WELCOME TO COUNTY DONEGAL IN IRELAND

This publication invites you on a journey of discovery through the rich history of County Donegal in western Ireland, including tales of its centuries-old textile tradition. The region‘s rugged landscape and vibrant culture are reflected in the colours and textures of its textiles. Learn more about the yarns you are using and infuse your knitting with a new appreciation for quality, tradition and artistry. Alongside inspiring knitting patterns, you will find fascinating facts about the origins, colours and properties of the yarns, which capture imaginations with their rustic character and unique aesthetic appeal.

LANDSCAPE – THE COLOURS

The rugged beauty and expressive textures of the landscape along Ireland’s western coast serve as inspiration for the colours of DONEGAL WOOLEN SPUN and DONEGAL TWEED+. Each colourway captures elements of the wild Atlantic coast and reflects the heather-rich hills, the green pastures and the deep, slate-blue waters. Delicate speckles and subtle hues are reminiscent of the varied scenery – of granite cliffs, windswept beaches and dramatic skies – and give each ball of yarn its authentic Irish character. The Donegal yarns embody the spirit of this breathtaking landscape and combine traditional Irish heritage with modern craftsmanship.

IRISH KNITTING TRADITION – THE PATTERNS

Traditional Irish knitting patterns – particularly those that emerged from the Aran tradition of knitting – are much more than mere embellishment. They originate from the Aran Islands off the western coast of Ireland and tell stories of ancestry, everyday life and hope. The distinctive cable, honeycomb, diamond and herringbone patterns symbolise, for example, the ropes used by fishermen, the desire for prosperity and protection against the vagaries of nature. Each pattern has a meaning, often passed down through generations – a legacy that you can wear, knitted into jumpers, vests and scarves. Although they look complicated, many of these patterns are intuitive from a technical perspective, while at the same time offering advanced knitters scope to get creative with variations. Those who work with traditional Irish textures not only immerse themselves in a piece of cultural history, but also give their handiwork expression and character. In contemporary interpretations, classic patterns are often abstracted, enlarged, mirrored or deliberately reduced to align with modern silhouettes and lend minimalist designs an air of depth.

DONEGAL TWEED+

Spun and dyed according to the time-honoured tradition of County Donegal in Ireland, DONEGAL TWEED+ is just waiting to be transformed into classic pieces that will be cherished by generations to come. Feel the authenticity of the traditional production process in the occasional discrepancies in length and thickness, which are hallmarks of quality craftsmanship and genuine character rather than flaws. These irregularities give each project an individual touch – no two pieces are the same. It is precisely this distinctive texture that makes tweed yarn ideal for simple patterns such as stocking stitch or the classic cable knit, as they showcase the interplay between colour and texture in a particularly beautiful way. Since DONEGAL TWEED+ contains residual spinning oil, knitting and washing result in a remarkable transformation: the yarn comes into its own, growing more voluminous and gaining a luxurious softness that accentuates its timeless look.

70% 22μ Merino wool from Australia (mulesing-free) | 30% Corriedale wool from New Zealand – approx. 105m / 50g – NN 4.5-5 (US 7-8, UK 7-6)

DONEGAL WOOLEN SPUN

Made in Ireland's County Donegal using traditional machinery and techniques, DONEGAL WOOLEN SPUN is a firm favourite thanks to its unique mottled colours. It is produced as woolen spun yarn, which involves spinning shorter wool fibres together loosely without fully combing or parallelising them beforehand. Unlike worsted spun, where the fibres are aligned so they are parallel and spun more densely, woolen spun retains small air pockets between the fibres. This makes the yarn particularly light, warm and voluminous. Characteristic features of DONEGAL WOOLEN SPUN include its tactile feel and understated use of colour. Unlike our DONEGAL TWEED+ with its striking, colourful flecks, the colours of DONEGAL WOOLEN SPUN subtly blend into one another. This creates a soft and harmonious mottled look that gives the yarn depth and vitality. Thanks to its tactile texture, which becomes even softer after washing, DONEGAL WOOLEN SPUN is ideal for traditional patterns such as cable knit or Fair Isle designs. It holds stitches together well and gives the knitwear a comfortable stability – without compromising on softness.

100 % 22μ Merino wool from Australia (mulesing-free) – approx. 105m / 50g – NN 4.5-5 (US 7-8, UK 7-6)

DONEGAL TWEED+ and DONEGAL WOOLEN SPUN have the same gauge, so all patterns can be knitted with either yarn.

WOOL AND KNITTING IN DONEGAL – A HISTORY

The tradition of spinning, weaving and knitting in the cottages of south-western Donegal has been well documented all the way back to the 19th century. Most households processed the material themselves using local and imported wool: the fibres were dyed, spun and made into yarn, which was then knitted into woollen clothing or sold to local home weavers to make tweed. These items of clothing were primarily worn by members of the household; however, they were also sold to other parts of the country or in some cases even exported abroad. In the mid-20th century, growing demand for wool yarn led to the construction of modern spinning factories in the region, taking production to an industrial level. The traditional spinning and dying techniques were developed and integrated into larger-scale production processes. Technical advancements meant larger quantities of yarn could be produced with no loss of quality – both for the domestic market and for exports. In the decades that followed, production was increasingly professionalised, new machine technologies were introduced and the range of products was expanded, particularly when it came to novelty yarns. Yet despite this modernisation, Donegal yarn retained its distinctive style and the emphasis on using natural materials and authentic processing methods was never lost.

DONEGAL YARNS – THE WOOLEN MILL

The Donegal Yarns woollen mill is nestled amongst the hills of south-west Donegal, right on the coast along the Wild Atlantic Way. Its origins date back centuries and are rooted in the old tradition of hand spinning. The famous Irish tweed yarns were originally spun, woven and knitted in the home. Around 100 years ago, these traditional products made from natural fibres found their way onto international markets; ever since, authentic “Donegal Tweed” has enjoyed an excellent reputation worldwide. Today, Donegal Yarns is one of the last remaining suppliers of this authentic and high-quality product in Ireland that still produces all its yarns locally. In the historic woollen mill in the village of Kilcar, yarns of the highest quality are made using natural, sustainable fibres, including wool from Ireland, New Zealand and Australia and fine blends with cashmere, mohair and alpaca. Donegal Yarns works closely with farmers and retailers throughout the production chain – from farms to the fashion industry – and promotes sustainable wool processing as an active member of the Woolmark Company. Like our DONEGAL TWEED+ and DONEGAL WOOLEN SPUN yarns, every yarn spun by Donegal Yarns receives a certificate of authenticity which guarantees its origin, authenticity and quality.

Yak – the animal

Yaks live in the high mountains of Asia and are perfectly adapted to extreme conditions. In Mongolia they have been kept for over 5000 years, in close symbiosis with nomadic families. Most of the animals are domesticated and provide everything necessary for survival in the highlands: milk, meat, leather, wool and even fuel in the form of dry dung. They can reach a weight of over a ton.

Yaks are the only cattle to have a multi-layered coat. It is made up of coarse outer hairs, a protective intermediate layer and a fine, warm undercoat. This natural construction preserves them from icy cold temperatures down to minus 40 degrees and is breathable at the same time, keeping the animal comfortable in summer. Long belly hairs offer additional protection on frosty nights, while short, powerful legs enable good grip in the steep mountains. In times of extreme cold, yaks even slow their respiratory rate to up to seven breaths per minute in order to save valuable energy.

In spring the yak loses its fine undercoat, which is carefully combed out and used for the production of yarn. This way of life not only makes yak wool of particularly high quality, but also more sustainable than many other exclusive fibres. Yaks graze in harmony with their environment, without tearing up roots or damaging soil.

Yak fibres – characteristics

Yak wool is one of the most exclusive fibres in the world. It is incredibly soft and light, yet very warm. The diameter of the fibre is 15 to 19 microns, which is comparable to cashmere. Combed out once a year, the fine undercoat yields about 300 to 500 grams of wool per animal once it has been separated from the coarse guard hairs.

Yak fibres owe their lightness and excellent thermal qualities to a hollow interior. This makes them especially good for warm, light, insulating clothing. The fibres are absorbent and at the same time they release moisture again quickly. Garments made from yak wool feel soft, have a smooth drape and are comfortable to wear. The natural shades, from dark brown to black, also give the wool a calm, elegant effect.

LANGYARNS – yarns with yak

YAK

A classic yarn composed of 70 % extrafine merino wool and 30 % yak. Splendidly soft, it is available in beautiful colours. Ideal for all who love the touch of pure elegance on the skin.

VAYA

VAYA is created from a chainette strand of cotton combined with extrafine merino fibres for warmth and dark yak fibres for depth and character. This mixture produces even stitch definition with a lively structure – for knitting and crochet pieces you can enjoy wearing all year round.

NOMAD

NOMAD is a little thinner than YAK and warmer than VAYA. The yarn has a soft, light haptic and is comfortable to wear. Due to its chainette construction the yarn is elastic but stable, knitting up to produce even stitches. The natural yak fibres give NOMAD a subtle grey-brown undertone that emphasises the original beauty and depth of the fibres.

Alpacas are part of the camelid family and descend from the smaller vicuñas. Over 4 million of the estimated 6 million alpacas live in the Peruvian Andes at around 4,000 metres above sea level (as of 2018). Unlike llamas, which were bred as pack animals, alpacas were domesticated specifically for their fine fleece used in textile production.

Farming and Shearing

In the Altiplano region, areas such as Puno, Cusco, Arequipa and Huancavelica are key centres of alpaca farming. Indigenous farmers keep these gentle, social animals in small herds of 50 to 150. Some herds live semi-wild in the Andes and are rounded up once or twice a year for shearing, where each animal produces between 3 and 4 kg of fleece. The alpacas graze on grasses and herbs without uprooting the plants, which helps protect the delicate Andean ecosystem. Their light step also prevents soil compaction.

Huacaya or Suri?

These elegant animals, with slender legs and long necks, belong to two main types: Huacaya and Suri. Suris are quite rare, making up only around 7% of the global alpaca population. Their coats grow in silky, curly locks that give them a distinct appearance. Huacayas grow a uniformly crimped fleece. Suri fibres, in contrast, are smoother and shinier. Both types have a soft insulating undercoat protected by coarser guard hairs. Fibre colours range from pure white to beige, through every shade of brown and reddish-brown, to grey and deep black – even multicoloured or spotted alpacas exist.

Fibre Properties

Alpaca wool is not only luxuriously soft; it also offers many other desirable features, comparable to Merino or cashmere:

• Temperature regulating & lightweight:
  the hollow core of the fibre makes it exceptionally light and helps balance body temperature.
   
• Moisture wicking:
  alpaca can absorb up to 25% of its weight in moisture while remaining dry to the touch.
   
• Odour neutral:
  naturally odourless and resistant to smells, it stays fresher for longer.
   
• Hypoallergenic:
  with little to no lanolin, it’s suitable for sensitive skin and requires less processing – saving energy and resources.
   
• Durable:
  strong and elastic, alpaca yarns are less prone to pilling and felting. However, garments may stretch slightly with wear or washing, so we recommend generous swatching when planning your project.
   
• Heat resistant:
  alpaca wool is flame retardant and only ignites at around 560°C.
   
• Versatile:
  it can be spun into many types of yarns – from strong, multi-ply sock yarns to soft laceweight fibres for elegant garments and accessories.
   

Fibre Classification

The softest fibres come from a young alpaca’s first shearing or from the back and shoulder area of adult animals. Alpaca is one of the most luxurious natural fibres, alongside vicuña, yak, camel, mohair and cashmere.

Our producers classify the fibres by micron count, and you’ll find these exact labels on our LANGYARNS and WOOLADDICTS alpaca products:

Royal Alpaca: under 19 microns

Superbaby Alpaca: 19 – 20 microns

Baby Alpaca: 21.5 – 22.5 microns

Alpaca / Alpaca Superfine: 25.5 – 26.5 microns

Mixed Pieces: 27 – 28 microns

Huarizo: 29 – 30 microns

Coarse Alpaca: over 30 microns

Baby Suri Alpaca: 22.5 microns

Suri Alpaca: up to 27.5 microns

Our Alpaca Yarns

Our alpaca yarns, made from premium Peruvian fibres, offer a wide selection – from sturdy sock yarns like ALPACA SOXX 4-PLY to ultra-soft beauties like SURI ALPACA and MALOU LIGHT, and timeless classics like BABY ALPACA. Fans of alpaca blends, tweed, or gradient colourways will also find plenty to love. All qualities combine softness with durability – the perfect choice for beautiful knitwear that stands the test of time.

Explore our full range here: Alpaca Yarns 

Linen is a wonderful natural fibre for summer projects – breathable, durable, and pleasant against the skin. However, linen behaves quite differently from other yarns such as wool or cotton. To make knitting or crocheting with linen an enjoyable experience, we've put together some helpful tips.

1. LET THE YARN FLOW LOOSELY THROUGH YOUR FINGERS

Unlike wool, linen has little to no elasticity. This means the yarn should flow loosely through your fingers while knitting. If too much tension builds up, it can lead to cramping, pain or tightness in your hands. A relaxed grip and even working rhythm are especially important when handling linen.

2. CHOOSE WOODEN NEEDLES INSTEAD OF METAL

Linen is naturally a bit stiff. Smooth metal needles can make it difficult to control the yarn – it may slip too easily. Wooden or bamboo needles offer a clear advantage: their slightly rougher surface provides just enough grip to keep the yarn in check. This makes it easier to handle and helps your stitches stay more even.

3. WASH AND BLOCK YOUR GAUGE SWATCH – IT’S ESSENTIAL!

When working with linen, it's essential to knit a gauge swatch and to wash and block it. Why? Because the feel, size and especially the drape of the fabric can change significantly after washing. Linen often stretches and becomes more supple. What feels stiff and rigid at first may turn soft and fluid after washing – which is exactly why the washed swatch is so important for accurate sizing.

4. STILL FEELS STIFF AFTER WASHING? STEAMING HELPS!

Even after washing, linen can sometimes feel a little stiff. To make it more pliable, you can gently steam the finished piece – for example, with a steam iron held slightly above the fabric. This helps relax the fibres in a gentle way. And by the way: linen gets softer with every wear and wash – a real advantage for long-lasting garments!

5. LINEN YARN IS ALSO GREAT FOR CROCHETING

Linen is not only popular with knitters – crocheters also appreciate it, especially for firm stitches and textured patterns. The strong plant fibres provide excellent stability, making linen ideal for practical mesh bags, airy summer tops or crochet shirts that hold their shape.

CURIOUS TO LEARN MORE?

If you’d like to learn more about the characteristics of linen fibres and how linen yarn is produced, check out our article: FROM FLAX PLANT TO LINEN YARN

Cotton in soft, natural shades – and completely without dyeing!

BABY COTTON NATURALLY COLORED is the result of a sustainable project for the cultivation of cotton, the different earthy shades obtained directly from the types of cotton grown. A true natural phenomenon for your knitting projects!

Organic Cotton Colours – A project with heart

It all began in 1992, in North-Eastern Brazil, as Santi Mallorquí’Gou, the CEO of Organic Cotton Colours, realized his vision of sustainable cotton cultivation. Today, the project has grown to involve over 400 farming families, all working under fair conditions.

The OCC project is based on 100 % organic cultivation – which is socially, ecologically and economically sustainable. The cotton production is carried out without the use of pesticides or genetic engineering, and with pure rainwater. In addition, 10 % of the value of the cotton is reinvested in the community to improve production systems. Not only does this produce an environmentally friendly alternative to cotton that is produced conventionally, it also provides a valuable income for many families.

Naturally grown colored cotton – an almost forgotten natural wonder

Did you know? Cotton doesn’t only grow in white! In nature, there are strains of cotton flourishing in soft shades of green, ivory and brown. But with industrialisation and the high demand for white cotton, these naturally colored alternatives were almost forgotten.

Today we can celebrate the comeback of naturally grown colors with BABY COTTON NATURALLY COLORED – the plants are grown in a system of mixed regenerative agriculture, often together with as many as five other crops. So the soil remains healthy and fertile. And the best thing about it? No pesticides, no machines, no genetic manipulation – just pure nature. By avoiding artificial irrigation, this method of cultivation saves up to 90% of water, compared with conventional cotton production.

BABY COTTON NATURALLY COLORED – pure nature on your skin

Our BABY COTTON NATURALLY COLORED brings these original cotton colors directly to your knitting project. The color palette is composed of seven soft shades, created by plying together the base colors of green, ivory and brown. Because the cotton has not been dyed, having been processed in its natural color, the yarn is free of unnecessary chemicals. This makes it particularly skin-friendly – perfect for babies, children and everyone who likes to do something good for their skin.

Note: Due to the nature of the yarn, colors may fade if left in direct sunlight. To preserve the colors, avoid exposing balls of yarn or finished projects unnecessarily to direct sunlight.

Punto 83 – inspiration for you

Are you looking for ideas for things to knit with BABY COTTON NATURALLY COLORED? Then our PUNTO 83 is just right for you! Here you will find lovingly designed patterns to knit for babies and children, models to make the most of the natural yarn.

ANANAS

Yarn from pineapples: initially it may sound strange, but this is an impressive example of how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. With our new ANANAS yarn, we combine natural materials, eco-friendly production and stylish shades. But what lies behind this special material?

AnamPALF

The basis of our ANANAS yarn is the pineapple leaf fibre AnamPALF, developed by the certified B-Corporation Ananas Anam. This textile fibre is obtained from the leaves of pineapple plants – a material that would normally be discarded as waste and burned after the pineapple harvest. This creates CO₂, which is harmful to the environment.

Instead, the leaves are processed to produce fibres, saving up to 6 kg of CO₂ per kilo of fibres. This innovative use also means an additional income stream for the farmers, as they can now sell the leaves that would otherwise go to waste.

Sustainable production without compromise

Another advantage of AnamPALF is an environmentally friendly production process. The fibres are prepared without the use of bleach and an enzyme is employed during the washing process to remove impurities, so no harmful chemicals are required. The remaining stages in the process are fully mechanised, keeping the environmental impact minimal.

What is special about our ANANAS yarn?

For ANANAS, we combine AnamPALF fibre with lyocell, a similarly eco-friendly fibre. It’s this mixture that makes ANANAS so special:

• Pineapple fibres give the yarn a slightly rustic look with a natural feel that is nevertheless soft, and not scratchy.
• Lyocell ensures stability and adds a subtle, elegant sheen – perfect for light-weight summer projects.

Feeling inspired? Discover designs in ANANAS

In our newest publication, FATTO A MANO 284, you will find a variety of summery designs made with ANANAS. From a casual summer top to an elegant shawl – the models demonstrate the versatility of this unusual yarn. See how you can combine your creativity with environmental awareness by using sustainable materials such as ANANAS.