Knitch Magazine

Yarn Name: Filatura Di Crosa Zara Chine
Review Date: August 2, 2011
Date Introduced to Market: Fall 2008

The Look

Is yarn like fine wine? The way some of us age it in our stash might cause outsiders to think so. Few consumers can distinguish mixed varietal from premium wine in those notorious blind taste tests where wine from Iowa is rated “better” than aged French wine. Likewise, many knitters might not be able to distinguish one wool fiber from another without help from the label, unless that fiber is merino. Known for its luxurious softness and smoothness, merino is a favorite of many knitters. Zara Chiné, from Filatura Di Crosa, is a luxurious extra fine merino yarn that is sure to impress. One touch of this smooth, firmly plied yarn will tell you it is something special. Firmly spun of 6 plies of superwash merino into a lightweight (DK) and easy care machine washable yarn, Zara Chiné is a champion. Zara Chiné is available in a wide range of overdyed heathered colors that coordinate with Zara solid shades for an exciting range of knitting possibilities. This incredibly versatile yarn can be used for any knitting project from accessories to sweaters, cardigans, shawls, wraps and afghans. Use it for high fashion women’s wear, toasty scarves and mitten sets, or classic men’s sweaters.

The Feel

Premium yarns are notable for squeezable softness, springy bounce and smooth surface; Zara Chiné has it all. It’s not quite cashmere, but rates #9 on the softness scale.

Softness Scale

The Patterns

Filatura Di Crosa offers a complete range of extraordinary patterns for Zara Chiné and its fraternal twin, Zara. There are two editions of the Zara Family Collection, each filled with stylishly sophisticated patterns using Zara Chiné and Zara. The collection comprises coats, jackets, cardigans, pullovers, wraps and accessories for men and women.

Color Range

Zara Chine is currently available in a range of 21 classic over-dyed colors. These rich colors blend beautifully with the amazing range of 57 colors in Zara giving knitters a complete palette in lightweight DK yarn.

Working It

Knitting with Zara Chiné is pure pleasure. The recommended gauge of 23 stitches over 4 inches allows persnickety detailing and fitted shaping. The firm twist yields to a smooth lustrous finish for stockinette and plain knitting. High elasticity creates clear-cut stitch detail, making it a good choice for textured knits, fitted garments, and ribbing. Zara Chiné superwash merino will deliver outstanding results in anything from smooth form fitted shells to cabled jackets.

What I’d Like to Make with It

Yarn this beautiful will look equally good in a simple stockinette sweater or in complex cables. Zara Chiné is suitable for any lightweight gauge project. Beginning knitters who need to focus on following pattern directions and shaping can knit stunning garments in simple stockinette with this lovely yarn.

Knitting Outside the Box

Zara Chine would be terrific for accessories like gloves, scarves and hats that require snug ribbed borders.

Blocking It

Lay flat to dry. Do not dry in automatic dryer.

Washing It

Superwash Zara Chiné is machine washable in cool water using a gentle cycle.

Wearability

Because Zara Chiné is highly elastic and knit to a fairly small gauge, knitwear should retain its shape even after frequent wearing. Tightly twisted yarn like Zara Chiné keeps the ends of the fiber under control, leaving few ends to form ugly pills. Some people calculate the true cost of their clothing by dividing the cost by the number of times the garment is worn. Seldom worn garments cost more per wearing than a favorite sweater that goes out every day. Zara Chiné is rugged enough for daily wear.

Overall Recommendation:

Premium yarns like Zara Chiné are a joy to knit and satisfying to wear. If you aren’t sure, try it with a pair of fingerless gloves or a scarf. It is likely that you, too, will rate this yarn #9.