If you’ve ever wondered whether eco-friendly yarns can hold their own in your next knit or crochet project, you’re not alone. I got my hands on the yarns from Lion Brand’s Sustainable Stitching collection to see what the hype was about. Are they soft? Durable? Stitch-worthy? And most importantly, can they really compete with the tried-and-true favorites in our stashes? Let’s dive into the texture, color, performance, and all the eco goodness to find out if these sustainable yarns are actually worth adding to your next WIP.
Comparing stitch definition in sustainable yarns versus conventional yarns for detailed knit and crochet patterns
When it comes to stitch definition, most knitters and crocheters want their hard work to show up. Whether it’s crisp cables, delicate lace, or bold texture, the yarn you choose can make or break the look of your project. So do sustainable yarns, like those in Lion Brand’s Sustainable Stitching collection, hold up compared to the classics? Yes! The recycled cotton and polyester blends in this line offer a nice balance of softness and structure. This collection includes many different yarn blends and weights, so it's difficult to cover them all in one broad post/statement, but each of them definitely can hold their own for the types of yarns they yarn. For example, Re-Spun Thick & Quick can be compared to the LBY classic Wool-Ease Thick & Quick. Re-Spun packs more yardage into the ball, it's softer, and has a nice cohesive color palette. However, the softness also leads to a fuzziness and halo after using and wearing the yarn. Good in some instances and in others maybe you want the more structured look of Wool-Ease T&Q.
My personal favorite in the collection is Re-Make, a worsted weight 100% recycled polyester. Again, like Re-Spun T&Q, the yarn has a soft gentle halo. I LOVE IT! So yes, the stitches aren't as crisp as something like Wool-Ease or Basic Stitch Anti Pilling, but this yarn is extremely wearable. I designed my [very popular!] Biltmore Blanket cardigan in Re-Make yarn. I wear it A LOT!
The newest addition to the collection is Cotton Hemp, a crisp worsted weight blend of 70% Cotton and 30% Hemp. I honestly wasn't expecting to like this one, but I was wrong. First, the colors are beautiful. More importantly the yarn was a pleasure to crochet with. I decided to update my older Bayshore shawl pattern with this yarn and the result is perfect. Cotton Hemp created the perfect fabric for this loosely crocheted Summer shawl.
Overall? Definitely these are definitely stitch-worthy yarns, with a soft, earthy look that feels right at home in handmade pieces.
The eco impact: how Lion Brand’s sustainable yarns reduce waste and support conscious crafting
One of the coolest things about Lion Brand’s Sustainable Stitching collection is that it’s not just another yarn line—it’s part of a bigger movement toward mindful making. These yarns are made from recycled fibers like cotton scraps and plastic bottles, which means less waste ending up in landfills and more second chances for materials that would otherwise be tossed. For crafters who already care about slow fashion and handmade goods, it’s a natural fit. Plus, using eco-conscious yarn doesn’t mean sacrificing creativity or quality. You still get beautiful colorways and wearable textures, but with the bonus of knowing your project is helping the planet in a small but meaningful way. Whether you're whipping up dishcloths, cardigans, or cozy blankets, it's a great feeling to stitch with intention—especially when the materials themselves are part of the sustainability story.
Project ideas that pair well with eco-friendly yarns, from quick gifts to heirloom-quality pieces
Eco-friendly yarns, like those in Lion Brand’s Sustainable Stitching collection, are super versatile—perfect for both quick wins and longer, slow-stitch projects. If you're just dipping your toes in, try making reusable washcloths, market bags, or coasters from Re-Up yarn. These kinds of projects are great for testing the feel of the yarn without a huge time investment.
For giftable goodies, think cozy scarves, simple hats, or even quirky plant pot cozies. The textures in this yarn line have a soft, rustic vibe that works especially well for handmade presents with a personal touch. Bonus: your giftee gets something cute and eco-conscious, which is a total win-win. If you’re in the mood for something more ambitious, these sustainable yarns shine in larger projects like lightweight cardigans, baby blankets, or throw pillows. The relaxed stitch definition gives everything a cozy, lived-in feel—perfect for heirloom pieces you’ll love for years. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a slow-and-steady stitcher, there's a project for every pace and purpose.
Blending eco yarns with stash favorites: tips for mixing textures, colors, and fiber content
Blending eco-friendly yarns with your stash faves is 100% a good idea. The key is paying attention to texture and fiber content. Lion Brand’s Sustainable Stitching yarns have a slightly matte finish and a soft, cottony feel, which pairs nicely with other plant-based or muted yarns. If you’re combining with something slick or shiny, like bamboo or certain acrylics, just swatch it first to make sure the textures vibe well together. When it comes to color, eco yarns tend to lean earthy and subtle, so they’re great for grounding brighter hues or balancing out variegated yarns. Try using them as a base color in stripes or granny squares, or as a neutral contrast in a colorwork pattern. You’ll get the satisfaction of using up your stash and adding an eco-conscious element to your project. Just keep an eye on gauge—different fibers can stretch or shrink in unpredictable ways, so swatching is your best friend here. (Sorry!)
Ending Thoughts
So, after giving Lion Brand’s Sustainable Stitching collection a test run, I can confidently say these eco-friendly yarns definitely hold their own! While they might not have the crispness of some classic animal fibers, they make up for it with their soft, natural vibe and eco-conscious charm. Whether you're working on quick gifts or something more intricate, they’re versatile enough to add to your projects without compromising on quality. Plus, knowing you're using recycled materials makes every stitch feel that much better. So if you’re looking to try something new and sustainable, this yarn line is absolutely worth checking out! Happy stitching, friends!
