Microfiber lint is 40 times thinner than wool, it is much easier to knit patterns from it, and it does not shrink or become rough after washing. For these qualities, the thread is valued by needlewomen and manufacturers. They actively turn to it, even though this is contrary to the fashion for everything natural and natural. This is because the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
What kind of thread is microfiber?
Microfiber is often included in a skein of yarn. There is no need to be afraid of her presence. It is safe: it practically does not cause allergic reactions and has excellent breathability. In addition, it is able to transfer its positive qualities to other components present in the composition. They become more durable and wear-resistant.
Composition and properties
This is an artificial material obtained in laboratory conditions by combining polyester fibers (80% of the composition) and polyamide (20% or less).The first material acts as the core of the villi, the second is the outer layer, but the layer is uneven and has cavities. It follows from this good breathability of microfiber products.
The fibers also perfectly absorb moisture and fat due to their original structure and shape. The villi have microscopic grooves that fill with liquid. However, the presence of such recesses does not affect wear resistance. Vice versa, microfiber is considered one of the most resistant to friction and mechanical damage threads. Due to this, some even allow themselves to wash products made from it in a machine.
Important! Recommended mode: 30 degrees, delicate or hand wash.
Due to the special treatment of the fibers, the need for ironing microfiber items disappears, and knitting becomes easier. The threads fit well together and do not need adjustment.
Pros and cons of yarn
Needlewomen like this yarn because it can be worked with both knitting and crocheting. When using the latter tool, difficulties may arise at first, but after getting used to it and developing skills, all problems are resolved.
Other qualities largely depend on the specific product. Products from reliable manufacturers - for example, Magic, Schachenmayr - behave well both during knitting and when wearing the finished item. The following advantages are observed:
- the threads lie smoothly and beautifully;
- yarn consumption is small;
- During wear, pellets are practically not formed;
- after the first wash, the clothes do not change color;
- the outfit turns out to be light.
Important! When using a crochet hook, the result is a loose but complex knit item. This will look nice on some hats. For example, on a voluminous long beret.
The shortcomings are mainly attributed to the composition and errors in production technology.. Among the “cons” is frizz. Moreover, it often appears after the first wash. The cuffs and the bend of the elbow are more susceptible to the phenomenon. It is not possible to return them to their previous appearance even with the help of specialized chemicals and home remedies.
The second most common defect is stretching. The finished product evenly becomes larger: both in length and width. Also, complaints may arise regarding the softness of the finished item. However, this point cannot be regarded as a clear drawback. The quality depends on what kind of yarn was used.
So, for example, using threads intended for knitting children's wardrobe items, you will definitely end up with soft clothes. If you buy microfiber yarn, which is initially dense and glossy, then it will produce a slightly rough product that holds its shape.
What items are knitted from microfiber?
Due to the thinness of the microfiber fiber, it is easy to knit complex loops and voluminous patterns, which is why threads are often used to create openwork sweaters. The finished item can be of any seasonality, including those designed to be worn in the summer. On a warm day it will not be very hot in it, which is explained by the good breathability of the fibers.
The fiber is also suitable for children's clothes. The yarn is quite safe and tolerates frequent soaking much better than pure wool.. Parents of an active baby who constantly gets dirty will not have to choose between the safety of a wardrobe item and the cost of careful hand washing. However, for the best result, you need to choose threads whose description or name indicates that a particular product can be used to create children's clothing.
Important! The thread does not fade under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, things made from it do not deteriorate due to sunlight, so summer outfits can be safely knitted from microfiber.
Things that can definitely be knitted from microfiber and they will look good:
- cape;
- top;
- poncho;
- headdress (primarily for summer and off-season);
- sweater;
- bolero;
- baby suit;
- vest;
- cardigan;
- scarf;
- swimsuit.
Blankets are also made from microfiber. The cost of such an item will be high, but these costs will pay off over time. The finished product has antistatic properties, practically no pellets form on it (except after prolonged active use), it does not interfere with skin breathing and well absorbs excess moisture from the body. In other words, such a plaid meets hygienic requirements and ensures comfortable healthy sleep.
Dresses and skirts are practically never made from pure microfiber. To create such wardrobe items, yarn is combined with other threads. If this is not done, the hem will stretch. Moreover, the difference between “before” and “after” can be 5–10 cm.
If it stretches, how to knit a swimsuit?