Finding the right yarn for your rigid heddle loom can be tricky, too thick, too fine, or just not quite the right fibre. That’s why this collection brings together a thoughtful range of yarns, from classic cottons to soft wools and luxurious silks. Whether you're warping your first project or refining your practice, we've got yarns you'll love working with.
Rigid Heddle Weaving Yarns FAQs
What types of yarn are best for rigid heddle weaving?
The best yarns for rigid heddle weaving are smooth, strong, and have minimal stretch. Cotton, wool (especially superwash), and some silk blends work particularly well. Yarns with a consistent thickness, such as Maurice Brassard Cotton or Ashford Merino, are ideal for maintaining even weaving tension.
Can I use sock yarn for rigid heddle weaving?
Yes, sock yarn can be used, especially if it's plied and has good structure. Options like the Australian Cotton Sock Yarn from Ada Fibres offer a great balance of strength and softness for lightweight woven pieces.
Do I need to match yarn weight to loom type?
While it’s not about the loom specifically, yarn weight should match the reed size (dents per inch) on your rigid heddle loom. This ensures balanced sett and fabric density. Always check your reed and warp recommendations before choosing.
Are the yarns in this collection suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Many options in this collection, such as Maurice Brassard cotton and Ashford DK wool, are beginner-friendly, with predictable behaviour and easy handling on rigid heddle looms.
Are all yarns in this collection loom-safe?
Yes, all yarns included here are carefully selected to be compatible with rigid heddle looms. They're strong enough to handle tension and are sold in sizes suitable for warping or weft.
How do I know which yarn thickness to use?
A general guide is to match the yarn to your reed's dpi (dents per inch). For instance, an 8 dpi reed pairs well with Ne 8/4 cotton. We provide weights and yardage details so you can choose appropriately.
Are any of the yarns made from Australian fibres?
Yes. We proudly include Australian-grown cotton from Ada Fibres and Full Circle Fibres. These yarns offer excellent quality and support local fibre production.
Can I mix different fibres in one project?
Yes, as long as they have similar shrinkage and care requirements. Mixing wool, silk, or cotton can create interesting textures; just be mindful when wet-finishing your project.
What if I need help choosing yarn for a specific project?
We're happy to help! Feel free to contact Thread Collective for personalised advice. We can guide you toward the best yarns based on your loom and project goals.
Do these yarns work for more than just weaving?
Many of them do. While curated for weaving, several yarns, like Malabrigo Merino and Knitting for Olive, are also suitable for knitting and crochet, making them versatile staples for your stash.