Welcome back to another yarny info on “Know your Yarns”.

Last Monday was about Angora yarns.

Today its Merino.

Also known as the King of Sheep, the Merino is an influential breed of sheep prized for its wool. There are all kinds of merinos – the most famous and well-known are Australian Merinos.

This breed of sheep are regarded as having some of the finest and softest wool of any sheep. They need to be shorn at least once a year because their wool does not stop growing. If the coat is allowed to grow, it can cause heat stress, mobility issues, and blindness (the poor things!)

The benefits and beauty of Merino yarn is in its superior breathability, temperature regulation, moisture control, and anti-bacterial properties. Unlike “traditional” wool, merino is much finer, softer, and, best of all, itch-free for all but those with severe sensitivities or lanolin allergies.

Although they’re extremely soft, Merino yarns by itself are not durable. So if you are using 100% merino for your project, they will have to be handled gently and with great care.

There are merino yarns that are combined with other fibers for more durability and that can be used for daily wear.

Merinos are great yarns for luxurious shawls and sweaters.

Another info : If you see a label that says Superwash Merino, it is merino wool that has been specially treated so that it’s machine washable and may be machine dried. Lion Brand features the Superwash Merino Yarns.

Other Brands are : Malabrigo Yarns / Cascade Yarns / Madelinetosh

That’s pretty much about Merino, I think!