It’s sexy to be eco-friendly, and with so many great options, it’s easier than ever! If you’re not sure how you can be eco-friendly while enjoying your favorite hobbies, read on. The easiest way to be environmentally conscious is to look at the products you buy. Look for products that are made from renewable resources, are produced without using chemicals, or divert elements from landfills. Here is a list of 10 threads that do just that.
1. EcoSoft Alpaca/Llama yarn: Incredibly soft, this yarn is made from 80% llama fleece and 20% alpaca fleece. It is naturally hypoallergenic and does not shed. Best of all, it’s machine washable on the gentle cycle with cold water.
2. Bamboo Yarn: This yarn is made from 100% bamboo. Bamboo is a wonderful renewable resource, as it can grow at a rate of up to three to four feet per day, depending on the climate in which it is grown. Bamboo yarn comes in 16 different colors and has a silky smooth feel.
3. Corn thread: One of the newer yarns on the market, it is made from corn fibers. This produces a yarn that has a flat but wide strand. It can also go in both the washer and dryer, making it very easy to care for.
4. 100% Hemp: This yarn also comes from a renewable resource, one that is at the top of the list, as hemp produces more fiber, oil, and protein than any other plant. Hemp fibers are also very strong, which will help your knit pieces last even longer.
5. Recycled Silk Sari Thread From Nepal: Save It is made in Nepal with the scraps of silk fabric left over from the saree-making process. This not only creates more jobs for local women, but also prevents silk scrapings from being dumped in a landfill.
6. 100% Organic Cotton: Made from 100% organically grown cotton without the use of agricultural chemicals. Natural dyes are used to color the chunky yarn that is perfect for use in figure eight knits.
7. Organic Marine Thread: It is made of 100% certified organic wool. No harsh chemicals are used to process the wool. Soft and durable wash after wash.
8. Recycled Sarong Yarn: Workers take recycled Balinese sarongs and hand-spun them. Proceeds from all sales are used to provide healthcare, education and housing for families in Nepal and Indonesia. How good is that?
9. SeaSilk Thread: You guessed it: This thread is made in part from algae. About 30% of the yarn is made of seaweed fiber and the remaining 70% is made of silk. It is hand-dyed in rich, vibrant colors that make it perfect for bold weaves.
10. Soybean Silk Yarn: It is made from soy proteins that are spun into yarn. Since it is made from soybeans, this yarn is another one that comes from a renewable resource. It has a silky texture, is soft and best of all, it keeps you warm.