Last week we introduced BC Garn to you, and this week we'd like to go a bit more in depth on one of our favorite BC Garn yarns,
Tussah Tweed. Tussah Tweed uses 100% tussah silk, as opposed to mulberry silk which is what is most commonly used in yarns and textiles. Tussah silk comes from a wild moth (not a butterfly) called the
tussar moth, originally from southern China. The tussar moth is allowed to live in the wild, and has not been domesticated by humans. As a result, the silk they produce is of a more wild character.
The fibers tend to be shorter and vary in strength, and the natural color can vary from cream, to golden yellow, to pale brown. Tussah silk is gathered after the moth has emerged from the cocoon, so some people do refer to it as 'cruelty-free' silk, but as it is still produced from a living creature, some other people do not view it that way. It is up to the individual to decide what is best for their conscience. Tussah silk for Tussah Tweed is from China, and the yarn is spun in Italy. Tussah Tweed is a highly versatile yarn, perfect for light wraps, loose and flowing sweaters and cardigans, or mixing with another yarn, like a silk mohair, to add texture and color.
TUSSAH TWEED SPECIFICATIONS 100% tussah silk
273 yards (250 meters) / 50 gm hank
US 1-3 (2.25-3 mm)
24 sts x 33 rows = 4” (10 cm)
This spring we teamed up with Knit Simple Magazine to publish a free pattern featuring BC Garn Tussah Tweed.
SPECIFICATIONS
Yarn: BC Garn Tussah Tweed (100% tussah silk; 273 yds/50 gm skein): tt02, 2 skeins.
Gauge: 19 sts + 23 rows = 4” (10 cm) on US 7 (4.5 mm) needles, after blocking.
Needles: 1 – 24” (60 cm) US 7 (4.5 mm) circular.
Size: Variable (see Worthy of Note).
Skills: Knitting, purling, increasing, decreasing.
Visit the pattern page on Ravelry and visit Knit Simple Magazine to download this free pattern for Tussah Tweed! Looking for a BC Garn retailer? Check our stockist page to find a Local Yarn Store near you.
