You can also use material.1 to follow other knitting patterns. In that case, keep in mind that your result may differ from what's written in a pattern designed for a different yarn with different properties, even if you use the same needle size and tension.
We strongly recommend knitting a test swatch, washing and blocking it, and comparing it to the pattern's gauge before you start your project.
On 4 mm needles, our tests showed around 10% growth in length after wet blocking. Results may vary with stitch, gauge, garment weight, and handling.
Yarn
One skein is 50 g / 110 m, sitting between DK and worsted weight. We recommend 3.5–4.0 mm needles, depending on your project and tension. Actual yardage may vary slightly depending on humidity and conditions. *
Gauge
Measured in stockinette stitch on 4 mm needles, before blocking.
21 sts x 31 rows / 10 cm
After blocking, the fabric expands. Expect approximately 19 sts x 29 rows / 10 cm when wet-blocked and dried flat.
How many skeins do I need?
The following estimates are for a classic drop-shoulder or fitted sweater. Other silhouettes may require more or less.
S (bust ~88 cm) — 8 skeins
M (bust ~98 cm) — 9 skeins
L (bust ~108 cm) — 10 skeins
XL (bust ~120 cm) — 10 skeins
Blocking
Blocking is strongly recommended.
Steam blocking:
The easiest option. The garment relaxes gradually and may widen slightly with wear over time.
Wet blocking:
Brewed Protein™ fiber gives material.1 its exceptional softness and relaxed character. When wet, the fabric becomes more fluid and may stretch more easily. Superfine NATIVA™ Merino wool brings structure to the blend, but the garment should still be handled with care.
Support its full weight, and do not pull, twist, or wring it. Reshape gently and dry flat. Wet blocking may permanently change the finished dimensions, so always wash and block your swatch before starting a project.
If your garment stretches more than intended, place it in a mesh laundry bag and use a spin-only cycle without water at 400 to 600 rpm. Reshape gently and dry flat.
When wet blocking, the water may pick up a little color. This is normal.
Care
Do not hang on hangers, as this will stretch the garment out of shape. Fold and store flat.
material.1 is naturally odor-resistant. Airing the garment between wears can help reduce the need for washing.
For small marks, spot treat rather than washing the whole garment.
If washing is necessary, fill a sink or bucket with lukewarm water, comfortable to the touch but not hot. Add a small amount of wool wash or a gentle shampoo. Let the piece soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
To remove water, fold gently and press. Never twist. Roll the piece in a dry towel and press again to absorb excess moisture. Optionally, place the garment in a mesh laundry bag and use a spin-only cycle without water at 400 to 600 rpm to remove excess water. Dry flat on a towel, replacing it after a few hours if needed.
The Superfine NATIVA™ Merino wool used in material.1 is not superwash. We don't coat the fiber in chemicals or strip its natural surface. That means it needs gentle care, but it also means the wool stays exactly as it was grown: soft, breathable, and biodegradable.
*material.1 contains a fiber that has never existed before. These specifications are based on our initial testing and will be updated as we learn more. Your feedback is welcome.