Learning to Love Acrylic Yarn
There was a time when acrylic yarn ruled the knitting world.
Then came the backlash. Stiff textures, squeaky stitches, and unforgettable encounters with acrylic yarns sent many knitters running straight into the arms of wool, cotton, and alpaca.
But here’s the plot twist: acrylic yarn has quietly reinvented itself.
Today’s acrylics can be soft, smooth, and surprisingly luxurious. So before you write it off, let’s take a fresh look at this modern fiber and where it fits in your knitting life.
What Is Acrylic Yarn?
Acrylic yarn is a synthetic fiber made from a polymer called polyacrylonitrile.
To qualify as “acrylic” in the U.S., the fiber must contain at least 85% acrylonitrile. Through a process called polymerization, small molecules (monomers) link together to form long chains, creating the fiber structure.
From there, the fiber is:
Dissolved into a liquid solution
Extruded through a spinneret (like a microscopic pasta press)
Formed into filaments via wet or dry spinning
Washed, stretched, crimped, and spun into yarn
The result is a durable, consistent, and highly customizable fiber.
Who Invented Acrylic Fiber?
Acrylic fiber was developed in the 1940s by scientists at DuPont.
Originally called “Fiber A,” it was first used in home textiles thanks to its resistance to moths and mildew. By 1948, it was rebranded as Orlon and quickly made its way into garments and yarn.
By the 1950s, acrylic had become a go-to material for knitters and crocheters everywhere.
Acrylic vs. Other Synthetic Fibers
Not all synthetic yarns are the same. Here’s how acrylic compares to a couple of common alternatives:
Nylon: Strong, elastic, and often blended into sock yarns for durability
Polyester: Highly abrasion-resistant and moisture-wicking
Acrylic: Lightweight, color-rich, and easy-care
Each has its strengths, but acrylic stands out for affordability and versatility.
Advantages of Acrylic Yarn
Modern acrylic yarn brings a lot to the table:
Durability
Resistant to sunlight, moisture, and many chemicals, acrylic holds up well over time.
Hypoallergenic
Unlike wool, acrylic is less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
Color Consistency
Acrylic dyes beautifully, and many yarns have no dye lots, making large projects easier.
Easy Care
Machine washable, low maintenance, and resistant to mold and mildew.
Budget-Friendly
Typically more affordable than natural fibers, making it ideal for large projects.
Improved Softness
Today’s premium acrylics feel nothing like the scratchy versions of decades past.
Drawbacks of Acrylic Yarn
Even with its glow-up, acrylic still has some limitations:
Limited Breathability
Acrylic doesn’t breathe like cotton or wool, which can make it feel warm and less comfortable in hot climates.
Less Insulating Than Wool
It doesn’t trap heat as effectively, so it may not be the coziest choice for extreme cold.
Pilling
Acrylic fibers can pill over time, especially in high-friction areas.
Reduced Elasticity
It lacks the natural stretch and recovery of wool.
Environmental Concerns
Made from petrochemicals, acrylic is not biodegradable and contributes to microplastic pollution.
Odor Retention
It can hold onto smells more than natural fibers.
Heat Sensitivity
High heat will melt acrylic. Blocking requires care… and possibly a lesson learned the hard way.
What Is Acrylic Yarn Best For?
You can knit almost anything with acrylic, but some projects shine more than others.
Great Uses:
Blankets and afghans
Baby items (easy care is a win)
Sweaters and outer layers (I am using a soft + squishy acrylic yarn, Lion Brand Pound of Love, to knit my first sweater.)
Scarves and accessories
Charity knitting projects
Less Ideal For:
Socks
Mittens
Hats worn in warm climates
Because acrylic traps heat, items worn close to the skin can feel overly warm.
Best Acrylic Yarns to Try
If you’re ready to give acrylic another chance, these yarns are worth a look:
Lion Brand Color Theory
A soft, modern acrylic designed with wearable color palettes in mind. Great for garments and accessories.
Berroco Vintage DK
A blend of acrylic, wool, and nylon that balances softness, durability, and easy care.
Knit Picks Brava
Durable, affordable, and available in multiple weights. A solid everyday yarn.
Scheepjes Scrumptious
A blend of acrylic and recycled polyester, combining sustainability with softness and strength.
Premier Yarns Everyday Anti-Pilling
Designed to resist pilling, making it a great long-term option for frequently used items.
Is Acrylic Yarn Worth It?
Acrylic yarn has come a long way.
It’s softer, more versatile, and more accessible than ever before. While it may not replace natural fibers for every project, it absolutely earns a place in a modern knitter’s stash.
Think of it as the practical, low-maintenance friend in your yarn lineup. Not always the star of the show, but reliably there when you need it.
Do you knit with acrylic yarn?
What’s your go-to acrylic yarn? Have you found one that completely changed your mind?
Drop your thoughts in the comments.
Given a choice between natural fibers like wool, cotton, and linen, or petrochemical based synthetics, I'll choose natural fibers every time. Natural fibers are endlessly renewable and biodegradable. Acrylic and her plastic cousins will inevitably end up in a landfill somewhere contributing to the glut of plastic pollution on the planet.