Ashford 100% Merino DK (Non-Superwash) Wool - 100g & 1kg
Looking for a dyeable yarn that’s soft, responsive, and made from 100% natural fibre? Ashford’s Merino DK (Non-Superwash) gives you a beautiful blank canvas—ideal for custom colours and projects where softness and stitch definition truly matter. It bulks gently after washing, revealing its full warmth and body.
When you're planning a dye project or want full control over colour and finish, not all undyed yarns are equal. Some feel too processed, too stiff, or just don’t hold colour the way you’d hoped. And if the texture isn’t right, it can leave you feeling hesitant about your final piece.
This Merino DK from Ashford offers a refreshingly honest base. Spun from 100% non-superwash merino with a fine 21–22 micron count, it's soft to the touch yet holds its shape beautifully. Because it’s unbulked, the yarn appears finer before washing or dyeing—but once processed, it blooms into a full, bouncy DK weight that’s a joy to work with. Whether you’re dyeing with botanical colours or simply keeping it natural, this yarn brings confidence to your creative process.
The real reward comes in the making. You’ll feel grounded in the texture, reassured by the fibre’s quality, and proud of the piece you’re shaping. Whether you're crafting for someone else or just for you, it's the kind of yarn that makes the journey as satisfying as the result.
Key Features & Benefits:
- 100% fine merino wool: Soft and breathable with a lovely natural bounce
- Non-superwash and unbulked: Retains structure, ideal for natural dyeing
- Gently blooms: Appears fine, but bulks up after dyeing or washing
- Smooth and springy: Lovely stitch definition and elasticity
Available in two sizes: Choose 100g skeins for small projects or 1kg cones for larger plans
1 x Ashford Merino DK Yarn (100g skein or 1kg cone, depending on selection)
- Fibre Content: 100% Non-Superwash Merino Wool
- Weight/Type: 8 ply / DK
- Micron Count: 21–22 microns
- Unit Sizes: 100g skein or 1kg cone
- Length per Kilo: Approx. 2000m / 2200yds
- Care Instructions: Hand wash only, dry flat
- Finish: Unbulked (will bloom after dyeing or steaming)
- Origin: New Zealand
Non-superwash means the wool has not been chemically treated to prevent felting. It retains its natural scales, which allow the fibers to interlock, making it great for felting projects and providing natural warmth and breathability.
Hand wash gently in cool water with mild wool detergent. Avoid agitation or wringing, as this can cause felting. Lay flat to dry to maintain shape and softness, and avoid excessive heat or tumble drying.
Yes, non-superwash Merino is naturally soft, breathable, and gentle on sensitive skin, making it great for baby garments. However, it requires careful hand washing to prevent shrinking and felting.
Absolutely! Non-superwash wool absorbs dye well, allowing for vibrant, rich colours. Acid dyes work best for even colour saturation, and natural dyes also produce beautiful, earthy tones.
Non-superwash Merino retains its natural woolly texture and warmth, while superwash Merino may feel smoother due to the chemical processing. Some prefer the slightly grippier texture of non-superwash wool, especially for colorwork projects.
Non-superwash Merino maintains its structure well and has better shape retention than superwash wool. However, blocking and proper storage are essential to keep garments looking their best.
Yes! The natural elasticity and texture of non-superwash Merino make it suitable for weaving, particularly for soft and warm woven scarves, blankets, and textured fabrics.
Yes! Non-superwash Merino is an excellent choice for crochet, providing great stitch definition and a soft finish. It works well for warm garments, blankets, and accessories.
Non-superwash Merino wool naturally regulates temperature, working to keep you warm in cold weather and cool in warmer conditions. It wicks moisture away from the body, making it a great year-round fiber choice.