What Is Acrylic and Synthetic Yarn and What Is It Made Of?

A Crafter’s Guide to Understanding Acrylic, Nylon, Rayon, and More

Walk into any yarn shop—or scroll through your favorite online store—and you’ll find an endless variety of yarns. Two of the most common categories are natural fibers (like wool or cotton) and synthetic fibers, such as acrylic.

Acrylic yarns are man-made fibers designed to mimic natural materials at a lower cost. Thanks to new technology, today’s acrylic yarns are softer, smoother, and more versatile than ever—making them a great choice for affordable, easy-care projects.

How Is Acrylic Yarn Made?

Acrylic yarn is created from a synthetic polymer called acrylonitrile, made using coal- and petroleum-based chemicals. The process involves dissolving the polymer and spinning it through tiny holes called spinnerets to form fine fibers. These fibers are stretched, washed, and twisted into yarn.

It’s a highly technical, chemical process—but it results in a durable, lightweight, and affordable fiber that’s widely used in knitting and crochet.

Other Common Synthetic and Semi-Synthetic Yarns

🧶 Nylon

A strong, stretchy synthetic fiber often blended with wool for socks or activewear.
Why use it: Adds elasticity and strength—especially in sock yarns.
Fun fact: “Bio-nylon” is a new, renewable version made from plant sugars instead of petroleum.

🌿 Rayon

A semi-synthetic fiber made from plant cellulose (like wood or bamboo). Rayon mimics silk or cotton, offering beautiful drape and shine.

🌱 Lyocell (Tencel)

A type of rayon made through an eco-friendlier process, using less-toxic solvents and water. It’s smooth, breathable, and biodegradable—making it one of the best sustainable synthetic options.

✨ Viscose

Another rayon variation, viscose was originally known as “artificial silk.” It’s prized for its silky drape and soft sheen.

What Is a Yarn Blend?

Blended yarns mix fibers—like merino wool and nylon, or acrylic and cotton—to combine their best traits. For example, a wool-nylon blend makes socks strong yet soft, while an acrylic-cotton mix is durable and easy to wash.

Why Choose Acrylic or Synthetic Yarn?

There are plenty of good reasons crafters reach for acrylic and synthetic yarns:

• Great for those with wool allergies

• Budget-friendly for large or donation projects

• Low-maintenance—machine washable and quick-drying

• Warm and lightweight for cozy garments

• Excellent grip for beginners learning to knit or crochet

The Most Eco-Friendly Synthetic Yarn

Traditional acrylic isn’t biodegradable and involves fossil fuels—but not all synthetics are equal. If you’re looking for greener options, choose:

• Lyocell (Tencel): Plant-based and low-impact

• Recycled acrylic or polyester: Reuses existing plastic waste

When possible, choose blended yarns—like cotton-lyocell or cotton-acrylic—to reduce environmental impact while keeping cost and durability in balance.

The Bottom Line

Acrylic and synthetic yarns have come a long way. They’re affordable, soft, and accessible—perfect for crafters who want flexibility without breaking the bank.

If you prefer natural fibers but love acrylic’s practicality, try blends like Cotton to the Core, Cotton Bliss, or Woolen Delights for a balance of softness, strength, and stitch definition.

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