Silk

Silk is spun from the cocoons of silkworms which they have spun to transform from caterpillar to silk moth. The pupae are killed and removed from the cocoons, which are then soaked and spun into silk fibres.

There are several kinds of wild silk, but these give a much smaller amount of silk, so cultivated silk is far more common from harvested silkworms. Silk is produced in many countries around the world, but China and India produce the most silk annually.

World War 2 interrupted the silk trade from Asia, making silk prices increase rapidly. This led the US industry to look for synthetic alternatives such as nylon which is used extensively today.

Silk is one of the strongest natural fibres but loses 20% of it’s strength when wet. It has poor elasticity, and if stretched will remain like that. It is a poor conductor of electricity and is therefore susceptible to static cling. It is a smooth, soft fibre with a high sheen but is not slippery like synthetic alternatives. It has been used since ancient times and is still a highly popular fibre.

Silk worms

Silk blend yarns

Lace
DK
4ply
Aran

Silk blend knit & crochet kits

Light & Lacy Penhale Shawl Crochet Kit
Light & Lacy Shawl Crochet Kit - various laceweight yarn options
Tidal Wrap
Tidal Wrap - Lace Tranquil yarn
Tehidy Shawl Crochet Kit
Tehidy Shawl Crochet Kit - 4ply Tranquil yarn
Flowery Infinity Scarf Knit Kit
Flowery Infinity Scarf Knit Kit - DK Egyptian yarn
Slouchie Twist Beanie Hat Knit Kit
Slouchie Twist Beanie Hat Knit Kit - Aran Merino Silk yarn
Flower Row Crescent Shawlette knit kit in shade Waterworld
Flower Row Crescent Shawlette Knit Kit - 4ply Silky Sea yarn