Rowan yarns, part of world leading industrial thread and consumer textile crafts business, Coats plc, has launched their first sock yarn. Available in eight stunning shades, the yarn will be manufactured using the fascinating and increasingly popular hand painting method.
Sourced from Cape Mohair Spinners in South Africa, the yarn is painted by the team at Lance and Ines Khoury’s hand painting department, which takes enormous pride in employing individuals from some of the poorest and most marginalised sections of the community. One of their goals is to create opportunities for growth and development, something Rowan is extremely proud to support. As a result of the increase in production needs following Rowan’s interest in the yarn, the company has relocated to larger premises and taken on more staff.
The hand painting process is quite a complex one, and requires practice to achieve the correct technique. Each hank of yarn is laid out and then marked with dimensions according to the project. The dye is then applied using sponges – each yarn requires a specific technique according to how the composition absorbs the dye. The hanks are then steamed to set the colour, rinsed, softened, and finally dried.
Each 100g hank is an exquisite blend of 45% wool, 20% mohair, 25% polyamide for added durability and a luxurious 10% silk. What’s more, only one of these hanks is required to knit a pair of socks. Accessory designs will also fit perfectly with the yarn composition, creating flawless shawl and shrug designs with outstanding stitch definition.
ENDS