If you’re a knitting enthusiast or just starting out in the world of yarn, you’ve probably wondered: what’s the difference between carded and combed yarn?
Both are popular in the textile industry, but they have unique characteristics that make them ideal for different projects.
In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about carded yarn and combed yarn, from their manufacturing processes to their most common uses.
What is Carded Yarn?
Carded yarn is produced through a process called carding, which involves aligning fibers in an irregular manner.
This method does not separate long fibers from short ones, resulting in a yarn with a soft, fluffy, and warm texture.
Carded yarn has an irregular texture that gives it a rustic and natural look. They are ideal for projects that require warmth and a soft touch, such as scarves, blankets or sweaters. However, because it contains shorter fibers, it can be less durable than combed yarn.
At Essentials, we offer carded yarn in our Stock Service section. For example, our Carded ANDES TWEED Yarn is perfect for creating warm and cozy garments, while the Carded PUKYU Yarn offers unmatched softness for delicate projects.
What is Combed Yarn?
Combed yarn is produced through a more complex process. After carding, the fibers are carefully combed to remove shorter fibers and align the longer ones uniformly. This results in a smoother, stronger, and less fuzzy yarn.
The uniform texture of combed yarn makes it perfect for elegant and durable garments, such as dresses, shirts, or suits. Additionally, its greater strength makes it an excellent choice for projects that require precision, like amigurumi or socks.
In our Stock Service collection, you’ll find options like the MUHU Yarn, ideal for lightweight and fresh garments.
Key Differences Between Carded and Combed Yarn
To summarize, here are the main differences between the two types of yarn:
| Characteristic | Carded Yarns | Combed Yarns |
| Texture | Irregular, soft, and fluffy | Uniform, smooth and refined |
| Strength | Less durable | More durable and long-lasting |
| Volume | More voluminous | Less voluminous |
| Common use | Warm and rustic garments | Elegant and durable garments |
How to Choose Between Carded and Combed Yarn?
The choice between carded yarn and combed yarn depends on the project you have in mind. If you’re looking for a warm, soft, and textured finish, ideal for winter garments or rustic projects, carded yarn is your best option.
On the other hand, if you need a stronger, smoother, and more refined yarn, perfect for elegant garments or projects that require precision, combed yarn will be your ally.
A Matter of Price
When choosing between combed and carded yarn, price is an important factor to consider. The manufacturing process for combed yarn is more complex, as it requires additional steps like combing and removing short fibers.
This makes combed yarn generally more expensive than carded yarn.
However, investing in combed yarn translates to superior quality. Its more uniform and durable structure ensures that garments last longer and maintain their impeccable appearance over time. For example, at Essentials, our Kid Silk Yarn is a premium option that combines softness and durability, ideal for projects seeking a refined finish.
On the other hand, carded yarn is an excellent choice if you’re on a tighter budget. Its production process is simpler, making it more affordable without sacrificing warmth and softness.
Additionally, the type of fiber also influences the price. Fibers like Pima cotton, with longer and higher-quality strands, are ideal for combing, while regular cotton, with shorter fibers, is often used for carded yarn.
In the case of premium fibers like cashmere, their fine and short nature makes them more commonly found in carded versions, as their fluffy texture is highly valued.
In summary, if you’re looking for quality and durability, combed yarn is the best option. But if you prioritize warmth and a more accessible budget, carded yarn is an excellent alternative. At Essentials, we offer options for all tastes and needs in our Stock Service.
