Introducing Non Superwash Organic Yarn

We’ve received a lot of questions about non-superwash wool, and I’m here to answer them!

Everyone, wipe off your fiber nerd glasses—we’re about to dig into some knowledge!

Non-Superwash Wool vs. Superwash Wool

The superwash process is a treatment that wool undergoes to make it a little softer and easier to care for over the long term. One of my favorite features? You can toss it in the washer and dryer with little to no consequences.

As a mom who knits for my kids, can you imagine how many tiny socks and sweaters I’d have had to lay flat to dry—only to shoo away children and pets while they dried? Too many.

Another major perk? Superwash wool takes dye exceptionally well, allowing for bold colors and sharp speckles. The only real downside is that garments can stretch more than expected when heavily blocked. But if you know that going in, you can account for it in your project.

What is Superwash Yarn?

The process of ‘Superwash’ is a treatment wool goes through to smooth out the microscopic scales on the fiber hairs. These scales make wool stick to itself and while that can help you make some fun projects, it also shrinks the sweaters your honey accidentally throws in the washer and dryer. Superwashing wool makes yarn great for softer fibers and easier care for garments because they are resistant to felting and shrinkage.

What Makes Non-Superwash Wool Special?

Non-superwash yarn skips this treatment entirely, leaving you with wool in its most natural form.

The non-superwash yarn we’ve chosen for you is a perfect example of pure wool in all its glory. It’s so moisture-resistant that we have to work really hard just to get it thoroughly soaked for even dye application. It just will not stop floating! Honestly, I’ve considered testing it as a life vest.

This yarn is fantastic for temperature regulation, wicking away sweat in warmer weather and trapping heat in cooler temperatures.

Are you already picturing your favorite fall sweater, your coziest hiking socks, or that Outlander-inspired shawl? You know the one.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Non-superwash wool will felt with heat and agitation. (Think: shrunken sweaters straight out of the dryer.) But! You can use this to your advantage for sturdy, extra-cozy hats, slippers, and baskets.
• Non-superwash yarn holds its shape exceptionally well, making it perfect for structured garments.

If you’re still with me, here are some frequently asked questions about our yarn. And remember: HAND WASH YOUR NON-SUPERWASH YARN!

FAQ

Can you mix non-superwash and superwash yarn in a project?
Yes! But keep in mind that superwash yarn doesn’t retain its shape as well as non-superwash, and the care requirements are different.

For projects where size consistency really matters (like sweaters), I wouldn’t recommend mixing the two. But if you want to experiment, craft with your heart!

Will all Bad Sheep Yarn colorways be available in non-superwash?
No. Superwash and non-superwash wool absorb dye differently, so we can’t always recreate our existing colorways exactly as we’d like.

Our non-superwash yarn will be released seasonally, each with its own unique colorways. Our next non-superwash solids release is coming in April 2025—and they are gorgeous!

Will you offer more weights in non-superwash?
We’d love to! But we’re starting with our most popular weights: Fingering, DK, and Worsted.

What does “Organic” mean for wool?
“Organic” means that the fleece has never been treated with chemicals—ever.

From farm to shepherd to mill to our hands, this wool has met strict environmental and ethical standards to be certified organic.

Are your dyes natural?
No, our dyes are not natural or organic. While the fleece itself is organic, our dyeing process is not.

Alex and I are always mindful of making environmentally responsible decisions for Bad Sheep Yarn. While I love the history and beauty of natural dyes, they aren’t practical for our production scale.

That said, we hand-wash every skein with a gentle, scentless soap and make sure that the majority of the dye is exhausted before disposal.

And finally, the biggest question… is this yarn soft?
The answer is in the name: Fine Merino.

While non-superwash wool has a bit more of that natural, woolly feel, Merino sheep have some of the softest fleeces out there. This yarn has been spun to perfection—it’s fluffy, bouncy, and a dream to work with.

Superwash is softer overall, and if you have very sensitive skin, you might notice a slight scratchiness. But trust me—this yarn is five stars, I highly recommend it.

We can’t wait for you to try it! What will you make first? 🧶✨

Shop Non Superwash Here