starting out or have many years of experience.
3. Temperature Regulation – Merino wool yarn is known for its breathability, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer.
4. Moisture-Wicking – It absorbs moisture and dries quickly, preventing discomfort from sweat or dampness.
5. Durability – Despite its softness, extrafine merino wool is strong and resistant to pilling.
6. Unique Hand-dyed colors - The fiber absorbs dye beautifully, making it a top choice for hand-dyed yarn creations.

What Can You Make with Extrafine Merino Wool?

Extrafine merino wool is versatile, you can make anything with your knitting needles and crochet hooks. However, given its premium fiber it is best suited for:

1. Sweaters and cardigans – Be it for a baby or an adult, for winter, summer or transitional weather, garments made with this yarn suit every type of skin as it is less likely to cause itchiness, irritation and discomfort. Choose a DK weight yarn such as Viva for all types of sweaters and cardigans for all seasons. For winter coziness, Bella is a better choice.

2. Baby clothing – The gentle texture ensures comfort for delicate skin. Viva’s DK yarn is suitable for babies.

3. Scarves, shawls, and wraps – The softness and warmth make these accessories extra cozy.

4. Hats and gloves – Provide warmth without bulk.

How to Care for Extrafine Merino Wool?

Extrafine merino wool is surprisingly easy to care for. Refer to the yarn label for specific instructions. However, Symfonie Yarns extrafine merino wool yarns of the Viva and Bella range are machine washable.

Is Hand-Dyed Extrafine Merino Wool Worth It?

Yes, hand-dyed yarns add a unique touch to any project, offering one-of-a-kind color variations. The soft yarn takes dye exceptionally well, resulting in vibrant hues and subtle color shifts that enhance any knitting or crochet project. If you love working with visually stunning, artistically crafted yarn, investing in hand-dyed extrafine merino wool is absolutely worth it.

So, are you ready to experience the beauty of extrafine merino wool for yourself? Explore the exquisite range at Symfonie Yarns and bring your next masterpiece to life! The four exclusive ranges have merino wool as a basic ingredient and are OEKO-TEX® certified. Viva and Bella offer extrafine merino wool while Terra offers a merino-polyamide blend and Luna offers a luxurious merino-silk yarn blend. Explore the hand-dyed yarns in semisolid and variegated colors for all your knitting and crochet projects.

To know more about extrafine merino wool and get it for your knitting and crochet projects, first read:

https://www.symfonieyarns.com/merino-wool-everything-you-need-to-know

https://www.symfonieyarns.com/ultimate-guide-to-merino-wool-natures-luxurious-fiber

https://www.symfonieyarns.com/how-to-care-for-your-hand-dyed-yarn-projects