The act of knitting itself is a meditative, and slow way to create but with some savvy choices it can also be more sustainable. Sustainable knitting does not mean being perfect. This is solving in terms of buying better, using it all up and leaving a fewer pile of unfinished projects collecting dust or that random skein with no intended project to match.
Opt for natural fibres (and know what you’re looking at)
Natural fibres are either derived from plants or animals and, again depending upon the blend, can be more durable than manmade fabrics such as polyester, etc. It also tends to breathe better plus natural fibres age well. For a Knitting Kit, visit www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/knitting-kits
Common options include:
Wool – warm, bouncy and proper for structured clothing items
Cotton – it is breathable and washable, making it perfect for summer knits or homeware
Linen – strong, but can last forever and will only get softer over time
Alpaca – warmer, softer and lighter than sheeps wool.
Top tip: look at the fibre percentage on the label. Blend – A mix of two or more yarns, which can be a good balance between wear and expense.
Think about where the yarn is made, and how it is produced
For those of you who care about sustainability this means:
Ethical treatment of animals (mulesing free wool, no mystery fibres)
Lower-impact dyes or undyed yarns
Optionally use local or UK-spun yarns (fewer transport miles)
You don’t have to be perfect, just do better, when possible.
Plan Your Projects to Waste Less
Much of this waste in knitting is from buying yarn without a project.
Easy fixes:
Decide on a pattern first, then they buy the yardage it calls for.
Swatch first, and swatch small.
Skip the extra skeins unless you are fairly certain that they will be utilised.
Use what you already have
Use up stashed yarn before splurging on new.
Ideas for leftovers:
Striped hats, mitts, and socks
Granny-style patchwork blankets (knitted squares)
Colour-blocked cushion covers
Headbands, baby booties and mug cosies.
Make your knits last longer
What shows that something is sustainable is if you have it for years.
Easy fixes:
Opt for some classics you will actually put on.
Practice doing simple repairs (blocking out properly, sewing in ends to prevent them from working their way free; mending small holes).
Wash these knits lightly and store them folded so they do not get misshapen.
A realistic sustainable knitting mindset
Sustainable knitting is progress: less impulse, more finishes and fibres which feel great to wear year after year.