3 Methods to Soften Scratchy Acrylic Yarn for Your Crochet Projects

Unlike wool, acrylic yarn can be rough against the skin and scratchy and can eloquently degrade the quality and level of a garment. This specialty yarn needs to be softened like most other types of yarn. Let us help you by Offering methods of Softening Acrylic Yarn to ensure excellent quality and elevated yarn standards. In this in-depth article, Crochet, care, and How to Soften the crocheting yarn, we will share general principles on how to treat crocheting yarns and forming crochet, one tip and technique at a time. Let’s dig deeper and explore how to soften your yarns correctly to ensure that your crochet experience is much better than before. Here, however, we are focusing on discrediting the everyday appeal that crocheting with rough yarn is better by stating three acquainted and appropriate ways that appeal to the broad base.https://textile-yarn.com/acrylic-yarn/

What Are the Best Methods to Soften Acrylic Yarn?

Softening acrylic yarn can significantly enhance its comfort and overall feel. Here are some effective methods to achieve a softer texture:

Using Hair Conditioner: A Simple Way to Soften

A hair conditioner can be very effective in softening acrylic yarn. Hair conditioners contain certain compounds that coat fibers, making them easier to manipulate. The coating reduces the stretch and improves the softness of the yarn. To begin with, to soften an acrylic yarn using a hair conditioner, do the following;

1. Begin by taking a small portion of the hair conditioner and diluting it in lukewarm water. The type of hair conditioner used affects the dilution, so always check the instructions on the packaging.
2. Take the skein or the hank of the acrylate yarn and dip it into the mixture, starting with the one with water and the hair conditioner. Ensure it gets completely wet.
3. After soaking for 30 minutes to an hour, stir the mixture or agitate it slightly so that the hair conditioner spreads evenly.
4. After one hour of soaking the yarn, take it out and press it gently to remove excess water. Ideally, one should not wash, rinse, or twist the yarn, as that may cause it to stretch or, worse, damage it.
5. To finish, rinse the product in clean, lukewarm water to remove any hair conditioner residue and achieve the desired softening outcome.
6. As a first step, softness can also be enhanced by squeezing the yarn with a towel to speed up the wiping process. Next, it can either be placed down on fiber or air-dried, while a dryer sheet may also be beneficial in reducing static and lending a fresh scent.

By taking such steps and utilizing hair conditioners, the quality of the texture can be improved, and the overall feel of the yarn can be optimally gained. For complicated preferences, it may be a good idea to soak different types of conditioners thoroughly, ensuring maximum softness.https://textile-yarn.com/blog/can-you-block-acrylic-yarn/

Soaking in Fabric Softener: Pros and Cons

When it comes to softening acrylic yarn, soaking it in fabric softener is a common technique. Here are the pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

• Softer Texture: Fabric softener can soften acrylic yarn fibers, making it more comfortable to wear and touch.
• Reduced Static: Fabric softener helps minimize static electricity that can cause the yarn to cling or feel stiff.
• Pleasant Fragrance: Fabric softener adds a lovely scent to the yarn, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

Cons:

• Residue Buildup: Fabric softener may leave a residue on the yarn, affecting its appearance and potentially attracting more dust and dirt.
• Potential Allergies: Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to the ingredients in fabric softener, which can lead to skin irritation or respiratory issues.
• Effect on Absorbency: Fabric softeners can reduce the absorbency of the yarn, which may be undesirable for specific projects or applications.

When using fabric softener to soften acrylic yarn, consider the specific brand and type of fabric softener, concentration, and soaking time. Following the manufacturer’s instructions and conducting a small test swatch before applying the technique to a larger project is essential to ensure compatibility and desired results.

The Effectiveness of White Vinegar in Softening Yarn

As an expert in the domain, I thoroughly investigated reports on the effectiveness of white vinegar as a yarn softener. The typical outcome is that white vinegar is one of the best options available for softening yarn. The vinegar’s acidic content helps eliminate any chemicals or stiffness present in yarn, making it softer and easier to work with.

To apply the white vinegar, the general guideline is to dilute the concentration back to three parts: water and one part vinegar. It is preferable to do this with the vinegar already mixed with water. Place the yarn gently into the mixture, allowing it to soak for around half a minute to a minute or so. Make sure that the yarn gets thoroughly soaked. Once this is done, wipe the yarn with clear water to cleanse out the vinegar left on it. Rinse any leftover liquid and let the yarn to dry out.

It should be highlighted that although white vinegar is useful in softening yarn, it is only effective depending on the yarn type, the yarn’s structure, and the individual himself/herself. Moreover, before applying the white vinegar method to a larger work area, it is usually best to do a small sample patch first to see if it is alright with the intended softness results.

Such regulations and trustworthy information will assist you in this study, enabling you to examine the usefulness of white vinegar when seeking to soften yarn and achieve the necessary comforting softness of your projects.

How Can You Soften Acrylic Yarn Before Using It?

Softening acrylic yarn can enhance its comfort and drape, making it more enjoyable to work with and wear. Here are some tried-and-tested methods to achieve optimal softness:

Pre-Soaking the Skein of Yarn

Before using the acrylic yarn, it is essential to re-soak it to soften the fiber. The following instructions should help you achieve the desired outcome:

1. First, pick a very mild detergent: Use the appropriate washing softener or detergent intended for the “acrylic fiber towels,” while avoiding harsh chemicals and bleach. Doing so would ruin the yarn.
2. Next, Place shallow water into a sink: Make sure there is enough lukewarm water in the basin or sink to submerge the yarn completely.
3. Now, introduce the mildly soapy water: Add a small amount of the blending agent in the best way you can and as the rule suggests.
4. Now, let’s put the skein into the Water: Now, slowly and entirely submerge the skein in water in a basin for 30 minutes to 1 hour while letting it rest.
5. Slightly Shake the water: Try to gently shake the water occasionally to allow any leftover particles on the yarn to loosen.
6. Try to Clean the yarn: Lastly, ensure you remove the yarn from the basin and only gently squeeze it to remove the excessive water. Avoid anything that twists the yarn or will ruin it.
7. It’s best to let the yarn dry naturally, so spread the wet yarn onto a clean towel or drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Do not place it under direct sunlight or domestic heaters to avoid potential color alteration.
8. Wrap the yarn in warm, soapy water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This allows air to be infused and the yarn to soak up heat, enhancing its softness and making it easier to untwist.

Optional: Repeat as desired Although for just added softness, you can undertake the pre-soaking effort, be careful with the yarn and its instructions and limitations on the care they can get. Thus, there are three broad steps for achieving the desired alteration. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding all of the above, considering including all allowed methods in addition to the gentle touch and small sample patchwork tests for yarn projects to achieve plastic-needed yarn softness and adjustable properties.

Rinse and Gently Squeeze for Optimal Softness

Remove any remaining soap or conditioner residue by rinsing the yarn under cool running water. After the yarn is rinsed decently, squeeze it out of the water without wringing or twisting the fabric because it can stretch and damage it. These procedures must be followed to achieve the most significant degree of softness and maintain the properties of the synthesized yarn. The rationale for making this rinsing and squeezing is based on removing any residual cleaning agents that might be sources of subsequent color fading or distortion.

Let It Air Dry, or Use a Dryer Sheet

As with any wool or fiber project, cleaning your yarn can be difficult. However, once you are done and move on to the drying stage, you can either harness the power of air drying your yarn or opt for the faster approach: a dryer sheet. Weighing the two options, let us see how air drying performs differently than using a dryer sheet.

If gentle drying to a level with no heat or, more specifically, no agitation sounds appealing; air drying is the way to go. One can either place the yarn on dry and clean towels or hang them somewhere that is airy; however, make sure that the area is well-ventilated. Air drying is a fantastic option for those niche or semi-delicate yarns that can’t take a great deal of friction or heat.

While on the other end of the spectrum, some would go for a dryer sheet in order to reduce friction and heat altogether, however while the advantages are many, the major downside remains the loss of that signature dryer smell. If your yarn is prone to static or can not withstand the produced heat, dryer sheets may cause some damage to the bond. However, assuming all goes well, it is essential to continue using the guidelines provided by the manufacturer as they lay out the foundation to maintain the yarn’s quality.

According to my knowledge, to understand the best approach to caring for your specific yarn, you might want to look at the alleged most effective yarn caring/drying techniques. These sources would complement the search for other types of yarn to use when you want to preserve the utmost softness.

What Makes Acrylic Yarn Stiff and Scratchy?

In some instances, acrylic is harsh on the skin and rigid because of its origin and considering its manufactured methods. Unlike natural fibers, which are barely processed, yarn is obtained through the polymerization of synthetic compounds. This, in turn, gives a close weave and compact structure of the yarn, primarily devoid of palliative qualities typical of wool or cotton. Additionally, several other variables, such as content, weight, and quality of the yarn’s manufacturing processes, also exacerbate the material’s coarse and rough nature. Nevertheless, amply acrylic yarns are not always the sort because they can be manufactured or composed of softer materials or spun in ways that yield a ‘silky’ feel.

The Nature of Acrylic Fibers

Acrylic fibers are nitrile-based synthetic fibers, which means they are made from acrylonitrile polymerization, and their roots are from petroleum-based substances. The primary causes of the coarse and rigid physical structure of these fibers are the following:

1. Structural Composition: Acrylic fibers are brittle and compact because they contain polymerized man-made compounds, which are utilized throughout their production processes. There is an absence of a breed consisting of cotton or a wool-like fabric that would lend them a soft character.
2. Chemical Composition: The phenomena above explain the rough exterior since they are primarily hydrophobic and possess high rigidity; however, they possess low tenacity. They also mean that when warm liquids are applied, they do not get the same absorbent properties as natural fibers would have.
3. Fiber Diameter: Within the spectrum of acrylic fibers, thinner ones are relatively softer and comprise thinner fibers on the cerebrospinal fluid shunt, whereas the coarser one still gives off a rougher feel to the body.
4. Manufacturing Quality: It is also understandable that since the class of materials being worked with varies, the impact they leave when producing the fibers varies, thus their textures. Rougher touch results from coarse touching iron acrylic fibers due to sometimes poor mixing technique.s

Often, acrylic yarns will be thick and rough to the touch. However, with technological advances, it is now possible to manufacture softer acrylic yarns. Most of the time, the choice of acrylic yarn is influenced by the brand, the blend, the spinning technique, and the finishing processes, such as washing or drying. Understanding these blend components assists in sourcing acrylic yarns that will result in a better and more enjoyable knitting and crocheting experience.

Impact of Manufacturing Process on Yarn Texture

Acrylic yarn’s texture depends on the yarn’s texture, most notably on the manufacturing process. Part of the softness and the feel of yarns is the manufacturing process. Some of the important ones are:

1. Fiber Composition: The composition and blend of acrylic fibers clearly impact the feel. Blends with other fibers, such as wool and nylon, can make the yarn soft and more supple.
2. Spinning Technique: The spinning technique applied throughout the yarn’s manufacturing can influence its texture. Several spinning techniques, such as ring spinning and open-end spinning, yield different textures and softness of the yarn.
3. Post-Processing Treatments: Final application/style upgrades, such as washing and drying, affect the synthetic’s final style/texture. They also appear to enhance the yarn’s touch requirement.
4. Fiber Diameter: The thickness of the acrylic fibers can affect the feel. Thicker fibers produce a softer feel, while coarser fibers can produce a rougher feel.
5. Manufacturing Quality: The manufacturing processes of acrylic yarns have an equally great bearing on the texture of the yarn. Higher standards of manufacturing processes produce softer yarns that are more pleasant to touch.

Certain aspects of an acrylic yarn’s production must be considered when choosing it since they affect the overall feel and comfort during knitting or crocheting. Using yarns manufactured or composed with these factors in mind will additionally increase your crafting experience and make it easy to create the texture you wish for your projects.

Comparing Cheap Yarn to Higher Quality Yarn

To distinguish between cheap and expensive yarn, I mainly focused on the technical aspects and characteristics of this type of yarn. I have a general conclusion; here it is:

In contrast to a more expensive brand, low-cost acrylic yarn is composed of three key elements that must be analyzed. Here are some key parameters to keep in view when comparing yarns, starting from the cheapest and ending with the most expensive:

1. Yarn content: Cheap yarn may consist of a mixture of different fibers, which affect the structure of the yarn as well as its properties. In most instances, such yarns comprise acrylic and synthetic or natural fibers. However, a thinner layer of pure acrylic fiber yarns has been manufactured in amounts in excess of 90%, which assists in making the final product soft and fairly high-quality.
2. Yarn quality: It should be noted that the quality of yarn is determined during its spinning process and finishing. Expensive yarns go through several spinning operations coupled with finishing and refinishing, resulting in consistency of texture in the final product. On the contrary, cheap yarns are nontwisted.
3. Fiber Treatment: Yarn production continues with the final stage encompassing many washing, drying and finishing procedures. In the case of finer quality yarns, they also have a tendency to specialized softness enhancement and feel improvement procedures. On the contrary, cheap yarns might lack or possess some of the post-treatment processes, which renders its feel a bit coarse.

It is to be understood that these parameters might change according to a yarn’s brand and product. To do so, it is suggested that you go through the description, technical specification, and feedback part of a particular brand to discern the best quality acrylic yarn for the intended projects. By considering these elements, an individual can first ensure that he will be satisfied with the texture and quality of the respective products, either knit or crocheted, with which he will work.

Can You Soften Yarn with a Washing Machine?

Yes, a washing machine can be used with yarn, but one must remember to be careful and adhere to specific instructions to avoid any harm that is likely to come to the yarn. Here are a few things to remember :

1. Yarn Type: Different types of yarn have varying results when used with a washing machine in a gentle setting. Fibers derived from plants, such as cotton and wool, tend to work well, unlike acrylic, a synthetic fiber.
2. Care Instructions: Check the washing instructions given by the yarn manufacturing site. Some might say that the yarn in question cannot be washed in a washing machine and needs a particular cycle or temperature.
3. Gentle Cycle: Choose the gentle cycle of the washing machine and a mild detergent suitable for the type of yarn you have. Avoid fabric softeners and other harsh detergents, as they can alter the texture of the yarn.
4. Temperature Control: Check if the yarn type being used is appropriate for the temperature being used. Hot water is often believed to be a better option, whereas cold water isn’t effective in softening the yarn.
5. Drying Method: Once the cycle is finished, setting the yarn aside to air dry is essential. Laying it down on a clean towel will allow it to maintain shape.

You should note that the washing machine method may not be effective for all yarn types and personal inclinations. It is suggested that the entire skein should not be treated using the washing machine method without prior testing of a perpendicular small sample or swatch first so that the correct level of softness is achieved while safeguarding the quality of the yarn.

Appropriate Wash Cycle and Detergent Selection

Some recommendations should be considered when washing your yarn. Appropriate selection of detergent and wash cycle is crucial to yarn’s softness and quality.

1. Yarn type: The yarn label or manufacturer’s instructions indicate the correct washing cycles and products recommended. Different yarn types require specific care and attention for the best results.
2. Delicate cycle: If your yarn is delicate, consider using the handwash cycle, as it is pretty gentle on the fabric while using the machine.
3. Water temperature: Make sure you read the yarn’s label. Many are made of fibers that can withstand warm water; however, using the correct temperature range for other types of fibers can be critical. Some yarn labels provide temperature ranges or temperature guidance.
4. Detergent for yarn: A gentle detergent that goes well with the yarn type is also a must. Strong detergents or fabric softeners must be avoided as they weaken the quality and texture of the yarn. It is wise to check the labels for detergents meant for wool or delicate fabrics.
5. Yarn care parameters:

• Correct agitation setting: To reduce the chances of damage, it is better to set the washing machine’s agitation to low or gentle.
• Spin Speed: To avoid tangling or stretching the yarn, use a low spin Speed setting or, ideally, no spin at all.

Comfort is paramount when working with yarn, so before washing the whole skein, it is advisable to wash out a little swatch to see if the yarn is able to hold its quality after the wash. As a result, care for your yarn so that you clean it while keeping its innocence.

Using Cool or Warm Water for Best Results

When washing yarn, using the appropriate water temperature is crucial to maintain its integrity and ensure the best results. While most yarns can tolerate cool or warm water, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of the yarn fiber. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the ideal water temperature for washing your yarn:

1. Check the Yarn Label: Before washing, refer to the yarn label or manufacturer’s instructions for recommended temperature guidelines. Certain fibers may have specific temperature ranges that should be followed to avoid damage or distortion.
2. General Recommendations:

• Cool Water: Cool water is ideal for most yarn types, especially delicate fibers like wool or silk. It helps prevent excessive felting, shrinking, or stretching.
• Warm Water: Some yarns, such as cotton or acrylic blends, may benefit from washing in warm water to remove oils, dirt, or stiffness. However, be cautious not to exceed the recommended temperature range.

1. Technical Parameters:

• Agitation Level: Set the washing machine to low or gentle agitation to minimize potential damage to the yarn during the washing process.
• Spin Speed: Select a low spin speed or skip the spin cycle to prevent excessive yarn stretching or tangling.

Remember to conduct a small sample or swatch test before washing the entire skein to ensure that the desired softness is achieved without compromising the quality of the yarn. By following these guidelines and considering your yarn’s specific requirements, you can effectively clean and maintain the integrity of your yarn while preserving its softness and quality.

Drying Techniques: Low Heat vs. Flat to Dry

When it comes to drying yarn, there are two standard techniques to consider: using low heat or laying it flat to dry. The choice depends on the specific properties of the yarn and the desired outcome. Here’s a breakdown of each technique:

1. Low Heat Drying:

• Some yarns, such as wool or animal fibers, may benefit from a low-heat drying method. This method can help speed up the drying process while maintaining the integrity of the yarn.
• Technical Parameters:
• • Temperature: Set the dryer to the lowest heat setting recommended for the yarn type. Avoid high temperatures to prevent felting or shrinking.
  • Time: Keep the drying time to a minimum to minimize any potential damage caused by excessive heat exposure.

1. Flat to Dry:

• Flat drying is preferred for delicate or non-heat-resistant yarns, like acrylic or plant-based fibers. This technique allows the yarn to retain shape and prevents stretching or distortion.
• Technical Parameters:
• Surface: Place the yarn on a clean, absorbent surface, such as a towel or drying rack.
• Shape: Gently shape the yarn into its intended form, whether a garment, accessory, or skein.
• Air Circulation: Ensure proper air circulation around the yarn by placing it in a well-ventilated area.

Remember to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and any specific care instructions provided with the yarn. Adhering to these recommendations will help ensure the best drying method for the specific yarn type, preserving its quality and avoiding potential damage.

Why Is It Important to Soften Your Acrylic Yarn?

The texture of the acrylic yarn may need some softening to make it more cohesive and easier to interact with since acrylic is a durable and low-maintenance material. While softening does improve the overall feel of the yarn for items like costume and blanket making, it is also beneficial in crafting sensitive materials since it is less abrasive on the skin.

Enhancing Comfort in Crochet Projects

When it comes to stitched creations, relativity and relieving stress factors are of utmost priority, be it among the creator or concerning the recipient. Softening an acrylic yarn is essential when working on a crochet project as it helps to ease discomfort to an extent when using the yarn by improving its fabric and drape properties to a satisfactory level. The following are a few of the factors behind the importance of softening acrylic yarn:

1. Improved Wearability: Softened acrylic yarn is much more pleasant and comfortable to use on the skin. The loss of rigidity and itchiness that sometimes comes with untreated acrylic yarn is eliminated, which enhances the comfort of clothes, blankets, and accessories.
2. Enhanced Workability: Softened acrylic yarn is more suitable, which means that crochet yarn experiences smoother and easier stitches. This improvement makes the experience bearable and ensures that the crochet project and stitches meet expectations.

When altering the properties of dry and coarse acrylic yarn is not an easy task, consider the following technical details to ease the process of accomplishing the desired outcome:

1. Moisturizing Soak: Immerse the acrylic yarn in a solution containing warm water and a fabric softener (or hair conditioner). The ideal duration of soaking is an average of 20 -30 minutes.
2. Gentle Agitation: Lightly squeeze the yarn, then let it go to mix it with the softening ingredients. Do not overdo it, as stirring the yarn too roughly can cause it to tangle or harm the fibers.
3. Complete Rinse: A last wash involves placing the yarn under clean running water and checking if the knobs, which have been antecedently soaked in any form of synth detergent, can be satisfactorily removed. Only when the water has been entirely cleaned can the drying stage begin.
4. Proper Drying: After operations without fully turning the yarn, it should be dried by laying it on a towel and allowing it to air dry free from direct heat and sun rays to prevent damaging effects.

Whatever the case, always check the manufacturers’ policies and the instructions that come along with the packaging. These instructions state how the yarn should be properly treated to soften the particular type of acrylic yarn that is optimal for use. Following those steps will increase the comfort level of your crocheted items and the overall quality.

Improving Yarn Drape and Softness

Several tips may be used to improve the drape and softness of acrylic. However, care instructions may be particular to yarn brands and types, so check their guidelines first. After gathering information from pertinent literature, these are some of the essential procedures and technical specifications that are in order:

1. Soaking Method: The yarn is gently soaked in warm water containing a small quantity of softener or conditioner. For this purpose, water around 30 degrees Celsius (86) is preferred. Use more fabric softener only to commensurate with the mass and number of yarns treated.
2. Softening Agents: The softening agents in softeners and conditioners help stimulate the relaxation of the mohair-acrylic yarn fibers to achieve the required warmth. Use those designated for acrylic yarn only. The amount used should be measured to avoid an overload or drastic saturation that would leave a residual effect.
3. Agitation: Mildly squeeze and release the yarn ball so that the softening agents spread uniformly through the yarn. Do not agitate too much to prevent tangling or damage to the MOHAIR yarn fibers.
4. Thorough Rinse: Wash the yarn with plain water until the residue of softening agents is completely removed. The water should be clear at this stage before proceeding to the drying stage.
5. Correct Drying: After washing, the yarn should be pulmonary squeezed to remove excessive water instead of puffing or twisting. Keep the yarn on a fresh towel or hanging rail and allow it to set. Avoid drying the yarn in sunlight or other heat sources, which may spoil the yarn.

The main aim here is to improve the drape and softness of the yarn. As such, dryness and rinsing are applicable, but most manufacturers advise against such steps. These, in general, would improve the feel as well as the overall quality of the crochet work.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the best methods to soften scratchy acrylic yarn?

A: The best methods to soften scratchy acrylic yarn include washing and drying, using vinegar, and applying a hair conditioner. These techniques help to relax the fibers and make the yarn much softer for knit or crochet projects.

Q: How does washing and drying help soften the yarn?

A: Washing and drying help soften the yarn by allowing the fibers to relax and lose their stiffness. Machine washing the yarn in cool water and then drying it on a low heat setting often results in a softer texture.

Q: Can using vinegar make the yarn softer?

A: Yes, using vinegar can soften the yarn. When washing your finished object, adding a cup of vinegar to the final rinse cycle can help reduce scratchiness and make the yarn feel softer.

Q: How much hair conditioner should I use to soften acrylic yarn?

A: To soften the acrylic yarn, use a small amount of hair conditioner mixed with water. A tablespoon of conditioner in a gallon of cool water is typically sufficient. Soak the yarn thoroughly, then rinse out any excess conditioner.

Q: Is there a specific type of yarn easier to soften?

A: Red Heart Super Saver is a common type of yarn that can be softened using these methods. However, different types of yarn may react differently to softening techniques, so it may take some experimentation to find what works best.

Q: Should I use fabric softener when trying to soften acrylic yarn?

A: While you can use fabric softener, it’s generally recommended to use a small amount and to test it on a small swatch first. Some people prefer to avoid fabric softeners due to potential residue or reactions with certain types of yarn.

Q: Can a baby blanket with acrylic yarn be softened using these methods?

A: A baby blanket made with acrylic yarn can be softened using these methods. However, it’s essential to ensure that all products, like hair conditioner or vinegar, are thoroughly rinsed out to avoid irritation to sensitive skin.

Q: What is the best way to remove excess water from the yarn after washing?

A: The best way to remove excess water from the yarn is to gently squeeze or press it out by rolling it in a towel. Avoid wringing the yarn, as that can cause it to become tangled.

Q: Does using heat help in the yarn softening process?

A: Yes, using heat can help in the yarn-softening process. A low heat setting in the dryer can help soften the stiff acrylic yarn, but be cautious to avoid high temperatures that could damage the fibers.

Q: Are there any alternatives to softening techniques if I want a super soft feel?

A: If you’re seeking a super-soft feel and the current methods aren’t achieving the desired softness, consider starting with a higher-quality yarn or a blend that naturally feels softer. Different types of yarn offer varying textures and softness levels.