You should preshrink wool before working with it, especially if you plan to use it for sewing garments. You may also want to use it for other projects where fit and size are important. Preshrinking wool helps prevent future shrinkage after the item is washed.
What are the reasons for this?
Wool can shrink significantly when exposed to moisture and heat. Preshrinking ensures any shrinkage happens before you cut and sew the fabric; what’s more, it ensures the final product maintains its intended size and fit after washing.
How do you preshrink wool?
To steam shrink, lay out the wool flat on an ironing board or another surface that can withstand heat and moisture. Place a damp cloth or towel over the wool and use a steam iron to press on the damp cloth. Do not let the iron touch the wool directly. The steam will penetrate the wool and cause it to shrink slightly. Allow the wool to air dry completely before handling it.
How popular is Aran yarn?
Aran yarn offers warmth and resilience, making it ideal for knitting cosy garments. Its sturdy texture and thickness keep wearers warm in winter. You can care for your Aran yarn sweater by using tepid water and rinsing with cool water.
According to Irish Central, knitter Gabrielle Malone says she crafted a Taylor Swift cardigan not only for the singer but also for her fans. When Taylor wore an Aran sweater in a promotional image, it helped the style to soar in popularity.
How do you soak wool?
Fill a basin with cold water and add a small amount of mild detergent. Submerge the wool fabric in the water and let it soak for around 15 to 30 minutes. Gently rinse the wool in the cold water to remove any detergent. Roll the wool in a towel to remove excess water. Do not wring or twist the fabric. Finally, lay the wool flat on a clean towel or drying rack to dry completely. Avoid hanging, as this can stretch the fabric.
Related: A Beginner’s Guide to Knitting a Scarf
What to do if a wool jumper has already shrunk
Preshrinking prevents the problem, but finished garments can still come out of the wash smaller than they went in. Wool fibres have tiny scales on their surface that open up, move and lock together under heat, moisture and agitation, which is exactly what a hot machine cycle provides. Synthetics such as polyester are less prone to this because their fibres are longer, smoother and less affected by heat.
Not all shrinkage can be reversed, but acting quickly gives you the best chance. Steam from an iron, pressed down while you gently ease the fabric back into shape, can help, although the result may not last. Soaking the garment in lukewarm water with a little hair conditioner or baby shampoo can relax the fibres enough to stretch it back to size; lay it flat and pin or weight it in shape until it dries. For a treasured item, a professional dry cleaner may be the safer option.
Washing and caring for a finished wool jumper
Once a wool garment is made, careful washing keeps it in shape and makes it last. Always read the care label first. Many merino jumpers can go on a cold machine wash, but the wrong setting can ruin a piece before it has been worn much.
Whether washing by hand or by machine, turn the jumper inside out, use a mild detergent and keep the water cool. Some biological detergents are best avoided, as their enzymes can be harsh on wool. Check the label before tumble drying too, as heat is what makes wool shrink.
A properly dried jumper should not need ironing. If stubborn creases remain, use the wool setting and steam or lightly spray the fabric rather than pressing down, because pressure on wool can leave a shine. Looking after a knitted garment this way makes the most of the wool and the work that went into it.