Acrylic yarn is popular as it is affordable and durable, but it can sometimes feel stiff or scratchy. Fortunately, there are several methods that you can follow to soften your acrylic yarn.
Wash with fabric softener
Fill a basin or sink with warm water. Add a generous amount of fabric softener to the water. Submerge the acrylic yarn or your finished project in the water. Let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and gently squeeze. Lay flat to dry on a towel.
You can even use hair conditioner
Fill a basin with warm water. Add a good amount of hair conditioner to the water. Mix well and immerse the yarn. Let it soak for about 30 minutes and rinse with cool water. Squeeze out the excess water and lay the yarn flat to dry.
You can machine wash the yarn
Place the acrylic yarn or project in a mesh laundry bag. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water using a mild detergent. Add a fabric softener to the rinse cycle. After washing, you can dry it in the dryer on a low heat setting with a couple of dryer sheets to add extra softness.
If you want to work with yarn, you can buy crochet blanket kits from a range of suppliers. There is a selection of crochet blanket kits from Wool Couture which will enable you to try the craft.
Soak in baking soda
Fill a basin with warm water and add a few tablespoons of baking soda. Soak the yarn for about 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and squeeze out excess water gently. Lay the piece out flat to dry.
The London Evening Standard points out that crocheting your dream wardrobe offers a moment of calm to sit back, relax and knit.
Tumble dry with balls
After washing the yarn or piece, place it in the dryer on a low heat setting. Add a few dryer balls and tumble dry for about 20 minutes until the garment is soft and cosy.
