The Yarn Over Hook fiber guide groups yarn into several major categories: synthetic, plant-based, animal/protein-based, novelty, and blends.

Synthetic yarns

Acrylic yarn

Why crocheters use it:

• Acrylic is soft, affordable, durable, widely available, and machine washable.

Things to consider:

• It is not very breathable and comes with environmental concerns.

Great for:

• Plushies, garments, and frequently used crochet items.

Nylon

Why crocheters use it:

• Nylon is lightweight and durable.

Things to consider:

• It is not breathable and also raises environmental concerns.

Great for:

• High-use garments like socks.

Plant-based yarns

Cotton yarn

Why crocheters use it:

• Cotton is durable, soft, and cool to wear.

Things to consider:

• Its minimal fuzz can make gaps in stitches more visible.

Great for:

• Almost anything. It is one of the most versatile yarns in crochet.

Linen

Why crocheters use it:

• Linen is durable, cool to wear, and softens over time.

Things to consider:

• It can feel rough on the hands while working with it.

Great for:

• Clothing and utility items like scrubbies.

Hemp

Why crocheters use it:

• Hemp is durable and eco-friendly.

Things to consider:

• It can also feel rough on the hands.

Great for:

• Clothing and utility items like scrubbies.

Bamboo

Why crocheters use it:

• Bamboo is soft, has a nice sheen, and drapes beautifully.

Things to consider:

• It can stretch a lot.

Great for:

• Clothing and moderately used items.

Animal-based / protein-based yarns

Wool

Why crocheters use it:

• Wool is warm, naturally anti-bacterial, compostable, and can be very soft depending on the type. Superwash options are often easier to care for.

Things to consider:

• It can be harder to wash, may feel scratchy for some people, and can raise allergy concerns.

Great for:

• Clothing, household textiles, and heirloom pieces.

Silk

Why crocheters use it:

• Silk is soft, light, and has a beautiful sheen.

Things to consider:

• It is slippery and may raise ethical concerns for some makers.

Great for:

• Cherished and gently used clothing items.

Mohair

Why crocheters use it:

• Mohair is soft, airy, and creates a unique halo effect without adding much weight.

Things to consider:

• It is difficult to frog and can make stitches hard to see.

Great for:

• Cherished and gently used items.

Novelty yarns

Eyelash yarn

• Adds a fuzzy effect with minimal bulk, but it is difficult to frog without damaging the yarn. Best for gently used items.

Chenille yarn

• Adds a plush, fuzzy effect and works up quickly, but can shed and make stitches hard to see. Ideal for plushies and blankets.

Textured yarn

• Adds texture to flat projects, though it may be harder to use in some patterns or unravel cleanly.

Effects yarn

• Sequined or beaded yarn can add sparkle and dimension, though it may add bulk or be harder to pull through stitches. Great for gently used items or decorative flair.

Blended yarns

Plant + synthetic blends

• These can balance the moisture-absorbing qualities of natural fibers with the durability or moisture-wicking qualities of synthetic fibers.

Animal/protein + synthetic blends

• These are often more affordable, more durable, softer, and less likely to felt than pure animal fibers.

Best for:

• Wearables and projects that need more durability.