Organic Yarns for Earth Day

Each April as spring starts to spread across much of North America, we remember how much we love an abundance of flora and foliage. It’s no wonder that Earth Day is in April. It’s the perfect time to plant trees, start gardens, and reflect on how we can make a positive impact on the planet.

As fiber lovers, we can help the Earth in small ways by learning about and using organic yarns in our projects. The Global Organic Textile Standard sets requirements for what it takes to be certified as an organic yarn. The site is a great resource for education. When it comes to project ideas, check out the five beautiful pieces below.

Organic Yarns for Organic Projects

Quince & Co Kestrel

Quince & Co’s Kestrel yarn is 100% organic linen, spun in Italy. It isn’t your standard plied yarn though. It’s spun into a flat ribbon that adds interesting structure to the projects it’s used in. For knitters, it’s beautiful in projects like Jen Hagan’s Linen Rib Tank. With 28 colors to choose from, you’re sure to find one to match your personal palette.

Blue Sky Fibers Organic Cotton

This ultra-smooth and buttery organic cotton from Blue Sky Fibers makes for a fantastic summer sweater when used in the Ribbons and Lace Cardigan. It’s available in seven earthy hues, from birch and glacier to zinc and gardenia. You can knit this cardigan with or without the tie at the waist to suit your personal preference. For crocheters, the Seashell Tote uses just three skeins to make a great eco-friendly bag.

Maurice Brassard 8/2 Cotolin Organic

Jennifer Miller Comstock designed the Lotus Lace Kerchief using Maurice Brassard 8/2 Cotolin Organic. The tube put-up is a generous 1680 yards, giving you more than enough to make this kerchief for yourself and matching ones for friends. This easy lace pattern is a great way to get started knitting lace if you’ve never tried it before!

Knit Picks Simply Cotton Organic Worsted

Simply Cotton, an organic worsted-weight yarn from Knit Picks, is the perfect yarn for a project you want to customize. It’s completely natural and processed without bleach or dye. Indigo dye transforms the Shibori Pillow by Maria O’Keefe and is a lovely way to add a custom touch to your home décor.

Related: Before You Try Dyeing Indigo, Read This!

Did your favorite organic yarn make our list? If not, please share in the comments below. We love learning about new yarns!

—Kerry Bogert
Content Manager, Yarn

Find great projects using organic yarns with these patterns from Interweave!