--- title: "Knitting Yarns for Custom Beanies & Balaclavas" description: "Acrylic, cotton, lambswool, cashmere, alpaca, mohair, recycled and blended yarns compared for custom knitted beanies, balaclavas and scarves." url: https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/knitting-yarns/ language: en-US updated: 2026-10-21T14:36:40+00:00 alternates: fr: https://mrbalaclava.com/fr/materiaux/fils-a-tricoter.md de: https://mrbalaclava.com/de/materialien/strickgarne.md es: https://mrbalaclava.com/es/materiales/hilos-de-tejer.md publisher: Mr Balaclava (https://mrbalaclava.com/) --- Material Library · Knitwear # Knitting Yarns A knitted beanie, balaclava or scarf is only as warm, soft and durable as the yarn it is knitted from. This page compares the yarns we offer, from everyday acrylic and wool blends to cashmere, alpaca and mohair, cotton for milder weather, and recycled yarns. Each yarn shows what is typical for it; the exact blend and colours for your order are confirmed with your quote. [Request a quote](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) Browse the fabrics Updated 23 October 2026 ![Hand holding a ball of fuzzy green mohair-style yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ml-yarn-mohair-fuzzy-ball-1024x684.webp) - **50 pcs** Minimum order - **14 days** Standard lead time - **OEKO-TEX®** Fabrics from certified mills - **ISO 9001** Certified (Eco Jersey Limited) - **Sedex** Member (Eco Jersey Limited) Yarns ## Yarns we knit with Open a yarn to see what is typical for it and what we confirm for your order. - ![Acrylic Yarn: royal-blue 100% acrylic knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/acrylic-yarn-royal-blue-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Acrylic Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/acrylic-yarn/) A synthetic yarn that looks and feels like wool: soft, light, warm and can be dyed in almost any colour. It keeps its shape, washes easily… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** High **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/acrylic-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Cotton Yarn: off-white combed cotton knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/cotton-yarn-off-white-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Cotton Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/cotton-yarn/) A soft, breathable natural yarn that is usually not itchy. It is cooler and less elastic than wool or acrylic, so it suits spring and autumn… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** Low [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/cotton-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Organic Cotton Yarn: natural undyed ecru organic cotton knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/organic-cotton-yarn-natural-undyed-ecru-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Organic Cotton Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/organic-cotton-yarn/) Cotton yarn spun from cotton grown under organic farming rules, without synthetic pesticides or fertilisers. It knits and feels like regular cotton; an organic claim on… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** Low [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/organic-cotton-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Lambswool Yarn: oatmeal beige lambswool knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/lambswool-yarn-oatmeal-beige-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Lambswool Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/lambswool-yarn/) Wool from the first shearing of young sheep, finer and softer than standard wool. It is warm, breathable and naturally elastic, and it handles moisture well,… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** Very high **Breathability** High **Stretch** High [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/lambswool-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Cashmere Yarn: camel fine cashmere knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/cashmere-yarn-camel-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Cashmere Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/cashmere-yarn/) A luxury yarn from the fine undercoat of cashmere goats: very soft, light and warm for its weight. It is delicate and pills more than wool,… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** Very high **Breathability** High **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/cashmere-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Alpaca Yarn: natural fawn-brown alpaca knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/alpaca-yarn-natural-fawn-brown-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Alpaca Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/alpaca-yarn/) Yarn from alpaca fleece: soft, smooth and very warm for its weight, with a slight halo. It contains virtually no lanolin and comes in many natural… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** Very high **Breathability** High **Stretch** Low [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/alpaca-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Mohair Yarn: dusty-pink mohair blend knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/mohair-yarn-dusty-pink-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Mohair Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mohair-yarn/) Yarn from the Angora goat, known for its lustre and fluffy halo. It is light and warm and gives beanies and scarves a soft, brushed look;… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** High **Breathability** High **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mohair-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Polyester Yarn: black spun polyester knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/polyester-yarn-black-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Polyester Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-yarn/) A strong synthetic yarn that keeps its colour, dries quickly and absorbs very little moisture. In knitwear it is used for sporty beanies and as a… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Recycled Polyester Yarn: light heather-grey recycled polyester knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/recycled-polyester-yarn-light-heather-grey-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Recycled Polyester Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-yarn/) Polyester yarn spun from recycled material, usually post-consumer PET bottles. It knits and performs much like virgin polyester; the recycled share, and any certificate, has to… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** Moderate **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Recycled Wool Yarn: grey melange recycled wool knitting yarn with small multicoloured fibre flecks on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/recycled-wool-yarn-grey-melange-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Recycled Wool Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-wool-yarn/) Yarn spun from wool fibre recovered from used garments and textile waste, usually with some new wool or synthetic fibre for strength. It keeps much of… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** High **Breathability** High **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-wool-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Viscose Yarn: emerald-green viscose knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/viscose-yarn-emerald-green-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Viscose Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/viscose-yarn/) A regenerated cellulose yarn with a smooth feel, soft drape and a slight sheen. It feels cool and breathable, which suits light knitted scarves and fashion… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** Low **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** Low [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/viscose-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Bamboo Viscose Yarn: soft sage-green bamboo viscose knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/bamboo-viscose-yarn-soft-sage-green-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Bamboo Viscose Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/bamboo-viscose-yarn/) Viscose made from bamboo pulp: a smooth, soft, cool yarn with a gentle sheen. It behaves like other viscose yarns and is labelled as viscose from… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** Low **Breathability** Very high **Stretch** Low [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/bamboo-viscose-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Chenille Yarn: burgundy chenille knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/chenille-yarn-burgundy-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Chenille Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/chenille-yarn/) A yarn built like a tiny velvet rope: short fibres are twisted between core threads so they stand out like a pile. It is very soft… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** High **Breathability** Moderate **Stretch** Low [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/chenille-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) - ![Wool Blend Yarn: forest-green wool blend knitting yarn on a plain grey surface](https://mrbalaclava.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/wool-blend-yarn-forest-green-close-up-768x512.webp) Knitting Yarns ### [Wool Blend Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/wool-blend-yarn/) Wool blended with acrylic or nylon: it keeps much of wool's warmth and natural feel while adding strength, easier care and a lower price. A practical… Knitted from yarnLight to heavy (varies) **Warmth** High **Breathability** High **Stretch** Moderate [Full specification](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/wool-blend-yarn/)[Get a quote in this fabric](https://mrbalaclava.com/contact-us/) Compare ## Knitting yarns compared Warmth, breathability and stretch are relative to the other materials in this library, not lab values. | Fabric | Construction | Weight class | Warmth | Breathability | Stretch | Moisture management | Typical products | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Acrylic Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/acrylic-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | High | Moderate | Moderate | Low | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves, Ski wear | | [Cotton Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/cotton-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | Moderate | Very high | Low | Low | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Organic Cotton Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/organic-cotton-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | Moderate | Very high | Low | Low | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Lambswool Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/lambswool-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | Very high | High | High | High | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Cashmere Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/cashmere-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | Very high | High | Moderate | High | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Alpaca Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/alpaca-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | Very high | High | Low | High | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Mohair Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/mohair-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | High | High | Moderate | High | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Polyester Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/polyester-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | High | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Recycled Polyester Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-polyester-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | High | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Recycled Wool Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/recycled-wool-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | High | High | Moderate | High | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Viscose Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/viscose-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | Low | Very high | Low | Moderate | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Bamboo Viscose Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/bamboo-viscose-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | Low | Very high | Low | High | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Chenille Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/chenille-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | High | Moderate | Low | Low | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves | | [Wool Blend Yarn](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric/wool-blend-yarn/) | Knitted from yarn | Light to heavy (varies) | High | High | Moderate | High | Balaclavas, Beanies, Scarves, Ski wear | Choosing a yarn ## Which yarn for which product? Start with the climate and the price point, then think about care and the story you want to tell. - **Everyday beanies and balaclavas** Acrylic and wool blend yarns are warm, easy to wash and can be dyed in almost any colour. They are the usual choice for team, event and retail beanies. - **Premium winter pieces** Lambswool, cashmere and alpaca feel softer and warmer and suit premium ranges. Blends with wool or nylon make them more durable and easier to knit. - **Spring, autumn and summer** Cotton, organic cotton and viscose yarns breathe well and feel cool. A rib knit gives cotton the stretch it lacks for a beanie that fits. - **A softer or greener story** Mohair and chenille give a fluffy or velvety look. Recycled polyester and recycled wool yarns lower the use of new fibre; the recycled share is documented by the spinner. Branding ## How a logo goes on a knit On knitwear, the logo is usually knitted in as a jacquard pattern, embroidered, or added as a woven label or a patch. Flat prints do not sit well on a knit. Fluffy yarns such as mohair, alpaca and chenille blur fine detail, so they work best with labels, patches or bold knitted-in designs. Products ## Where these yarns are used - [Custom beanies](https://mrbalaclava.com/beanies/) Custom beanies under your label: cuffed and logo, streetwear, pom-pom and winter, sports and jacquard beanies. From 50… - [Custom balaclavas](https://mrbalaclava.com/balaclavas/) Private-label balaclava and ski mask manufacturer in Sialkot, Pakistan. Knitted, fleece, mesh and sublimated styles from 50 pcs,… - [Custom scarves](https://mrbalaclava.com/scarves/) Custom scarves under your label: knitted, football, silk and printed scarves, bandanas, neckerchiefs and hijabs. From 50 pcs… - [Custom ski wear](https://mrbalaclava.com/ski-wear/) Custom ski jackets, pants, suits, fleece and base layers under your label, waterproof 5K–20K with taped seams. From… Journal ## Guides on knitwear - [Product Guides & Comparisons · 15 min readDifferent Types of Balaclavas: Styles, Materials and Uses ExplainedThe types of balaclavas explained: face openings, hinged and hooded styles, knitted vs cut-and-sew, materials, uses and fashion styles, with a quick guide.Read the guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/journal/different-types-of-balaclavas/) - [Materials & FabricsBalaclava Materials Compared: Acrylic, Merino, Cotton, Fleece, Polyester and MeshBalaclava materials compared: acrylic, merino, cotton yarns for knits; fleece, polyester/spandex and mesh for sewn styles, with uses, decoration and care.Read the guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/journal/balaclava-materials-compared/) - [Product Guides & Comparisons · 7 min readCustom Football Scarves: Sizes, Knits, MOQ and Timing for ClubsCustom football scarves explained: sizes, single vs double-layer jacquard, bar and printed fan scarves, crest rights, MOQ and lead times for clubs.Read the guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/journal/football-scarf-guide/) FAQ ## Knitting yarns: frequently asked questions **### Which yarn is warmest for a beanie?** Alpaca, cashmere and lambswool are usually the warmest for their weight. Acrylic and wool blends are warm enough for most winter beanies and are easier to care for. **### Is acrylic yarn a good choice for custom beanies?** Yes. Acrylic is soft, light, warm, colourfast and machine washable, and it can be dyed in almost any colour, which is why so many custom beanies are knitted from it. An anti-pilling acrylic keeps the surface neat for longer. **### Can you use recycled or organic yarns?** Yes, ask with your quote. The recycled or organic share, and any certificate such as GRS or GOTS, is confirmed only with the spinner's documents for your order. **### What is the minimum order for custom knitted beanies?** Orders start at 50 pieces per design. The standard production lead time is approximately 14 days after sample approval, and the confirmed schedule is agreed for each order. Material Library ## More fabric families and guides - [All fabrics in the Material Library](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/) - [Fleece Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fleece/) - [Cotton Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/cotton/) - [Merino Wool & Wool Blend Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/merino-wool-blends/) - [Polyester & Recycled Polyester Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/polyester-recycled-polyester/) - [Acrylic Knits & Yarns](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/acrylic/) - [Performance Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/performance-fabrics/) - [Shell & Waterproof Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/shell-fabrics/) - [Insulation & Linings](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/insulation-linings/) - [Cap & Hat Materials](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/cap-hat-materials/) - [Sock Yarns & Constructions](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/sock-yarns/) - [Scarf Fabrics](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/scarf-fabrics/) - [Waterproof & Breathability Ratings Explained](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/waterproof-breathability-ratings/) - [Fabric Weight & GSM Guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/fabric-weight-gsm-guide/) - [Textile Certifications Guide](https://mrbalaclava.com/materials/textile-certifications/)