I mentioned on twitter recently that my order of Shelter arrived, and I’m so thrilled with it! I love knowing that it’s American wool, and I am so eager to see what I think of it knitted up.
If you’re thinking about purchasing some and don’t have one of their retail flagships nearby, and therefore can’t pet it before you buy it, I’d like to warn you that it’s not the softest yarn you’ll ever pet. In fact, as I feel a skein right now, it’s a little rougher than what I’m used to knitting with. It’s a very different feel from merino — especially most superwash merino bases.
But. That’s okay because I’m thinking it will soften as I work with it (if you’ve had experience with this yarn, please comment on this!). AND it’s okay because it has a feel to it that… how can I phrase this? …reminds me of American history, our roots. They didn’t have the luxury yarns we have today when they were knitting for soldiers fighting the War for Independence. And someday if the world keeps getting crazier, we may not have access to the rich yarns we’ve been importing from South America, England, etc. So to me, knitting with American yarn, no matter how soft or rough, is important. And I’m going to enjoy it!
I love Brooklyn Tweed’s branding.
Fossil (left) & Stormcloud (right)
Fossil
Fossil’s label
Stormcloud
Stormcloud’s label
100% American Wool
I have to say that in general I love this yarn — for the same reasons you stated. It has a lot of history to it. Just be aware that since it’s woolen spun, you can’t go yanking on it (people keep complaining about breakage on Ravelry and I want to bop them), and it isn’t soft enough for next-to-skin wear. I have a skein of Loft in Sap and I am planning some fabulous mittens with it ;) Or perhaps a lined cowl! It’s so hard to choose the perfect project.
That’s a good point about it being woolen spun. I think this might be the first yarn I’ve bought that was. I will keep that in mind as I work with it, thank you!
What I find really interesting is all the cardigans, scarves, hats & gloves that Jared Flood and his team have designed in Shelter… They’re worn next to the skin, so I’m very curious if the yarn does soften with time or if the models simply don’t mind the roughness. X-D
After seeing the color card for Shelter and Loft, I’m definitely thinking a color work design in Loft is in my future!