Knitting

Important Information on Yarns

Choosing Yarn

There is quite a range of variants in what is marketed as “Baby Yarn”. There are differences in thickness, amount of twist, stretch factor and softness to name a few.  We require that you use only 3-ply acrylic or acrylic blend yarns for knitted or crocheted items.  Only plain finish yarns are acceptable; not yarns that are “furry” or have novelty “texture” of some kind.  Sparkle yarns, metallic inclusions or an additional string are not appropriate for our items.  When making a pattern that uses more than one color yarn, make sure the yarn is a duplicate just in another color to ensure the thickness, stretch, etc., match.

Use the smallest knitting needle or crochet hook to pair with the yarn.  The goal is to produce finished products with the smallest possible holes.  Because many patterns have “holes” such as:  lacy, cable-knit, granny type “shell” patterns and any “loopy” borders.  Only approved patterns can be used for the protection of our preemies.

Threads of Love appreciates all the hours that volunteers contribute by making these items!  We hope these guidelines will be very helpful as you serve the Lord in this ministry.

Quick Points

• 3-ply acrylic yarn, plain finish
• When adding another color, it should be a different color of the SAME yarn
• No knotting.  Follow instructions on YouTube on how to add yarn.  Leave long ends and make sure they are woven into the project.
• For Kangaroo Squares they must be 18 – 20 inch squares.
• When making hats, they must fit over your fist and go below your wrist, or 7 inches in length. When you cuff the hat, it must come below the wrist.
• All booties should measure 3 inches in length at the sole or foot.
• Items CANNOT have any pet or human hair on them, and washing will not get rid of all hair.  The following is a solution:  Make your skein of yarn into a ball and put it right away into a plastic bag leaving the opening just slightly open so your yarn thread can fit through as you are working on your project.  When you are not working on your item, put your item into the bag with the yarn immediately.  This will decrease the possibility of any (if not all) pet/human hair contaminating your project. 
• Washing Guidelines:  Use non-allergenic, non-scented baby detergent on gentle cycle.  Dry on low.  After washing, please place in gallon-sized plastic storage bag.