Knitwear Notes Answered

Itch is mostly mechanical. Coarser fibres, roughly above 25 microns, are stiff enough to press on nerve endings rather than bending away. Finer merino, a cashmere blend or a smooth cotton or silk base layer reduces the sensation. True wool allergy is uncommon; persistent reactions are worth discussing with a doctor. See fibres.

Friction frees short fibres, which roll into pills. Some early pilling is normal and slows once loose fibres are removed with a comb. Heavy, continuous pilling usually indicates short fibre lengths or loosely spun yarn.

Felting cannot be undone, because the fibre scales have locked together. Mild tightening may ease if you soak the garment in cool water with a little hair conditioner, then gently stretch it to shape while drying flat. Results vary.

Fold it. Hanging lets gravity stretch the shoulders and lengthen the body. If you must hang a fine knit briefly, drape it over the bar of a hanger rather than using the shoulders.

Animal-fibre mid-layers often need washing only every several wears if aired between wears. Base layers worn against skin need washing more often. Always follow the care label. More in knit care.

Not always. Chunky knits hold more air but let wind pass between the stitches. Outdoors, a fine sweater under a windproof coat can be warmer. See stitches.

Superwash wool has been treated so its scales no longer lock together, which allows gentle machine washing when the label says so. It typically feels slightly smoother and less lofty than untreated wool.

Store garments clean, in breathable cotton bags or sealed boxes, and move them regularly. Cedar or lavender may deter adult moths but will not stop larvae already present.

Two single strands are twisted together into one yarn. Two-ply yarn is generally more balanced and durable than single-ply, but fibre length and knitting gauge matter just as much to how the sweater wears.