Silks for Spring

Silk is an ancient fiber that has been used for more than 8,000 years. Produced by insects spinning cocoons for metamorphosis, the filaments are long and shimmering, creating an elegant, strong fabric with good drape. Here are four yarns to add a little silk to your knitting.

Shibui Knits Twig

Content: 46% linen, 42% recycled silk, 12% wool

Color: Shore

Put-up: 190 yd (174 m)/1¾ oz (50 g)

Recommended Needle Size: Size 4 (3.5 mm)

Care: Handwash

With a crunchy, tweedy hand, Twig is a standout yarn for simple garments that let its distinctive texture take center stage. Try using it for a breezy tee or a casual wrap. www.shibuiknits.com

HiKoo Rylie, distributed by Skacel

Content: 50% baby alpaca, 25% mulberry silk, 25% linen

Color: Kelp

Put-up: 274 yd (250 m)/3½ oz (100 g)

Recommended Needle Size: Size 3–4 (3.25–3.5 mm)

Care: Handwash

What do you get when you combine three exceptionally drapey fibers? A soft yarn perfect for midweight shawls and open-front cardigans. Rylie will keep you warm and stylish on a cool evening. www.skacelknitting.com

Misti Alpaca Tonos Pima Silk

Content: 83% Peruvian Pima cotton, 17% silk

Color: Grapefruit

Put-up: 327 yd (300 m)/3½ oz (100 g)

Recommended Needle Size: Size 4–6 (3.5–4 mm)

Care: Handwash

This DK-weight yarn is ideal for spring garments such as tank tops and lightweight pullovers. Tonos Pima Silk’s hand-dyed colors are rich and complex, and the blend of cotton and silk makes for a cool garment that hangs beautifully. www.mistialpaca.com

Alchemy Yarns of Transformation Silken Straw

Content: 100% silk

Color: Butterscotch

Put-up: 236 yd (216 m)/1½ oz (40 g)

Recommended Needle Size: Size 4 (3.5 mm)

Care: Handwash

Silken Straw is a striking yarn that, when knitted up, looks like raffia. Stripe it with a laceweight yarn for an unusual shawl. Use blunt needles to prevent splitting the delicate ribbon. www.alchemyyarns.com

For more silky goodness, check out these patterns & resources: