Yarn is created all over the world, but some regions are better known than others. One such example is Yorkshire in Northern England. Sheep farming has long been associated with this area, and the cold rainy weather has required the wearing of warm, protective layers. When you next decide to begin work on a traditionally warm and wooly sweater, why not consider finding yarn produced in Yorkshire?

Perhaps the most famous yarn company from this part of the world is Rowan Yarns. Established in 1978, the enterprise originally offered yarn kits. Soon enough, however, Rowan expanded, developing its esteemed knitting magazine and showcasing the amazing talents of designers such as Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably, and Sarah Hatton. Currently, the company offers cotton, silk, and other fibers in addition to wool. Rowan yarns are easily available in local yarn shops all over the world, but it’s nice to browse their web pages to see what’s new at this long-established company.

Designer Louisa Harding has long been known for her bold use of color and romantic sensibilities. Her latest venture, Yarntelier, seeks to marry the chic of cashmere with the cachet of handknitting. Still in its infancy, the company currently offers two lines, Cashmere Lace and Cashmere Gilli, a DK-weight yarn. Both are composed of one hundred percent cashmere, priced fairly for such luxury fiber. One can also purchase patterns created by Harding especially for these yarns, as well as a few finished products.

In accordance with tradition, West Yorkshire Knitters still produces their yarns in-country, offering primarily wool and wool blends made from the coats of local sheep with exotic sounding names such as Bluefaced Leicester. No idea as to what that means? Turns out these breeds offer soft yet strong wool that spins easily and drapes beautifully when worn. Looking for something a bit more exotic? What about Wensleydale wool? Like the cheese made famous by Wallace and Gromit, this rare breed produces heritage quality fiber that takes dye beautifully. Or perhaps you dream of knitting a large, luxurious shawl? Perhaps some lace weight Shetland wool yarn will fit the bill. Yarn is sold wound into hanks, wrapped into balls, and organized into kits. In addition, the company offers single print patterns as well as pattern books.

Disclaimer: I am not associated with any of these companies, and have purchased products with my own funds.

Rowan Yarn, Huddersfield, Yorkshire, United Kingdom. https://knitrowan.com/en

West Yorkshire Spinners, Keighley, Yorkshire, United Kingdom. https://www.wyspinners.com/index.php?route=common/home

Yarntelier, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom. https://www.yarntelier.com/home