As a long time mostly vegan vegetarian, I don’t participate in anything derived from animals, and that includes yarns. In this case, it helps that I also have a skin sensitivity to many natural fibers – but I love to crochet – so when possible, I choose eco-friendly alternatives for more responsible crafting.
I’m a human and I don’t get it right all of the time, but every time I do get it right, it makes a difference, however tiny.
What did I miss? What did I get wrong? Let me know in the comments!
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Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Animal-Based Fibers
For those seeking vegan or plant-based options, several sustainable yarns are available, most you’ve heard of or probably used.
- Organic Cotton: Grown without harmful pesticides and chemicals, organic cotton is durable and washable, and makes it a popular choice for eco-conscious crochet.
- Bamboo: Bamboo yarn is lightweight, breathable, and has a silky texture. It’s a fast-growing, renewable resource, adding to its eco-friendly credentials.
- Hemp: Hemp yarn is strong, durable, and becomes softer with each wash. It’s also naturally resistant to pests, and that reduces the need for pesticides.
Sustainable Synthetic Options
While synthetic fibers like acrylic and polyester are petroleum-based which makes it hard to classify them as sustainable, some brands offer recycled versions and that at a minimum ensures that more of what is produced is used:
- Recycled Polyester: Brands like Loops & Threads offer Eco-Luxe, a super bulky yarn made from 65% recycled polyester, 25% acrylic, and 10% wool.
- Recycled Blends: Berroco Remix Lite and Berroco Remix are DK and worsted weight alternatives made from 30% recycled nylon, 27% recycled cotton, 24% recycled acrylic, 10% recycled silk, and 9% recycled linen.
Reading Yarn Labels for Sustainable Choices
To make informed decisions, it’s essential to understand yarn labels:
- Fiber Content: Look for labels indicating organic or recycled materials.
- Certifications: Certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100 ensure the yarn has been tested for harmful substances. Many Premiere Yarns are certified and they have an entire page on their website to shop from, you’ll find Hobbii has a way to shop from Oeko-Tex yarns as well
- Origin: Yarns labeled as fair trade or ethically sourced often come from suppliers who prioritize environmental sustainability and fair labor practices.
Eco-Friendly Yarn Choices I Love
If you’re looking for specific yarn brands that align with sustainability, here are some of my favorite picks:
- Lion Brand Recycled Yarns: Lion Brand has an entire collection dedicated to sustainable stitching, featuring recycled and eco-friendly fibers. You can explore their full range here: Lion Brand Sustainable Stitching.
- Scrap Yarn Projects: One of the best ways to be sustainable is to use what you already have! I love making fun, colorful projects with scrap yarn that would otherwise end up in the trash. Check out this guide on how to create scrap yarn balls
Choosing sustainable yarns for crochet involves understanding the origins and production methods of the fibers and that becomes easier over time. Whether opting for responsibly sourced animal fibers or plant-based alternatives, being mindful of the materials you use contributes to a more sustainable and ethical crafting practice. Again, I don’t get it right all the time, but getting it right any of the time is better than getting it right none of the time!
