Knitch Magazine

Yarn Name: Classic Elite Verde Collection Sprout
Review Date: 7/21/2009
Date Introduced to Market: Spring 2009

Brand: Classic Elite Yarns
Manufacturer:
Made In: Peru
Date Released: Spring 2009
Yardage: 109 yds.
Weight: 100 grams
Yarn Weight: Bulky
Fiber Content: 100% Organic Cotton
Texture: Gimp
Gauge (st./4 in.): 14 sts / 4 inches
Needle Size(s): US 10 (6mm)
Availability: Currently available
MSRP: $11.50
Care: Machine wash on gentle cycle. Partially machine dry on low setting: dry flat to complete.

sprout pattern

Yarnmarket has several patterns available for Sprout, Classic Elite’s new organic bulky cotton yarn, including free patterns for a child’s sweater/hat set and a sweet dreams baby blanket. This plush yarn knits up quickly with great stitch definition perfect for any purpose.

The Look

sproutSprout is a gimp yarn, made by wrapping a thin thread around gently spun strands of cotton roving. The result is a thick chunky yarn that is soft and pliable. Light and shadow are reflected on the nubby surface producing a deep, rich color. Sprout is packaged in 100 gram hanks banded by a simple green on white label. The sparse label trumpets 100% organic cotton “with nature in mind.” The “green” label is environmentally friendly, too. It is printed on 100% recycled paper, endorsed by the Forest Stewardship Council (“because forests matter”).

The Feel

Unlike some twisted cotton yarns that can be stringy, hard and rigid, Sprout is super soft. This organic Peruvian cotton yarn is lofty, soft and light. Untwist the strands to find a core of soft cotton filaments wound together by a fine cotton thread; this is what gives Sprout its wavy surface texture.

Tangüis cotton is a highly regarded fiber that is grown in central Peru. Its success as an export led Peruvians to call it “Oro Blanco” (White Gold). In the early 1900’s, Peru’s cotton crop was devastated by a fungus plague that nearly wiped out one of Peru’s main exports. Fermín Tangüis developed a disease resistant seed and is credited with saving Peru’s cotton industry. Tangüis cotton produces a thick strong fiber, prized for its exceptional softness and brilliant luster. Sprout capitalizes on these properties, turning the raw material into a stunning yarn. It rates a “9” on the softness scale.

The Patterns

Classic Elite supports this new yarn with a collection of patterns for women’s cardigans, lacy tops, and baby items. Free patterns are available for a deeply textured Baby Blanket and a sweet baby’s pullover and hat set. Those who live in warmer climates can freely substitute Sprout for chunky yarns in sweaters, jackets or other garments for men, women and children.

Color Range

Sprout is produced in twelve vivid colors. Knitters will want to use this versatile yarn for all types of projects, and the range of colors creates many possibilities. These colors shimmer and dance.

sprout colorssprout colorssprout colors

Working It

sproutSprout is a chunky yarn that knits up at 3 ½ stitches per inch on size 10 needles. Stockinette stitch has a slightly nubby surface, and garter stitch has a deeply furrowed squeezable texture. The fabric remains soft and pliable with good elasticity. Even so, the stitches are well defined, making this yarn an excellent choice to show off a fancy lace insert or a few cables. Despite working this bulky yarn on thicker needles, there is little or no hand strain because Sprout is soft and pliable. You can knit at a relaxed and for longer periods without suffering hand strain.

What I’d Like to Make with It

Blocking It

Dry flat or partially dry on low setting. Lay flat to complete drying. Avoid over-drying or high heat to prevent shrinking your handiwork.

Washing It

To the delight of every busy person, Sprout is machine washable. Use a short gentle cycle in cold water for best results.

Wearability

Sprout has excellent body and stitch definition. It keeps its shape and maintains a fresh, new appearance even after washing. Some cottons shed fibers with wear and use, but Sprout did not. It remained exceptionally soft, durable and resistant to pilling. You can expect your knitting to look as good as when it came off the needles for a long time to come.

Overall Recommendation

This organic cotton yarn is a definite “10” – soft, luxurious and resilient.

Where to buy Classic Elite Verde Collection Sprout yarn: Yarnmarket.com