Yarn fibre
Velvet yarn for crochet
Velvet yarn is a polyester pile yarn with a short, smooth nap and a soft sheen, similar to chenille but flatter. Velvet yarn feels luxurious and drapes well, but it can be slippery and stitches are hard to count. Crocheters choose velvet yarn for blankets, pillows and soft toys.
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What are the pros and cons of velvet yarn for crochet?
Velvet yarn's main strengths are luxurious soft hand; rich sheen; machine washable in most brands; drapes well. The trade-offs are slippery to work; stitches hard to count; can worm if tension is loose; hard to unravel cleanly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Luxurious soft hand | Slippery to work |
| Rich sheen | Stitches hard to count |
| Machine washable in most brands | Can worm if tension is loose |
| Drapes well | Hard to unravel cleanly |
What should you crochet with velvet yarn?
Velvet works best for blankets, pillows, soft toys, baby loveys.
How does velvet 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.
| Fibre | Best for |
|---|---|
| Velvet | Blankets, Pillows, Soft toys |
| Cotton | Dishcloths, Coasters, Market bags |
| Acrylic | Blankets, Beginner practice, Toys |
| Wool | Sweaters, Hats, Mittens |
| Merino | Garments, Baby items, Cowls |
| Bamboo | Summer tops, Drapey shawls, Lightweight garments |
| Chenille | Plush amigurumi, Baby blankets, Chunky throws |
| Blends | Everyday garments, Blankets, Baby items |