While it's always useful year-round, cotton's true time to shine is in the warmer seasons. This marvelous fiber is no stranger to knitting, but cotton does behave a little differently than other commonly used fibers. Don't let that scare you, though! Cotton is more versatile than you might think. Whether you're looking to make machine washable kid's clothing, sturdy home decor, or delicate lace shawls, below are some great projects and tips for working with this wonderful plant-based fiber:
• Cotton has very little elasticity. That means the yarn doesn't stretch or bounce back the way wool or other fibers might. This characteristic is a little less apparent in cotton blend yarns, especially when there is a good percentage of wool or synthetic fiber in the mix.
• Unmercerized cotton is very absorbent. Combined with its inelasticity, this means that cotton knits can sag quite a bit when wet. This sagging can also occur in larger pieces even when they aren't wet, as the weight of the fabric can weigh itself down. We suggest knitting at a snug gauge to keep things in place; you can also battle the sag by choosing firmer stitch patterns that don't allow for much stretch. Linen stitch, moss stitch, and basketweave stitches are excellent options; ribbing is also often used in cotton projects.
• Cotton yarn is generally machine washable and dryable - however if you want a really exact fit you should try a swatch first to test for shrinkage. Be sure to measure your swatch before you finish it, and then wash/finish it the same way you will your finished piece. Just like a new pair of jeans, a newly knit cotton garment will often shrink a little in the first wash. Also just like new jeans, these cotton knits will soften and wear in the most comfortable, durable way.
• Also like those favorite jeans, dyed cotton colors will fade over time, giving it that soft, beachy look. If you're using high contrast colors next to each other, be sure to swatch and test for colorfastness. Mercerized cottons have a shinier surface so colors tend to be more vibrant, while unmercerized cottons have a more matte finish and will tend to fade a bit faster.
• Cotton can be slippery! For newer knitters, we suggest you use bamboo needles.
Although it can be a little bit different to work with if you are used to wool or synthetic fibers, cotton is a wonderful option. With a little understanding of the qualities of this versatile, affordable fiber, you can create pieces that will wear beautifully and last forever.
