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Learn how To Soften Briggs & Little Tuffy yarn

Learn how To Soften Briggs & Little Tuffy yarn

Posted by Kelly Holtsclaw on Mar 10th 2023

Are you looking for a way to soften your Briggs and Little yarn? If so, you're in the right place! This blog post will share some of the best methods to soften Briggs and Little yarn. We'll cover everything from washing to steaming and more so that you can get the softest yarn for all your projects. Read on to learn more!

What You'll Need  

   Briggs and Little is a small Canadian mill that has been in operation since 1857. The company, founded by John and William Briggs, specializes in producing 100% wool yarns for knitting, crocheting, and rug making. Their popular Tuffy yarn is often used to make warm outerwear items like mittens, socks, and sweaters. 
   
   It's important to note that wool is incredibly durable, but it can still become stiff and dry if not properly cared for. You'll need some Eucalan wool wash or shampoo, and basic supplies to soften your Briggs and Little Tuffy yarn. You'll also need access to a sink or basin filled with lukewarm water. Make sure you have enough space to submerge your yarn in the water fully.

Instructions

   Softening Briggs and Little yarn can be done with a few simple steps. The first step is to hand wash the yarn using a mild shampoo or wool wash such as Eucalan Wool Wash. Fill a sink or container with cool water, adding a small amount of your shampoo or Eucalan wool wash. Gently submerge the yarn in the mixture, making sure all of the fibers are completely soaked. Let it sit for 10 minutes before swishing it around in the water. Drain the water, rinse the yarn with clean, cool water, and add conditioner if extra softening is needed. Rinse again.

   Next, gently squeeze the excess water from the yarn and lay or hang it outside to dry. If you're working with larger hanks of yarn, you may need to roll the yarn up in multiple towels to help absorb the moisture. You can place the yarn in the sun on a rack to speed up the drying process.

     Briggs and Little yarns from Canada are an excellent choice if you're looking for high-quality wool from a small Canadian mill. Made from premium materials, their Tuffy yarn, knit into outerwear, will keep you warm and comfortable for years to come. With proper care and maintenance, you can ensure your Briggs and Little yarns continue to soften for many years.

Tips and Tricks

   
When softening Briggs and Little yarn, a few tips and tricks can make the process a bit easier. 

   For one, if you have access to small Canadian mills, they are a great resource for wool that is already pre-treated and softened. In the long run, this can save you time, energy, and money, as you don't have to put in the effort yourself. 

   Another tip is to use Eucalan Wool Wash when you wash your yarn. Eucalan Wool Wash is specially formulated for hand washing wool and other delicate fabrics. It is milder than detergents (never use Woolite!), which helps keep your yarn soft. 

   Finally, when knitting outerwear with Briggs and Little yarn, it is best to knit a swatch first. Knitting a swatch will give you a feel for the yarn before working on a larger piece. This will give you an idea of how the yarn behaves and how it will respond to different treatments. Plus, this will help ensure you get the desired result with your finished knit garment.

Final Thoughts

   For those who prefer the durability of Briggs and Little Yarns, there is a way to soften it for a more comfortable knitting experience. With just a few simple steps, you can transform your yarn and create a garment that is both comfortable and long-lasting. Small Canadian mills have been producing quality wool for centuries, so it stands to reason that their products are highly durable and give excellent results. Eucalan Wool Wash, specifically designed for wool garments, will gently clean and condition the yarn while providing superior protection against pilling. Whether you're knitting an everyday piece or a piece of knit outerwear meant to last, Briggs and Little yarn is a perfect choice.