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Fiber Care Guide for Your Handmade Yarns & Garments

Why Fiber Care Matters

Caring for Plant Fibers

Including Cotton, Linen, Hemp, Bamboo, and Tencel

Washing

• Machine Wash: Most plant fibers can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water.
• Hand Wash: Recommended for delicate projects or lace patterns.
• Detergent: Use a mild, bleach-free detergent. Avoid fabric softeners, which can coat fibers and reduce absorbency.

Drying

• Best: Lay flat to dry to prevent stretching.
• Alternative: Line drying in the shade is safe for sturdy cotton and linen items, but avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Avoid: High heat tumble drying (it can shrink or weaken fibers).

Storage

• Store in a cool, dry place in breathable cotton bags or bins.
• Use silica gel packets in humid areas to prevent mildew.
• Avoid plastic bags for long-term storage, as they trap moisture.

Special Notes

• Plant fibers may feel stiffer when air-dried; a light steam iron or blocking restores softness and drape.
• Tencel and bamboo may become more fluid with washing, so block carefully to maintain shape.
• Colors may fade if left in direct sunlight. Rotate garments for even wear.

Caring for Animal Fibers

Including Wool, Alpaca, Silk, and Mohair

Washing

• Hand Wash Only (unless labeled “superwash”): Use cool water and a small amount of wool wash or gentle shampoo.
• Avoid agitation to prevent felting.
• Superwash Wool: May be machine washed on a gentle cycle, but always check yarn labels.

Drying

• Always: Lay flat on a clean towel, shaping to the original dimensions.
• Never: Tumble dry, as heat and motion cause shrinkage and felting.
• Keep out of direct sun to preserve color vibrancy.

Storage

• Store in sealed containers or cedar-lined chests to prevent moth damage.
• Add lavender sachets or cedar blocks as natural moth deterrents.
• Keep in a climate-controlled area — high humidity can cause mildew and fiber breakdown.

Special Notes

• Animal fibers benefit from occasional gentle blocking to restore shape.
• Silk and alpaca are especially sensitive to sun exposure — store them away from windows.
• Mohair and angora may shed lightly with wear; a fabric shaver can neaten fuzz.

Tips for Hot, Humid Climates

• Always store yarn and garments in climate-safe containers with moisture control (silica gel, cedar, or lavender).
• Rotate items in storage to allow airflow.
• Avoid leaving projects in cars, attics, or unconditioned spaces where heat and humidity accelerate damage.
• If garments feel damp from humidity, allow them to air out in shade before storage.

Quick Reference: Fiber Care Do’s & Don’ts