With the hectic season of gift knitting/crocheting/crafting upon us, there’s no better time to revisit the convenience of easy care yarns! What, exactly, classifies a yarn as “easy care”? It’s fairly simple: machine washability (two of the most beautiful words in the English language).

Every hand-knit or crocheted project will likely begin with the same step—fiber selection. Beyond the consideration of factors such as color, sheen, and even drape, you’ll want to think about the recipient of your labor of love. The good news? Whether you’re making a tiny hat for a newborn, a gift for someone with a wool sensitivity, or perhaps crafting for a person who is … shall we say … less careful with their accessories, easy care yarn …