Hi there
I’m looking to start a Wolkig Cowl for my mum.
The pattern suggests this as a suitable yarn:
Manos del Uruguay Fino [30% Silk, 70% Merino Wool; 490yds/450m per 100 g skein]; color: SF415 “Silver Teaset”; 1 skein
Due to allergies I want to avoid wool, could anyone please suggest a suitable alternative? I’d really like it to be available in a multi-colour option.
Thanks for your help!
Dot
Hi Dot,
Have you tried https://yarnsub.com/yarns/manos_del_uruguay/silk_blend_fino. it’s a free site
I’ m afraid that’s the extent of my knowledge!
Someone with more ideas will be along soon
Welcome to KH
Welcome!
Yarnsub is a good suggestion.
Knit Picks Comfy is a cotton acrylic that is nice. It doesn’t seem to come in a multi-color however
https://www.knitpicks.com/yarn/comfy-fingering-yarn/c/5420197
Also there’s Stroll Tonal which has some variation.
https://www.knitpicks.com/yarn/stroll-tweed-tonal-special-reserve/c/5420364
I don’t believe there is enough wool to cause any allergy. I also don’t believe there is such a thing as an allergy to wool; however, you may be allergic to some of the chemicals used in the dyeing process, or the cleaning process. The silk adds a really luxurious touch to this yarn… it will be hard to find a substitute. Silk also has a great drape, which you will want.
My suggestion is that you knit a small swatch, and then wear it next to your skin for a short time to judge any effect. It may be that this yarn will not cause you any difficulty. But you won’t know unless you try it. There may be other yarns that you can use in place, but none will have the same feeling and look as this one. Try several in swatches to find one that comes close. That’s the only way you will know!!
I sympathize completely with your mother’s reaction to wool it is most uncomfortable, I use cotton yarn and there is far more choice now than there was years ago. I have seen super fine category 1 cotton sock yarn which will give a slightly different gauge. Try looking for crochet yarn. The least expensive way to test for an allergic reaction is to take your mother to the store with you to hold the yarn against the inside of her arm for the fastest reaction.
Paddi makes a good point that some people are allergic to dyes but this causes a reaction in all fabrics not just wool.
Thanks all, unfortunately she has not been well so rather than test things I have just opted for the easy option of some 4-ply baby that came up on the site Jo1855 recommended. Very similar length/weight and am quite pleased with how it is shaping up. A compromise on the tonal color which is a shame but at least I know it will keep her snuggly warm.
Thanks for your help and suggestions
Dot