Wool Pilling and Yarn Twists

Hello and welcome to our blog! We've been hearing from some of our customers that they've been sometimes experiencing pilling with their wool, and we believe it may be due to the yarn twist. So today, we're going to dive into the different types of yarn twists and the pros and cons of each.

Firstly, let's start with the basics. Yarn twist refers to the direction in which the fibres are spun together to create a strand of yarn. There are two main types of twist: S-Twist and Z-Twist.

S-Twist yarns are spun in a clockwise direction, while Z-Twist yarns are spun in an anti-clockwise direction.

So what are the pros and cons of each type of twist?

S-Twist yarns tend to be smoother and less prone to pilling, while Z-Twist yarns are generally stronger and more durable.

However, Z-Twist yarns can sometimes be more prone to pilling due to the fibres being twisted more tightly together.

Now let's talk about some specific brands of yarns and the types of twists they use. For example, Australian brand Patons uses an S-Twist yarn for their wool blend yarns, while Cleckheaton a Z-Twist yarn in some of their wool blends. This twist can make the yarn more elastic, but also more prone to pilling. The Italian brand Filatura di Crosa uses both S-Twist and Z-Twist yarns depending on the fibre blend and desired outcome.

Coming back to the issue of pilling with wool, it's possible that the Z-Twist yarn used in some products may be contributing to this problem. However, it's important to note that pilling can also be caused by a number of other factors, such as friction and the type of fibre used.

To minimise pilling, it's always a good idea to follow care instructions carefully, avoid washing woollen items too frequently, and store them in a cool, dry place. Additionally, choosing a yarn with an S-Twist yarn may help to reduce pilling in the long run.

In conclusion, the type of yarn twist used can have a significant impact on the final product, including its durability and tendency to pill. While Z-Twist yarns are generally stronger, they can sometimes contribute to pilling. Ultimately, it's important to choose a yarn that is suited to your project and take steps to care for your finished item to keep it looking its best.

We hope you found this blog post helpful and informative! If you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to get in touch with us.