
Sustainable Fashion: Caring for Your Knitted Treasures
Written by Sarah
Maker at Loopy Weaves
Love Your Knits, and They'll Love You Back
You've invested in a beautiful, handmade piece of knitwear. Maybe it's a cozy scarf or a delicate top. To keep it looking as good as the day you bought it, a little extra care goes a long way.
Washing: The Gentle Touch
The golden rule of knitwear? Hand wash is best. While some yarns claim to be machine washable, the agitation can often distort the shape of handmade items.
- Fill a basin with cool water and a mild wool detergent.
- Submerge your item and gently squeeze the suds through the fibers. Never wring or twist!
- Rinse with cool water until all soap is gone.
Drying: Gravity is the Enemy
Never hang a wet knit! The weight of the water will stretch the fibers, leaving you with a garment that's two sizes too big. Instead, lay the item flat on a clean, dry towel. Roll the towel up like a sleeping bag to press out excess water, then unroll and reshape the item on a drying rack away from direct sunlight.
Storage Secrets
Fold, don't hang. Hanging knitwear creates "shoulder bumps" and stretches the neckline. Store your knits in a cool, dry place. If you're putting them away for the season, consider using breathable cotton bags with a cedar block to keep moths at bay.
With these simple steps, your Loopy Weaves treasures will remain heirlooms for years to come.