6 Mohair Alternatives!

Welcome to the Wool Needles Hands Knitting Midweek Ramble. This is a place for me to ramble about other knitting//fiber//craft-related topics that just don't make it onto the knitting podcast episodes (usually for the sake of brevity).
In today's episode I'm sharing some alternatives to mohair as well as some more budget-friendly Kid Mohair/Silk options.
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[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Hi everyone! In today's video I'm exploring some alternatives for achieving that sought-after mohair "halo" and providing a few options for more budget-friendly mohair yarn. I'm putting a lot of info into this one while maintaining my 30 minute time cap. If at times it seems fast, feel free to slow it down using the speed feature at the bottom of the screen (the little cogwheel icon). Otherwise enjoy and thank you for watching! #knitting #knittingpodcast

[@maxx6050]

Very informative, thanks.

[@catherinemccurdy7518]

At this time of inflation, war, heating and food cost, criticism about yarn choice is unconscionable. When my late husband was ill I couldn’t afford to buy wool let alone mohair. I was his full time caregiver. The closet I came to wool was Wool Ease, and was grateful for that. Any yarn that I could afford gave me hours of relaxation at doctors appointments and hospital visits. Even today, being retired and living on Social Security, I buy what I can afford. And I’m endlessly grateful to be able to have something to knit with at the end of the day. Thank you for being so understanding.

[@viktoriaschmied6627]

If its accessible without bigger shipping costs you could look into drops yarns? They are pretty affordable and they also have a nice mohair, the alpaca is also extremely floofy when worked up😊 Edit: if they ship to yours Ritohobby is an online store from Denmark that sells them depending on if they are on sale or not as cheap as ~3 euros for 50g for the pure alpaca. I haven't checked the mohair as I don't use them but they do have drops also regularly on sale. Around December I bought their Karisma wool for as little as 1.50 for a ball

[@jvnd2785]

While I appreciate what you said, consider this: Acrylic is a known carcinogen. The key ingredient of acrylic fibre is acrylonitrile, (also called vinyl cyanide). It is a carcinogen (brain, lung and bowel cancers) and a mutagen, targeting the central nervous system. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, acrylonitrile enters our bodies through skin absorption, as well as inhalation and ingestion. Acrylic yarns and fabrics have dimethylformamide in them, which the CDC says, after interacting directly with skin “can cause liver damage and other adverse health effects. These effects have caused the people who manufacture acrylic fabrics to have to wear protective clothing just to touch the clothing they're making. Babies and children are especially vulnerable and clothing them in acrylic is directly linked to severe hormonal disruption, lung issues (the spike in asthma and COPS in the past 50 years is linked to the boom in wearing acrylic, polyester and nylon clothing), brain fog and even brain damage, tumours and lesions, chronic fatigue syndrome, long-term skin problems...the list goes on and on. So it's not about being a "yarn snob"- it's being responsible and realising that what you save on a ball of yarn, you will eventually pay a hundredfold with your own health. I don't know about you, but I'd rather spend a couple of hundreds on the best quality natural fibre yarn possible than cause myself and/or others serious health problems. And if somebody cannot afford it? It's better go without that extra sweater or hat than to live with a serious health problem.

[@sueking3915]

Im happy for you that you can afford a couple of hundred on yarn. A lot of us can't because of tight budget. Meaning bought clothing also contains acrylic. Should we walk naked to save you from serious health problems?

[@WildeBookGarden]

Tayler I LOVE what you said about using acrylic not being something to be embarrassed about! ❤️ I feel like “don’t be a yarn snob” would be a prime tshirt or mug 😂

[@jvnd2785]

Using acrylic is not about being embarrassed about. It's not about being a "yarn snob" either. Acrylic is known carcinogen. The key ingredient of acrylic fibre is acrylonitrile, (also called vinyl cyanide). It is a carcinogen (brain, lung and bowel cancers) and a mutagen, targeting the central nervous system. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, acrylonitrile enters our bodies through skin absorption, as well as inhalation and ingestion. Acrylic yarns and fabrics have dimethylformamide in them, which the CDC says, after interacting directly with skin “can cause liver damage and other adverse health effects. These effects have caused the people who manufacture acrylic fabrics to have to wear protective clothing just to touch the clothing they're making. Babies and children are especially vulnerable and dressing them in acrylic is directly linked to severe hormonal disruption, lung issues (the spike in asthma and COPS in the past 50 years is linked to the boom in wearing acrylic, polyester and nylon clothing), brain fog and even brain damage, tumours and lesions, chronic fatigue syndrome, long-term skin problems...the list goes on and on. So it's not about being a "yarn snob"- it's being responsible and realising that what you save on a ball of yarn, you will eventually pay a hundredfold with your own health. I don't know about you, but I'd rather spend a couple of hundreds on the best quality natural fibre yarn possible than cause myself and/or others serious health problems.

[@nataliestanchevski4628]

Since I have 3 cats all of my clothes already have a halo but I appreciate all the options you discussed.

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Lol! And that halo comes with a lot of love and snuggles so win win. ❤️❤️

[@missymom53525]

Lol dog hair also works well

[@alliecravulz]

Haha!

[@Kpup]

I love your disclaimer about synthetic fibers! There is a place for everybody in this community! - I'm also really impressed with that Red Heart Brushed yarn!

[@jvnd2785]

While I appreciate what you said, consider this: Acrylic is a known carcinogen. The key ingredient of acrylic fibre is acrylonitrile, (also called vinyl cyanide). It is a carcinogen (brain, lung and bowel cancers) and a mutagen, targeting the central nervous system. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, acrylonitrile enters our bodies through skin absorption, as well as inhalation and ingestion. Acrylic yarns and fabrics have dimethylformamide in them, which the CDC says, after interacting directly with skin “can cause liver damage and other adverse health effects. These effects have caused the people who manufacture acrylic fabrics to have to wear protective clothing just to touch the clothing they're making. Babies and children are especially vulnerable and clothing them in acrylic is directly linked to severe hormonal disruption, lung issues (the spike in asthma and COPS in the past 50 years is linked to the boom in wearing acrylic, polyester and nylon clothing), brain fog and even brain damage, tumours and lesions, chronic fatigue syndrome, long-term skin problems...the list goes on and on. So it's not about being a "yarn snob"- it's being responsible and realising that what you save on a ball of yarn, you will eventually pay a hundredfold with your own health. I don't know about you, but I'd rather spend a couple of hundreds on the best quality natural fibre yarn possible than cause myself and/or others serious health problems. And if somebody cannot afford it? It's better go without that extra sweater or hat than to live with a serious health problem.

[@taccora]

Also, if you're willing to buy directly from Knitting for Olive, their mohair is 7.75 euros, which is about $8.4 per skein/ball.

[@patriciashapiro361]

Bear in mind that this is the price without taxes! It is not the real price. For example, in Germany this mohair ball would come up as 9,22 €. This is a regular price for mohair, neither especially cheap nor pricey. Perhaps you are in the US, customers there seem to be accustomed to be shown prices without tax, but for us this means a bad surprise, because prices here are always shown with tax included.

[@taccora]

@@patriciashapiro361 That is very important for European countries. I didn't think about what taxes would be since I'm American and we don't pay European sales tax.

[@mundanemornings]

As someone who considers herself a forever learner, I LOVE listening to these podcasts! I'm convinced I could listen to Taylor talk about how to grocery shop and I would be so engaged. Thanks for all this work!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Wow Kayla. Thank you so much. Truly. ❤

[@ritaanders1718]

LOL, I was thinking the same, not necessarily grocery shopping but close enough.

[@MyJoyanne]

You know she'd have really useful tips on grocery shopping 😂

[@joshmccall]

Couldn’t agree more! Taylor, teach us to shop (for groceries)! I’ve added ALL videos to playlist 🤣

[@brendamacdougall3749]

Thanks for all your hard work in educating knitters on alternatives in their yarn choices. Much appreciated.

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

You are so welcome! Thank you for watching Brenda!

[@knitgirl.7676]

Wool Warehouse in the UK has Drops Kid silk for about $5.50 for a 25 gram ball. They have fast low cost shipping to the US. I chose DHL and it gets to me on the east coast of US in about 3 days. They have many other great brands for low prices too. I love that you provide options for everyone. It is one of things I enjoy about your podcast. Knitting should be fun and accessible and you help make that a reality for everyone.

[@habituallylive2333]

Took my order about 2-3 weeks when I ordered from there

[@knitgirl.7676]

@@habituallylive2333 that is surprising. I use DHL and order from there several times a year and it has never taken more than 3-5 days- usually 3 days. I live in a big metro area on the east coast where there are many daily flights back and forth. Not sure if that is why it is so much faster for me. I know the DHL is a lot faster than regular royal post. If you google it, there is usually a coupon code that almost makes up for the DHL shipping cost.

[@mushkyzajac8356]

I have ordered from Wool Warehouse before, and I have been happy. It's a great business.

[@denisesimms367]

Because of the postal strike in the UK, it has taken longer for me to get my yarn, but usually, I have a quick turnaround. They have great sales too

[@habituallylive2333]

@@knitgirl.7676 thanks for the tip! Now that I think about it, I did order during the holiday season, they might have something to do with it!

[@mattsisoler6125]

My yarn shop has a “2nd chance corner”. It’s brand new yarn that comes from estates, sometimes people who have single skeins leftover from projects. Sold at discounted price.

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

I think this is a fantastic idea! Good for them for featuring these options.

[@anishinaabae]

buying cones of mohair is a great tip! i don't know why it totally slipped my mind, but i was watching a video by retro claude where she mentioned buying yarn cones off of ebay and i was like "how on earth did my broke, penny-pinching ass forget about yarn cones?!" an hour later and i managed to snag myself nearly 7000 meters of a baby alpaca/super kid mohair blend in a lace/light fingering weight - for $40 CAD!! i don't think i'll ever shut up about it. yarn excitement aside, i only recently stumbled across your channel but your videos give me something a lil extra to look forward to each week, which i very much appreciate! thanks for everything you do!

[@alexan3688]

I love the way you focus on accessibility while still being able to achieve a certain look or quality! You have some of the most inclusive and judgement free fiber arts videos on KZbin, so thank you for that! Also, loving seeing the swatches you’re making on the knitting machine!

[@MrsKWheatley]

I really loved this podcast. I felt under pressure to spend a fortune on yarn I just can't afford, and I enjoyed hearing your un-snobby guide to all the different options. And I learned a new word: "floofy!"

[@JustWriter]

Thanks so much for the mock searches and displaying the words of the different types of yarn. I really appreciate that you took the time to do that. 😁 Your peacock 🦚 looks amazing. 🤩

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

My pleasure! Thank you for watching! And I'm glad you like the Peacock! ❤️

[@madisonheise]

I used the Red Heart brushed for my sons Halloween costume. I crocheted him a koala bear hoody and it definitely gave that fuzziness I was looking for without spending a ton of money on something that already doesn’t fit him anymore

[@alwaysreadin163]

THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS VIDEO! I like the look of mohair, but the price, ethicality, and allergies (to pretty much all animal fibers) are huge stoppers for me when it comes to the real thing. I have been on the hunt for faux mohair so thank you thank you thank you for giving ideas!!

[@susannegulde5725]

I love how inclusive all your videos are. Thank you!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Thank you for watching Susanne. ❤️❤️

[@ChynnaBlue1]

These are great options for both budget AND for vegans. I knit a lot of shawls this year for family members and one is a vegan. I used a bamboo and cotton yarn for her shawl and also found a yarn made of recycled bottles. I already prefer suri alpaca to mohair, so I'm glad to know I'm saving some money there. I have some KnitPicks Aloft mohair in my stash now for a planned shawl and it's really soft. Both Hobbii and KnitPicks have frequent sales and I got my Aloft during the Black Friday sale.

[@comfycozytoo]

I just can't get enough of your videos. I watched your fav podcast episode earlier today and you hit nail on the head. I came for knitting. but I'm watch your stuff everyday because you're a delight to watch/listen to. Wish we could get coffee!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Oh I just love this Laura. Thank you so much. ❤️

[@cynthiaburja3526]

Lots of great info today. Thanks for doing the research and sharing with us! Appreciate it.

[@karenb136]

Thanks so much for the info. Very helpful. 🧶

[@3_yarn_arts]

Hi Taylor, I just came here to say thank you for your podcasts! I learn SO much from you about the different yarns and how they combine together! And this is exactly the information I was missing on youtube. I also absolutely love how you describe colours, textures, the sweater’s composition etc. It is very interesting to listen to you and I get a ton of information and I started understanding how all those different designs and textures work :) two years ago I did not see a difference between cotton and wool yarn and what to use for what 😮😅😅 so much progress since then ❤

[@MsMegil]

Thank you for all the w/o R.A. you put into this episode. Very well done.

[@rockstarkate78]

Re-Spun comes in such nice colors. And it is even more halo-y once you knit it up.

[@HeatherMayI]

I love how you take your time to explain things that some people may not be familiar with. Thank you. I am knitting the lace and fade boxy using knit picks aloft mohair and their upcycle alpaca blend sport which has a great halo as well.

[@MaxMoloko]

Thank you for the thoughtful comment about synthetic yarn! I am not a fan of them, but they have their uses. I knit sometimes for someone who immediately gets an explosive reaction to any animal fiber, she needs synthetics, and I don't even dare to have projects for her close to my almost all natural stash. And I would not knit socks without some sort of strengthening fiber, which of course mostly come in synthetic form.

[@sallygradle413]

Use the yarn that is the best choice for all the reasons: budget, availability, allergy, or just because that’s the one you like!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Damn. Right. 💃🏼

[@catofthecastle1681]

So many knitters have problems switching yarns, or what substitutes will give them the same look! I teach a class in how to accomplish this with the least stress and worry!

[@lgassin]

Oh man, this was SO helpful. I suspect several yarn store sites will crash in the wake of your video! :)

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Thank you for watching Lisa!

[@cynthiawilliams1375]

You are a very good instructor and have obviously researched very thoroughly each video’s topics. So glad i found your videos

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Thank you so much Cynthia!

[@SharonCullenArt]

This is why when I hear different channels two about how many grams of yarn they used in a project I think, that's not helpful! How much yardage? Because if I went a lighter or heavier weight yarn but I'm still using worsted or whatever it doesn't really tell me how much I need for the sweater overall. Sure I look at weight or take into account differences but what I need to make sure of is having the yardage needed for the project. This was an excellent video Taylor. So informative. 👍

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

I’m so glad this was helpful Sharon. And I COMPLETELY know what you mean. I do not subscribe to the notion that weight alone is all you need to determine yarn needs. There’s a ratio there that is very 👏 important 👏. ❤️

[@danakennedy8352]

Wonderful job giving honest, thorough reviews for budget friendly yarn. Thank you for all of your in-depth research. I'm grateful I stumbled upon your channel today!

[@ritaanders1718]

Thank you so much for taking the time to create an information filled segment about these types of yarn, especially on a budget. I’m starting to think about garment knitting and felt overwhelmed by this trend which I do like. So far my knitting has centred around accessories, so I also appreciated your other segment about raglan sweaters. I look forward to every episode. I’m a relatively new subscriber.

[@ThirdStreetCreates]

Thank you so much for this video and your support to all yarn users.

[@mariaorticelli8031]

Such a great ramble, Taylor..thank you so much for a wonderful informative video!!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

My pleasure Maria! Thank you for watching. ❤️

[@mariaorticelli8031]

@@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS always look so forward to all of the great content you prepare and share with us!! See you next time!🙂

[@deniseyoung3738]

What a fun topic....I've got some mohair and suri/silk yarns but I haven't figured out the right project yet. Thanks for the info! Also, I can't imagine criticizing anyone for their yarn choices. Shouldn't we be supporting each other as creators?

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Thank you for watching Denise! Happy hunting for your mohair and Suri! And yes. 100% agree.

[@deborahhuss9579]

I'm really enjoying your podcast. I have learned so much! Thanks for all the research and time it takes to put it together. You are an exceptional knitter and I look forward to the next episode.

[@CoralCoModernSewing]

Your yarn subs and comparisons are so helpful. I would love to see a video on pairing yarns.

[@carolynblack420]

I really appreciate how much time (and expense) that you spend putting together this very informative and helpful content.

[@cynthiakarkut8645]

Great episode! You have so much knowledge thank you for sharing! I would love to see an episode on the different weight of yarns and what they are used for. Also how do you determine the weight when you add another fiber. And how about a tour of your room and your stash!😁

[@jenngee5]

I agree with this idea!! Explaining yarn weights and combining them to get different weights would be sooooo good!!!! Sometimes I find myself thinking, ehh worsted, DK, sport… it’s all the same right…!! 😂

[@ninawilhelm36]

Great episode, Taylor. I cannot wear wool or mohair around my neck and no, an undershirt or turtleneck does not prevent the itch. I wondered why so many people were using wool paired with mohair. You gave me a new option. I'm primarily a sock knitter and use wool and nylon which does not bother my feet or ankles. I may branch out and try a sweater. thanks again for all the super information. Nina

[@raechellconn8857]

Wow, this was just so helpful! Thank you so much for sharing. I love your podcast. Have a lovely day. :)

[@nokesbob2256]

First off. You are a genius! I have wondered for a long time about just this thing. And how to figure out what is good and what is bad and what the differences are. Here you are answering all the questions! Thank you! Can you do a segment on sparkly yarns? That seems to be popular right now, and it's not that easy to find that sparkle to add to your yarn. I've heard of some, but the price is ridiculous. I would love to hear where you can find budget friendly sparkle!

[@valeriebishop561]

Fantastic! I may be the only one in the world that hasn't made something and used mohair together with another yarn! haha

[@lindanoseworthy8594]

Very helpful Taylor.

[@BeautifulOaks]

Cool research!

[@j_filippo]

You answered my questions re budget floofy yarns. Thank you

[@lindamarkus1298]

Very informative. Thanks for helping education us on “Mohair”.

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

My pleasure Linda! Thank you for watching!

[@SewRunKnit]

Goodness, gracious, Tayler! Class is in session. I learned so much. Besides all of the official insight that I got into yards with halo, I love the way you started the podcast and told people to knit what they could afford and disregard any comments that might otherwise interfere with them following their choices.

[@wendylingYT]

This was so helpful and wonderfully presented Tayler! Because you explain things so well and are a yarn dyer, are you able to make a video explaining varigated/multi-colored yarns and how one can determine the pattern of these hand-dyed skeins/hanks? Some do not show swatches knitted up, and because these yarns tend to be more expensive, it's so helpful to me to see the knit or crochet swatches to see the pattern of the dyed yarns before buying. Are there tell-tale ways to know how the dyed yarns will look like when knitted?

[@kayegallagher6703]

I watch this a second time because I am allergic to mohair (which I knew prior to watching this video the first time) but I may also be allergic to Suri too so now I'm looking for inspiration and direction! Thank you Tayler!

[@elisemelancon295]

Great podcast. Thank you for this video, for mentioning that there are in this world all kinds of yarn, in all kinds of budgets so everybody who wants to knit can. It is such a relaxing, creative and beautiful hobby. I was listening to your podcast while knitting The Saturday shrug using a yarn with wool and acrylic. I am in love with the pattern and the fabric I am creating. I cannot wait to wear it. 🧶

[@ameliawilliams9905]

Love love love this video. Great suggestions - I just purchased some of the blown yarn to make a sweater! It’s a Caron cake for $14.99 a cake, and I’m so excited to see the fuzzy effect it gives! You truly make a no judgement environment, which is spectacular. Great stuff!

[@kayhammock]

Hi! Just found your channel last night. Can't wait to pick up my needles after a long hiatus. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us! ❤

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Hi Kay! Welcome! I’m so glad you’re picking up your needles again. That’s a good feeling. ❤️❤️

[@sarawormewoole9284]

I appreciate this info as one who can't wear mohair -- so itchy!!! But I like the look. Thank you.

[@nwilliams9845]

Great video with worthwhile information for all knitters - thank you!

[@noelleparris9451]

I love how inclusive you make these vids showing the options for different types of yarn. I find it sad that some people look down on others who don't use or purchase certain things (be it yarn, needles, wine or clothes: some only look at brand, price and things that make some products unaffordable for some). You did a good job here IMO. I love using really nice yarns (so far for hats, shawls and scarves), and sometimes I buy them. But I am an advanced beginner, so I'm still using yarns on the low end of price points (for bigger projects) until I get my skills to the point that the higher priced yarns make sense. Thank you for doing this. And, by the way, you are really very entertaining. P.S. The Lion Brand Re-Spun is a nice yarn; it knits and crochets up well and feels pretty good considering the content. Makes a great throw or blanket!

[@annegraheck5713]

Thank you for this timely video. 😊

[@westrose586]

Love your sweater! Great tips for halos. Thanks!

[@katiep9502]

You are so down to earth and its so nice. Thankyou.

[@mindykirschner2979]

Another great podcast! The Plucky Knitter destash thread in their group on Ravelry is incredibly active with lots of people selling their top quality mohair and suri yarns at deeply discounted prices.

[@Sylkis89]

Natural dual fleece wool, brushed under water after knitting. Lopi is a good example but that's just a typ of the iceberg. Also longwools :) I wanna also say aplaca but that's just as expensive as mohair lol But basically, I know that some people will hate the idea, but the scratchier the yarn the better. You can always cook it and treat it with hair conditioners and such, so it's really, really not an issue if you don't like scratchiness (I personally can't understand why people seem to dislike it usually, but oh well). But the scratchiness comes from thick, long fibres. And these can get brushed out easily to form the prettiest kind of halo there is. The kind that still makes the knit look like a knit and not a fur or a felted piece, but a knit with a very long and relsilient halo. And this is especially where dual fleece wools and mixes of dual fleexe with longhair aplaca and/or longwool and/or mohair shines. And also why, in my opinion, most angora is terrible despite being so crazily overrated and overpriced... usually very short and dense fluff that makes the piece look felted unless it's an insanely thick knit, which will not feel good and will be really hard and heavy in the way it feels cause it lacks the cushiony resilience of wool, mohair and alpaca...

[@wipshosfos5538]

Thank you for posting. So so so informative. And fun to watch. Your definitely a favorite!

[@clc1302]

Thank you so much for this information! Well done!

[@teresaharp]

Thank you, I've been wondering about this and your video was so helpful! 😊 saving it to reference

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Oh I’m so glad this was helpful and timely! Thank you for watching Teresa. ❤️

[@sheridohner7087]

You are Awesome! Since I found ur podcast I have watched each one. Thankyou for all the hard work and research you put into what you offer. And…I just love your style. So glad I came upon ur podcast!

[@aileenmiles1693]

Thanks, this is timely! I'm currently looking for affordable mohair to pair with a yarn I already have. Considering trying out one of the Hobbii alternatives that are only 30% Mohair, like Diablo.

[@susangorcoff1219]

Thank you Taylor for all your hard work….it was very informative. I love the sweater you are wearing! I always look forward to your podcast :)

[@emilysmith2784]

I always thought that halo made the jumper look used. I am glad it’s considered desirable now. Some of my store bought cardigans have the halo from just years of wear and tumble dryers making the yarn fluffy 😂. I would be interested in what fibres you think will stand the test of time.

[@adiayarnarts2567]

Thanks for the positive message regarding using synthetic yarns. Love the video

[@cathycarbone1598]

Had no idea of all the options! Thanks for this info 😊

[@susanmartorana2282]

Thanks for all your research! This was such a timely video for me, as I’m considering casting on one (or two!!) projects with the fingering/mohair combination. I would also like to mention that you are one of my absolute favorite podcasters. The information, delivery and relevance of your topics are spot on. Plus, living in Florida, I can relate to the warmer months you too experience! Thanks again.

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

It is my pleasure Susan. Thank you so much for watching. I'm glad that this video was helpful! And also, thank you so much for your kind words here. That means a great deal to me. ❤️

[@melaniecahoon7681]

Thank you! Your research and variety of suggestions is always appreciated.

[@judybostick3934]

I love the look of the mohair projects especially the love notes sweater from Tin Can Knits. But unfortunately I live in South Carolina and don't have many days when mohair would be wearable. Love your videos and your sweater. I have knit the Felix a couple of times and have one in my sweater queue right now.

[@sfffpmc]

Best comment so far… a friend who is “less discerning about the type of flood”. HA! We all have one of those I guess… Love your videos.

[@sfffpmc]

oops. Autocorrected. Less discerning about the type of FLOOF! not flood...

[@JLZ109]

7:24 - Tangentially related, I used to think shiny meant it surely was synthetic, but I actually recently purchased a skein of 100% 2-ply wool yarn on sale that was super shiny and as you said, looked plastic-y, even more so than a skein of 100% acrylic I had around. If it wasn't a reputable brand and I hadn't felted it to make sure I would have thought I had been duped! It reminded me of that rough feeling of hair that wasn't combed through before braiding, as if the wool hadn't been completely carded before spinning, somehow. It made for a rustic-looking yarn meant for weaving things like bags and mats, and simultaneously it was highly processed, with barely any lanolin left in it, making it feel even scratchier on my skin. It was pretty interesting and it challenged my preconceived notions about wool and synthetics. As an aside, I also really appreciate you giving out synthetic fibers suggestions - I go plastic free as much as I can, but 100% wool isn't easy to find or very cost effective in my (tropical) country, and there's also this... elitism - which is part of a larger scale issue with the commoditization of environmentalism in general - about going plastic free, that I feel can be very disheartening for people who cannot afford it.

[@nicannjones]

As always, great tips about the topic you are speaking about!

[@Monica-ni6jy]

I love that you call out that it is about enjoying your knitting, no matter your budget or the yarns you use. I am always turned off by the "yarn snobs" out there. I love knitting with lovely yarn, but sometimes they are out of my budget for larger projects. I am a plus-size person so sweaters and things take more yarn and are more expensive which can limit what yarns I can afford to use.

[@deerpark]

Learned so much from this video. Thank you!

[@katibere1966]

This is awesome!! Thanks for doing and sharing your research!! 🧶

[@lisarichardson4771]

So thoughtful and well researched! Thank you, Tayler - love your podcast!

[@rachelmitchell2144]

Wow! Thank you for all the research and those options!

[@AngelaGranaVarela]

A big contender for unspun yarns is also Manchelopi from Wooldreamers! Beautiful Spanish yarn that doesn't break the bank either

[@laurienowland8584]

Thank you for this great episode! I have ordered some kids silk from hobbii using your link. Thank you!

[@kat22885]

Knitting for Olive also has a really affordable mohair. Especially with the favorable euro to usd exchange rate, I found buying directly from them and having the yarn shipped to the US was an excellent deal! Really happy with the sweater I made using their yarn!

[@tocapey9966]

Thanks for sharing this information. Lots of sweaters are calling for mohair and its good to understand the different options available. ❤

[@jessicastuppyknits871]

Thank you so much for all your work on the pod.

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

My pleasure Jessica! Thank you for watching. ❤️

[@bernadettefuson1678]

Thanks for putting this together. I sometimes forget that you can just ask Etsy for what your really want. It might not be there but it usually is. Also appreciate the look at synthetic alternatives - gift knitting for people who don't know how to care for natural fibers. Very interesting and informative episode.

[@amanda.strutt]

This was SO great + so appreciated!!!

[@janeolson-janeolsonart3755]

Great episode! I like Concept Mohair too.

[@jeaninegunn4118]

This was so informative - thanks!!

[@kristingeater]

Thank you so much for this video! I'm allergic to mohair, and I've been looking for some good alternatives.

[@debbiedennie255]

Omg I love you are so informative!! Thank you for all your tips etc … have a great day Taylor 😊

[@existential-axolotl]

I’m knitting a two-color brioche project with Drops Wish, which is a chunky chainette/blown yarn and the halo and squish factor is glorious, highly recommend

[@kathykelly2148]

Wow thanks so very much for all this great info!

[@liziking306]

Yes yes yes... thank you for this podcast Tayler! I did buy Knit Pick's Aloft not long ago and I cannot wait to pair it up with Knit Pick's Simply Wool Worsted. I am definitely going to look into the other ones you shared. Such great information... Please have an amazing day today and every day! 🙂

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

My pleasure Liz! Thank you for watching! ❤️

[@carolynhp1319]

If you don’t mind a more rustic yarn, Brown Sheep Lamb’s Pride has wool spun with mohair (85% wool, 15% mohair) that definitely gives you that halo for a reasonable price. I can wear mittens knit with this yarn, but not much else because of the itchiness factor, but everyone’s sensitivity is different. Thank you for your yarn reviews and suggestions!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

This is a great suggestion Carolyn! I love Lamb’s Pride!

[@ShannaCarlson525]

I’m currently knitting with that Jiffy yarn in the color Plum and I’m a fan! It’s so soft and I don’t have any complaints. I’m knitting Jo Storie’s Mink cardigan and its working up beautifully. I truly can’t wait to finish this!

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Oooo I’d love to see it! Soo glad you’re enjoying it. ❤

[@cmyocum]

Fabulous information, thank you! Hobby Lobby's Yarn Bee Romantique is a great budget-friendly option for that "flooffy" luxurious look and feel. It's gorgeous and super soft. It's 100% acrylic.

[@WOOLNEEDLESHANDS]

Ah yes! I just looked it up. It definitely has that brushed look. Very good suggestion! Thank you! ❤️

[@TheSablelou]

Thank you so much for all this wonderful information! So many wonderful choices! I have made one shawl with mohair and now I’m obsessed! But you are so right about the cost!

[@heatherbill1328]

Great video as usual!! So glad you added the disclaimer at the front. I just wanted to mention that for anyone looking for an alternative to hand dyed suri, Fiberspates Cumulus is a nice option. My LYS in the US sells it for about $8 per 25g.