Introducing Salvage: The Sustainable Yarn with a Story

At Knit Picks, we’re always on the lookout for ways to innovate and bring you yarns that not only inspire creativity but also make a positive impact on our planet. We’re thrilled to introduce Salvage, our newest addition to the yarn family. Salvage is a sustainably sourced cotton yarn that redefines traditional cotton by incorporating recycled denim fibers, giving new life to old materials and reducing waste.

A New Chapter for Denim

The journey of Salvage begins with something as simple as an old pair of jeans. Instead of ending up in a landfill, these jeans are collected and transformed through a meticulous process. First, the jeans are stripped of their metal parts—zippers, buttons, and rivets. Then, they are broken down into fibers using specialized machinery. These reclaimed fibers are then spun into fresh yarn, ready to be transformed once again, this time into your next knitting or crochet project.

Unique Texture and Color Variations

One of the standout features of Salvage is its uniquely rustic texture. The incorporation of recycled fibers gives this yarn a distinct character, with each skein carrying subtle variations that tell the story of its past life. As a result, the final composition and color of Salvage may vary slightly from one lot to another, making each project truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re crafting lightweight garments, summer shawls, or breezy accessories, Salvage ensures that your creations will have a unique, artisanal touch.

Eco-Friendly and Versatile

Salvage isn’t just about recycling; it’s about reimagining what cotton yarn can be. This eco-friendly yarn offers a versatile range of colors, all of which are derived from the original denim, giving them a natural, earthy appeal. The yarn’s lightness makes it ideal for warm-weather projects, allowing you to create comfortable garments and accessories that are perfect for summer.

Commitment to Sustainability

We’re proud to offer a yarn that aligns with our commitment to sustainability. The process used to create Salvage is certified under the Textile Exchange’s Recycled Claim Standard (RCS), ensuring that the recycled content is verified and traceable throughout the supply chain. By choosing Salvage, you’re not only embracing creativity but also supporting practices that are better for the environment.

Why Choose Salvage?

  • Sustainable: Made from recycled denim fibers, Salvage helps reduce waste and supports a circular economy.
  • Unique: Each skein features subtle variations in texture and color, making your projects truly one-of-a-kind.
  • Versatile: Ideal for lightweight garments and accessories, Salvage is perfect for warm-weather crafting.

Embrace the beauty of sustainability with Salvage. Elevate your crafting experience with a yarn that has a story to tell—one that you can continue with your own hands. Discover Salvage today and see how recycled fibers can create something entirely new.


16 comments

  1. Annie / September 16, 2024 / Reply

    wow! I am soooo excited about this yarn!
    I love cotton yarn!
    Thank-you Knit Picks!

  2. sheila zumwalt / September 6, 2024 / Reply

    Would you recommend Salvage for socks?

    • Kate / October 17, 2024 / Reply

      Hi Sheila! No, we would not recommend Salvage for socks. It has a pretty rustic texture given that it is made from recycled denim.

  3. Becka / September 6, 2024 / Reply

    Years ago I bought some yarn called second hand cotton from a yarn shop near Lancaster PA. It was billed as recycled cotton. I wonder if this is like it. I did find that it was really twisted and had a tendency to twist back on itself. Does that happen with this yarn. Can this yarn be used to weave with?

    • Kate M / October 17, 2024 / Reply

      Hi Becka! Salvage is an “S twist yarn” so it should not unravel. Yes, it could be used to weave with however, we don’t offer it on cones.

  4. MariAnne / September 6, 2024 / Reply

    Does Salvage feel “soft” and continue to feel soft after washing? I’ve used cotton yarn that feels good before washing but “hardens” and the fabric becomes more dense and firm. Too much work to put into something that is no longer comfortable to wear after it’s been laundered.

  5. CAROL / September 6, 2024 / Reply

    Is it soft and light enough to make socks? Gorgeous colors.

    • Kate / October 17, 2024 / Reply

      Hi Carol! We do not recommend using Salvage for socks. Given that it is made from recycled denim materials, the yarn itself has a fairly rustic texture, which would not make for comfortable socks. It also doesn’t contain nylon so it does not have any stretch to it.

  6. Fig / September 5, 2024 / Reply

    Thank you for creating a new yarn with sustainability in mind! I can’t wait to try it

  7. Andrea / September 5, 2024 / Reply

    What’s the other 5%???

    • Kate / October 17, 2024 / Reply

      The other 5% accounts for any residual threads or fibers that may be processed during the denim reclamation process.

  8. Genevieve / September 5, 2024 / Reply

    Bravo!

  9. Edrie / September 5, 2024 / Reply

    Question: Will Salvage do well for things like wash cloths or hand towels?

    • Kate / October 17, 2024 / Reply

      The recycled cotton fibers are sourced from denim products, so the lack of absorbency would be an issue for a washcloth or hand towel project. We love Shine and Comfy yarns for spa-worthy washcloths and hand towels while Dishie is our choice for kitchen cloths and towels.

  10. Eve / September 5, 2024 / Reply

    Is it good for dishcloths? that is having a rougher texture.

    • Kate / October 17, 2024 / Reply

      We have not tried Salvage for dishcloths. The recycled cotton fibers are sourced from denim products, which are not suited for dishcloth projects. Our Dishie yarns are our #1 go-to for dishcloths and kitchen projects!

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