Using sustainable yarn is a great way to help the planet while enjoying your favorite crafts. Many yarn brands now focus on eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled fibers, and responsibly sourced wool.

These options reduce waste, use fewer chemicals, and support ethical production. If you want to switch to sustainable yarn, there are many great brands to choose from.

Some use recycled materials, while others focus on organic and fair-trade fibers. No matter your project, you can find a yarn that fits your needs and helps the environment.  

This blog will list some of the best sustainable yarn brands. These companies make high-quality yarn while caring for the planet.

From soft cotton to warm wool, there’s an option for everyone.

Why Choose Sustainable Yarn?

Many traditional yarns are made from synthetic materials like acrylic and polyester, which are derived from plastic. These yarns don’t biodegrade and release microplastics into the environment every time they are washed.

Other yarns, like conventionally grown cotton, require water and pesticides, harming ecosystems and farmers. Sustainable yarn offers a better alternative.

1. Reduces Environmental Impact

Eco-friendly yarns use organic or recycled materials, cutting down on waste and pollution. Some brands repurpose textile scraps or old fabrics to create new yarn, preventing them from ending up in landfills.

2. Safer for People and Animals

Many sustainable yarn brands focus on ethical production. This means fair wages and safe working conditions for workers. Some also ensure animal welfare by sourcing wool from farms that do not practice harmful methods like mulesing.

3. Free from Harmful Chemicals

Regular yarns often contain toxic dyes, pesticides, or synthetic treatments. Sustainable yarns are usually dyed with plant-based or low-impact dyes, making them safer for you and the environment.

4. Higher Quality and Durability

Eco-friendly yarns are often stronger and softer than mass-produced synthetic yarns. They may cost more, but they last longer, reducing the need to replace them frequently.

What to Look for in Sustainable Yarn

Not all yarns labeled “eco-friendly” are truly sustainable. How to identify the best options:

Organic and Natural Fibers

Look for yarn made from organic cotton, bamboo, wool, hemp, or other natural fibers. These materials break down naturally and don’t leave microplastics behind. Certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) ensure the fiber is truly organic.

Recycled and Upcycled Fibers

Some brands create yarn from old clothing, textile scraps, or even plastic bottles. This helps reduce waste and gives new life to discarded materials.

Ethical and Fair Trade Sourcing

Sustainable yarn brands often work with small farms or co-ops that pay fair wages and ensure good working conditions. Fair Trade certification is a good sign that workers are treated ethically.

Low-impact or Natural Dyes

Synthetic dyes can contain harmful chemicals that pollute water. Look for brands that use natural plant-based dyes or low-impact alternatives that use less water and energy.

Sustainable Packaging

Even the best eco-friendly yarn loses its impact if it comes wrapped in plastic. Look for brands that use biodegradable, recycled, or minimal packaging.

Best Sustainable Yarn Brands

1. Darn Good Yarn

Darn Good Yarn is one of the pioneers of sustainable crafting. They focus on repurposing textile waste into beautiful yarn while supporting artisans in India and Nepal.

What Makes It Sustainable?

• Uses recycled sari silk, cotton, and banana fiber yarns.
• Supports women artisans with fair wages.
• Encourages zero waste by upcycling textile scraps.

Best For

• Colorful, unique yarns made from sari silk.
• Soft and strong cotton yarn for knitting and crochet.
• Budget-friendly sustainable yarn options.

Specifications

• Material:100% Recycled Silk
• Weight:100 grams
• Length:Approximately 80 yards (73 meters)
• Gauge:Varies; suitable for 5.5 to 8 mm needles
• Care:Hand wash in cold water; lay flat to dry
• Average Price: $10–$30 per skein

2. Hoooked

Hoooked is a well-known brand that specializes in recycled cotton yarn. Their products are soft, durable, and perfect for crochet, knitting, and macramé projects.

What Makes It Sustainable?

• Made from 100% recycled textile waste
• Uses eco-friendly dyes
• Comes in plastic-free packaging

Best For

• Cotton yarn with a soft feel
• Large projects like blankets and bags
• Crafters who want a budget-friendly, eco-friendly option

Specifications

• Material:85% Recycled Cotton, 15% Other Recycled Fibers
• Weight:200 grams
• Length:Approximately 164 yards (150 meters)
• Gauge:10 stitches per 4 inches on 4-6 mm needles
• Care:Machine washable; lay flat to dry
• Average Price: $7–$25 per skein

3. Wool and the Gang

Wool and the Gang offers a mix of sustainable wool, organic cotton, and plant-based yarns. They focus on ethical production and work with responsibly sourced fibers.

What Makes It Sustainable?

• Offers Tencel, hemp, and bamboo yarns
• Sources mulesing-free wool
• Uses low-impact dyes

Best For

• Trendy yarn colors and textures
• Biodegradable and plant-based yarn options
• Modern knitting and crochet projects

Specifications

• Material: 100% Wool
• Weight: Approx 100gr / 87 yd / 80m 
• Length:Approximately 103 yards (95 meters)
• Gauge:15 stitches and 20 rows per 4 inches on 8 mm needles
• Care:Hand wash cold; lay flat to dry
• Average Price: $10–$40 per skein

4. We Are Knitters

This brand is committed to organic and natural fibers. They offer high-quality wool, cotton, and alpaca yarns with sustainable packaging.

What Makes It Sustainable?

• Organic wool and cotton with no harmful chemicals
• Biodegradable and plastic-free packaging
• Supports ethical farming practices

Best For

• Soft, natural fiber yarns
• High-quality wool for warm garments
• Eco-conscious knitters looking for premium yarn

Specifications

• Material:95% Recycled Wool, 5% Recycled Fibers
• Weight:100 grams
• Length:Approximately 109 yards (100 meters)
• Gauge:12 stitches and 16 rows per 4 inches on 8 mm needles
• Care:Hand wash; lay flat to dry
• Average Price: $15–$50 per skein

5. GANXXET

GANXXET offers 100% recycled cotton yarn and cords in a variety of colors and textures.

What Makes It Sustainable?

• Certified by Global Recycled Standard (GRS)
• Uses zero-waste production methods
• Offers natural, undyed options

Best For

• Macramé, weaving, and crochet projects
• Soft, strong cotton yarn in neutral colors
• DIY home decor projects

Specifications

• Material: 100% recycled cotton
• Weight:Varies; typically around 250 grams
• Length:Approximately 109 yards
• Gauge:Varies based on project; suitable for macramé and weaving
• Care:Hand wash recommended; lay flat to dry
• Average Price: $7.95–$25 per skein

6. Lion Brand Yarn

Lion Brand offers sustainable yarns like Botanic Yarn, made from 100% bamboo lyocell, a soft and strong fiber.

What Makes It Sustainable?

• Bamboo lyocell is made without toxic chemicals
• Breathable, durable, and eco-friendly
• Low-impact dyeing process

Best For

• Summer garments and lightweight knits
• Affordable, eco-friendly yarn options

Specifications

• Material:100% Rayon from Bamboo
• Weight: 100 grams (10 ounces)
• Length: 241 yards (220 meters)
• Gauge:16 stitches and 22 rows per 4 inches on 5 mm needles
• Care: Lay Flat to Dry, Machine Wash
• Average Price: $5.99–$12 per skein

7. Fillory Yarn

Fillory Yarn offers a selection of sustainable and eco-friendly yarns, including recycled and organic options.

What Makes It Sustainable?

• Features a variety of ethical yarn brands
• Organic and pesticide-free fibers
• Wide selection for different projects

Best For

• Knitters and crocheters looking for many eco-friendly options
• High-quality, sustainable yarn at different price points

Specifications

• Material: 100% Organic Cotton
• Weight: Sport
• Length:194 yards (177 meters) / 85 grams
• Gauge:18 stitches per 4 inches on US 6 (4mm) needles
• Care:Machine washable; lay flat to dry
• Average Price: $11.90–$17 per skein

Other Sustainable Yarn Materials

If you’re looking for more sustainable options, consider these materials:

• Bamboo Yarn: Grows quickly without pesticides, biodegradable.
• Hemp Yarn: Durable, needs little water to grow.
• Alpaca Wool: Soft, warm, naturally hypoallergenic.
• Tencel (Lyocell): Made from wood pulp, biodegradable.
• Recycled Polyester: Made from plastic bottles, it reduces landfill waste.

Best Ways to Maintain Sustainable Yarn

Taking care of sustainable yarn properly extends its life and keeps it from shedding fibers into the environment.

1. Washing Your Yarn Projects

• Hand wash in cold water to prevent shrinkage or damage.
• Use mild, eco-friendly detergents to protect the fibers.
• Avoid fabric softeners, as they can coat natural fibers and reduce their breathability.

2. Drying Your Yarn Projects

• Lay flat to dry instead of using a dryer, which can cause fibers to break down.
• Avoid hanging wet yarn projects, as this can stretch them out.

3. Storing Your Yarn

• Keep yarn in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or mildew.
• Store wool yarn in sealed containers or bags to keep moths away.
• Label your yarns to keep track of fiber types and avoid mixing synthetic and natural fibers.

4. Reducing Waste

• Save leftover yarn scraps for small projects or stuffing pillows.
• Reuse yarn from old projects instead of throwing it away.
• Donate extra yarn to schools, community centers, or crafting groups.

Conclusion

Choosing sustainable yarn is a great way to enjoy crafting while helping the planet. Many brands now offer eco-friendly options made from organic, recycled, or responsibly sourced materials.

These yarns are softer, stronger, and free from harmful chemicals. They also support ethical labor practices and reduce waste.  

Switching to sustainable yarn does not mean giving up quality or variety. There are many choices, from budget-friendly cotton yarns to high-end wool blends.

Taking care of sustainable yarn is also key. Washing gently, storing it properly, and reusing scraps can make your projects last longer. Small habits like these help reduce waste and make crafting even more meaningful.  

Next time you start a new project, consider using sustainable yarn. It’s a simple choice that makes a big difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is recycled yarn as durable as new yarn?

Yes, recycled yarn can be just as durable as new yarn, depending on how it’s processed. Some brands blend recycled fibers with natural ones to improve strength and softness.

Does sustainable yarn come in different colors?

Yes, many brands offer naturally dyed or low-impact dyed yarns in a wide range of colors. Some brands, like Darn Good Yarn, even create vibrant yarn from recycled fabric.

Is sustainable yarn more expensive?

Sustainable yarn can sometimes be more expensive than synthetic options, but it lasts longer and has a lower environmental impact. Many budget-friendly brands, like Lion Brand and GANXXET, offer affordable eco-friendly yarn options.