Yarn Matters: Choosing the Right Fiber for Your Handmade Treasures

When you shop handmade, you’re not just buying a finished product — you’re bringing home a package of intention, care and craft.

Not all yarns are created equal — and that’s the beauty of it! Different fibers offer different textures, durability, drape and care needs. Here's a peek into the most common types I use in my creations, how they shape the final piece and how you can keep them looking their best when you bring them home.

🧶 Acrylic Yarn

What it is: A synthetic fiber that’s affordable, soft, and versatile.

Best for: Everyday use, baby blankets, lightweight throws.

Examples from my shop:

• Color Pop Baby Blanket – made with soft, breathable acrylic yarn that’s lightweight yet cozy.

• Rosy Cloud Baby Blanket – playful stripes with a gentle, snuggly texture perfect for tiny humans.
  

Care Tips:
✔ Machine washable and dryable (woo hoo!)
✔ Use a gentle cycle with cool water
✔ Tumble dry low or air dry for best longevity
✔ Do NOT iron

🧵 Cotton Yarn

What it is: A natural, breathable fiber that feels crisp and clean.

Best for: Totes, market bags, dishcloths and summer wraps or shawls.

Examples from my shop:

• The Clementine Tote – made from 100% cotton in a gorgeous palette of rust, turquoise, gold and cream.

• Greek Isles Tote – soft but sturdy, with that classic cotton texture that just gets better with use.

Care Tips:
✔ Hand wash or machine wash on cold
✔ Reshape while damp
✔ Air dry flat to prevent stretching

🧸 Chunky Yarns

What it is: Can be a variety of fibers — wool, acrylic, polyester, nylon, etc. — but create a thicker weight for cozy textures.

Best for: Throws, lapghans, textured pieces.

Examples from my shop:

• Blush & Bobbles Blanket – this one’s a fan favorite for texture lovers. It’s made with a chunky blend that’s both elegant and squishable.

• Sunset Breeze Throw – a lapghan bursting with color and made from soft, plush yarn blends for ultimate lounging.
  

Care Tips:
✔ Spot clean or hand wash recommended
✔ If machine washing, use a laundry bag and cold water on a gentle cycle
✔ Lay flat to dry to keep that chunky shape intact
✔ If made from a synthetic fiber, do NOT iron

A Note on Sustainability & Softness

While I work primarily with acrylic and cotton (they're budget-friendly, long-lasting, and gentle on sensitive skin), I’m always on the lookout for ethically sourced yarns and recycled blends. When you support Beets & Stitches, you’re supporting small-batch, handmade joy that’s crafted with intention from the very first loop.