Yarn fibre

Bamboo yarn for crochet

Bamboo yarn is a regenerated cellulose fiber, often labelled bamboo viscose, with a silky feel, glossy sheen and fluid drape. Bamboo yarn is cool to wear and absorbent but has little elasticity. Crocheters choose bamboo or bamboo blends for summer tops, drapey shawls and lightweight garments that should hang softly.

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Bamboo yarn and a crochet swatch

What are the pros and cons of bamboo yarn for crochet?

Bamboo yarn's main strengths are silky and soft; beautiful drape and sheen; cool to wear; absorbent. The trade-offs are slippery to work; splits easily; stretches and grows with wear; little elasticity.

Bamboo yarn: pros and cons
ProsCons
Silky and softSlippery to work
Beautiful drape and sheenSplits easily
Cool to wearStretches and grows with wear
AbsorbentLittle elasticity

What should you crochet with bamboo yarn?

Bamboo works best for summer tops, drapey shawls, lightweight garments, baby items.

How does bamboo compare with other yarn fibres?

Each fibre suits different projects. The table below lists what each is best for so you can pick a substitute.

Yarn fibres at a glance
FibreBest for
BambooSummer tops, Drapey shawls, Lightweight garments
CottonDishcloths, Coasters, Market bags
AcrylicBlankets, Beginner practice, Toys
WoolSweaters, Hats, Mittens
MerinoGarments, Baby items, Cowls
ChenillePlush amigurumi, Baby blankets, Chunky throws
VelvetBlankets, Pillows, Soft toys
BlendsEveryday garments, Blankets, Baby items