Free shipping over $175 use code: NIECUTEDESO
What is Cotton Yarn on a Cone?
Cotton yarn on a cone is simply cotton yarn wound onto a cone-shaped core. Instead of being sold in skeins or balls, it comes in a large, continuous length. This format offers several advantages for crafters and manufacturers alike.
Think of it as buying in bulk! You get a lot more yarn in one go, perfect for big projects or frequent users.
Benefits of Using Cotton Yarn on a Cone
- Large Quantities: Cones contain significantly more yarn than traditional skeins, reducing the need to join new yarn frequently. This is especially useful for large projects like blankets or garments.
- Fewer Ends to Weave In: Less frequent yarn changes mean fewer ends to weave in at the end of your project. This saves time and effort, resulting in a cleaner finish.
- Cost-Effective: Buying yarn on a cone is often more economical per yard compared to buying individual skeins. If you use a lot of yarn, this can save you money.
- Convenient for Machines: Cones are ideal for use with knitting machines and weaving looms, as they provide a smooth and continuous feed of yarn.
Types of Cotton Yarn on a Cone
Pure Cotton
100% Cotton: This is the most common type. It’s breathable, absorbent, and easy to care for. Purl Soho’s Cotton Pure On A Cone is a great example, offering a soft, washable, organically grown sport-weight yarn.
Pure cotton is great for items that need to be gentle on the skin, like baby blankets or washcloths.
Blended Cotton
Cotton Blends: Some cone yarns blend cotton with other fibers like polyester or acrylic. This can enhance durability, colorfastness, and reduce shrinkage. Premier Yarns’ Home Cotton Cone blends recycled cotton with polyester for added strength.
Blends are often used for items that need to withstand frequent washing and use, such as dishcloths and potholders.
Mercerized Cotton
Perle Cotton: This type of cotton undergoes a mercerization process, which strengthens the fibers and gives the yarn a lustrous sheen. Silk City Fibers offers a Perle Cotton 5/2 cone yarn known for its strength and soft hand.
Mercerized cotton is often used for weaving, machine knitting, and other projects where a smooth, strong yarn is desired.
Popular Uses for Cotton Yarn on a Cone
- Knitting and Crochet: Cotton cone yarn is suitable for a wide range of knitting and crochet projects, including blankets, garments, accessories, and home decor items.
- Weaving: Its strength and evenness make it ideal for weaving projects, from dish towels to larger textiles.
- Machine Knitting: The cone format is particularly well-suited for use with knitting machines, providing a continuous supply of yarn.
- Dishcloths and Scrubbies: Durable cotton yarns, especially blends, are perfect for creating sturdy and absorbent dishcloths, potholders, and face scrubbies.
Tips for Working with Cotton Yarn on a Cone
- Yarn Bowl or Stand: Place the cone in a yarn bowl or on a cone stand to prevent it from tipping over and tangling as you work. Hobbii.com suggests placing the cone on the floor in a yarn bowl for stability.
- Wind Off Excess Yarn: For smaller projects, you might want to wind off a portion of the yarn from the cone into a ball or cake for easier handling.
- Check Tension: As with any yarn, always check your tension before starting a project to ensure consistent results.
Where to Buy Cotton Yarn on a Cone
Many online and local yarn stores offer cotton yarn on a cone. Here are a few places to start:
- Purl Soho: Known for their high-quality Cotton Pure On A Cone yarn.
- Silk City Fibers: Offers a variety of cotton cone yarns, including Perle Cotton.
- Hobbii.com: Features Cotton Kings CONE 500, a fingering-weight cotton yarn.
- Premier Yarns: Provides Home Cotton Cone, a recycled cotton and polyester blend.
- KnitPicks: Sells Dishie Cone, a durable cotton yarn ideal for various projects.
Choosing the Right Cotton Yarn Weight
Cotton yarn on a cone comes in various weights, from fingering to bulky. Here’s a quick overview of common weights and their uses:
| Yarn Weight | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| Fingering (Sock) | Lightweight garments, socks, delicate accessories |
| Sport | Baby items, lightweight blankets, dishcloths |
| DK (Double Knit) | Versatile for garments, blankets, and accessories |
| Worsted | Heavier garments, blankets, home decor items |
Conclusion
Cotton yarn on a cone is a versatile and cost-effective option for knitters, crocheters, and weavers. Its large quantity, reduced need for joining, and suitability for machines make it a favorite among crafters. Whether you’re making dishcloths or a king-size blanket, consider the benefits of using cotton yarn on a cone for your next project!