Wool-Free Yarn Alternatives for Allergy Sufferers & Vegans

14/06/2025

Plant-based, skin-friendly & animal-free: yarns you'll love

Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle, suffer from animal fiber allergies, or simply want more sustainable options, you're not alone. The good news? Wool-free yarns are now available in stunning variety and quality – from silky bamboo to robust hemp.

In this post, you'll discover the best animal-free yarn alternatives for knitting and crochet – including trusted brands and project suggestions.

🧶 Why Wool Alternatives?

Wool allergies (e.g., to lanolin or animal hair)
Vegan values: no animal-derived materials
Sustainability: eco-conscious choices with low environmental impact
Low-maintenance: most vegan yarns are machine-washable

🌱 Yarn Types & Brand Recommendations

🌾 Bamboo Yarn

Soft, breathable, antibacterial – perfect for warm-weather garments.

Lana Grossa Bamboo – 100% bamboo viscose, silky sheen and drape
Pro Lana Bamboo Socks – durable blend for socks and accessories

🧶 Best for: shawls, tops, baby clothes

🌸 Cotton Yarn

Classic and skin-friendly – ideal for garments, amigurumi & accessories.

Elisa Apollo – versatile cotton yarn for all-round use
Pro Lana Basic Cotton – soft, affordable and widely available

🧶 Best for: summer clothes, washcloths, kids' items

✨ Tencel / Lyocell Yarn

Plant-based, soft, slightly shiny, and eco-friendly.

Lana Grossa Solo Lino – blend of recycled linen & viscose
Katia Tencel-Cotton – smooth and drapey mix for flowing garments

🧶 Best for: elegant tops, scarves, lacy shawls

🔁 Acrylic Yarn

Synthetic, warm, elastic – widely used and easy to care for.

Pro Lana Melbourne – soft acrylic with vibrant colors
YarnArt Baby – smooth and gentle for baby projects

🧶 Best for: blankets, toys, accessories
💡 Tip: choose recycled or eco-acrylics to reduce microplastic impact

🧵 Hemp & Linen

Natural, rustic feel with high durability and breathability.

Lang Yarns Canapa – 100% hemp yarn with a raw finish
Katia Lino 100% – smooth linen for accessories and light garments

🧶 Best for: bags, dishcloths, summer wear

💡 How to Work with Vegan Yarn

Swatch first – bamboo and cotton can stretch or grow
Support lace & drape with tighter tension or smaller needles
Consider blends – e.g. cotton-Tencel for balance
Wash gently – check for colorfastness and fiber care

🌿 Conclusion: Gentle on Skin, Bold in Projects

Animal-free yarns are more than just alternatives – they're modern, mindful choices that work for all kinds of knitters and crocheters. Whether you're after comfort, sustainability, or compassion, these yarns offer beauty and functionality in every stitch.

Do you have a favorite plant-based yarn?

Share it with us in the Facebook group or tag #strickenimtrend on Instagram!

#strickenimtrend #vegangarn #woolfreeyarn #bambooyarn #cottonyarn #tencelyarn #acrylicyarn #hempyarn #crueltyfreecrafts

Choose alternatives!

Yours,
Kathrin ☀️🧶