One of the new yarns I have ordered for Fall is Woodland from Classic Elite. Part of their Verde Collection of eco conscious yarns, Woodland is a combination of wool and environmentally-friendly nettles. Each of these fibers takes the dye differently, giving both the neutral and vibrant colors of Woodland a heathered look.
Nettles are a fiber that was used in pre-stone age times to weave cloth. They are a perennial that require low level
s of water and little or no pesticides. Nettle fibers are similar to linen and hemp but produce a softer, silkier fiber. Nettle fiber is naturally resistant to stains, bacteria, mildew, light and insects. Nettles show color well and, when mixed with wool, add lightness, minimize shrinkage and are breathable. My friend Karen knit up a swatch from the samples my rep. left me and it feels great! I can wait to get this new yarn on the shelves!
