Illimani Yarn Amelie

What does chainette mean?

Chainette yarn is made as a tiny knitted tube, like an i-cord, rather than a twisted strand. Amelie is made by first creating a delicate silk chainette core. Then, alpaca and wool fibers are blown through to create the soft halo you see when knitting or crocheting. This newer blown yarn technology makes for a very lightweight and warm strand.

Is Amelie warm?

Yes! Baby alpaca is a very warm fiber for its weight, and another benefit of Amelie’s chainette construction is its ability to insulate efficiently. The hollow core of the strand, and the lightness of the blown alpaca & wool fibers, traps air inside and makes a warm strand that isn’t dense or heavy.

Is alpaca itchy?

Most find this alpaca super soft! If you’re unsure, hold a skein up to your neck or face to test its softness in sensitive areas of your skin.

How do I care for it?

Hand wash using cold water and a gentle wool wash like Soak, then lay flat to dry.

How much yarn do I need?

Referencing your pattern and your desired size & gauge is the best way to ensure you will have enough yarn! As a general example, knitting a size M of the Great Lakes Pullover by Ozetta calls for 1199yd of an aran weight yarn, or 8 skeins of Amelie.

We always recommend Ravelry as an all-encompassing pattern database in the shop. Many patterns on Ravelry estimate the yarn amount you will need for the size you are looking to make, but at Apricot Yarn & Supply, we can always offer advice if your pattern is unclear, you are working freehand, or something else!

If you are curious how Apricot Yarn & Supply began, read the full story on Our Story page.