As the modern world moves further toward ecologically-friendly products in every area, there is more information about yarn that fits these criteria being put out there every day. It is crucial for you, as a business owner, to learn as much as possible about this new opening in the yarn business.

As you strive to locate more information on yarn that is produced in a way that's healthy for both humanity and the environment, as well as suppliers and manufactures for those yarns, follow these steps:

1. Consider yarn derived from slightly unusual sources that is still luxurious-feeling and highly functional, such as bamboo.

2. Look for organic versions of classic standbys, such as cotton yarn, or for animal products like wool yarn that is produced in an animal-friendly manner.

3. Try discount outlets and warehouses for good deals on these generally more expensive options.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look for suppliers of knitting yarn made from alternative and sustainable fibers

There are now numerous online directories, suppliers and manufacturers that focus on making and selling yarn that is kinder to the environment and yet is just as good looking and functional as traditional materials.

I recommend: Yarndex is an online yarn directory that gives info about yarn of all types, including those made of eco-friendly fibers such as bamboo and hemp. Yarndex allows you to search their massive directory for yarns by fiber content, as well as by yarn brands, weight, texture and color. The Wool Peddler is another company that supplies alternative yarns, like hemp, nettle and recycled silk yarn.

Connect with suppliers of organic cotton yarn and other classic yet sustainably produced materials

Supply your clients with the best products and materials for their knitting yarn projects by providing them with natural and earth-friendly options, like organic cotton, linen and hemp yarn.

I recommend: The Village Sheep is a website that sells yarn in a wide variety of natural and blended fibers, including organic and naturally colored cotton yarn and linen yarn, as well as more unusual animal-based fibers like camel and alpaca. YarnCountry offers a small selection of organic cotton yarn at reasonable prices. Additionally, Paivatar Yarns & Design is a site that sells handmade, limited edition organic cotton, wool and naturally dyed hemp yarns if you're looking for something truly special to please choosy customers.

Look for good deals on normally more expensive eco-friendly materials from discount yarn suppliers

While they may not offer as large a selection as specialty suppliers, it is possible to find natural and organic yarns at large online wholesalers and discount yarn sellers at better prices.

I recommend: Many mass suppliers, like Knit Picks and YarnMarket, that offer a wide variety of traditional materials also offer a smaller assortment of yarns made from natural plant and animal fibers and recycled silks.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Use your influence as a business owner to promote the use of quality, ecologically responsible yarn and yarn products by your customers. If you supply great products, whatever they're sourced from, your customers will buy them, and you can take advantage of the opportunity to inform them about why you've chosen these particular materials and suppliers.
• •  If your yarn business is not focused solely on providing natural and/or organic knitting materials, start by offering a small selection and environmentally responsible yarn information alongside more traditional knitting yarn and supplies, and let your customers make the choice for themselves.