Can you use a steamer on merino wool?

The magic of steam-setting (safe, simple, beginner-friendly)

Quick answer: Yes—steaming merino (including handspun) is safe when done gently. Hold the steamer 6–10 inches away, don’t handle the yarn while it’s warm, and let it cool completely. The steam helps the yarn relax and “puff up” so it looks softer and more even.

A gentle steam adds bloom to merino handspun—soft, lofty, ready to shine.

What happens to merino handspun when you steam it?

Steam adds heat and moisture, relaxing, twisting, and allowing the fiber’s crimp to rebound. That rebound shows up as bloom (puff/loft), a smoother overall look, and fewer lively kinks in the skein.  Steam makes merino relax and bounce back to its natural shape—so it looks fuller and a bit fluffier. Done gently, it won’t felt.

Will steaming felt or shrink merino?

No, not if you avoid rubbing or squeezing while it’s warm. Felting needs rubbing plus heat and moisture. We’re only using gentle steam and hands-off.

How to steam a skein (easy 5 steps)

1. Tie the skein in 2–3 places so it can’t tangle.
2. Hang it up or set it in a metal colander over steam (don’t let it touch the water).
3. Hold the steamer 6–10 inches away and pass over the skein for about 20–30 seconds per side.
4. Don’t squeeze or twist while it’s warm—let the steam do the work.
5. Let it cool and dry fully. Done!

What fiber is good for practicing?

Try Malabrigo Nube roving. Lightly pre-draft, split to manage the color, and test a small skein to see how much puff you like.

Want the handspun look without the spinning session?

Browse my small-batch Handspun Yarn—ready to cast on and full of character.