Big Twist Yarn: Complete Guide to Joann's Exclusive Value & Premium Lines

Finding affordable yarn that doesn’t sacrifice quality feels like winning the crafting lottery. Big Twist Yarn was Joann’s exclusive house brand that delivered exactly that—budget-friendly options that kept creative projects rolling without emptying wallets. While Joann stores have closed, you can still find Big Twist yarn through online retailers like Amazon and other craft supply websites.

Whether you’re knitting cozy blankets, crocheting adorable amigurumi, or weaving colorful home décor, Big Twist offers diverse options that match both your vision and your budget. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this crafter-favorite brand and where to find it today.

What is Big Twist Yarn? Joann's Signature Brand Explained

Big Twist Yarn was Joann’s exclusive house brand, designed specifically for knitters, crocheters, and fiber artists who wanted quality materials at accessible prices. Originally available only at Joann stores and through the Big Twist yarn website, this acrylic yarn line built a loyal following among crafters nationwide. Now that Joann has closed, crafters can find Big Twist yarn through Amazon and other online craft retailers.

Exclusive to Joann (Now Available Online)

Joann controlled the entire production and distribution process for Big Twist, working directly with manufacturers to create yarn that met specific quality standards while keeping costs down. The Joann Big Twist yarn selection included everything from basic worsted weight yarn options to specialty blends like chenille yarn and eco-friendly alternatives. This range let crafters tackle any project without switching brands constantly.

Today, you’ll find Big Twist yarn available through Amazon and various online marketplaces. The same quality yarn that made it popular at Joann stores continues to serve crafters through these online channels. Stock up on your favorite colors and weights while they’re available.

Made for Crafters, by Crafters

Big Twist wasn’t created in a vacuum Joann developed these yarns based on direct feedback from their crafting community. They listened to what knitters and crocheters actually wanted: soft yarn that’s easy to work with, vibrant yarn colors that pop in finished projects, machine washable yarn for practical items, and affordable price points that allow for big projects without financial stress.

The result is a yarn line that understands real-world crafting needs. Big Twist offers beginner-friendly yarn that doesn’t split or fray easily, making it perfect for those just learning to crochet or knit. At the same time, experienced crafters appreciate the reliable stitch definition and consistent quality across skeins.

Quality vs. Price Positioning

Big Twist sits in the sweet spot between ultra budget options and premium luxury yarns. It costs less than name brands like Caron Simply Soft or Red Heart Super Saver, but delivers comparable performance for knitting and crocheting projects. Think of it as the answer to: “Can I get name-brand quality without the name-brand price?”

The answer is yes. While you might pay $3-4 for a skein of Red Heart or Caron, Big Twist Value Yarn typically runs $2-3 per skein online. That difference adds up quickly when you’re buying 10-15 skeins for a blanket project or multiple colors for amigurumi toys.

Big Twist Yarn Line Breakdown: Every Collection Compared

Big Twist isn’t just one yarn it’s an entire family of products designed for different needs. Here’s the complete breakdown of what you’ll find under the Big Twist label and where to buy Big Twist yarn online today.

Big Twist Value Yarn

The flagship product in the Big Twist lineup, Value Yarn is exactly what it sounds like: incredible value. This worsted weight yarn comes in 6-ounce skeins with approximately 312 yards each. That’s generous yardage per skein that goes far in blankets, afghans, and other large projects.

Best Projects: Big Twist Value works beautifully for blankets and afghans (the most popular use), practice projects for beginners, amigurumi and toys, scarves and hats, and home décor items like pillow covers and pot holders. The thick yarn structure makes it perfect for quick project yarn needs where you want satisfying results fast.

Color Range: Big Twist Value boasts 80+ colors, from neutral yarns like soft grays and warm tans to bold colors that make statements. You’ll find everything from basic black and white to vibrant reds, blues, and greens plus pastel yarn options for baby projects. The variegated yarn and ombre yarn selections add visual interest to simple stitch patterns without extra work.

The acrylic yarn composition makes Value Yarn incredibly durable yarn for everyday use. It’s machine washable yarn, colorfast yarn, and resists pilling even after dozens of wash cycles. For family projects, kids’ projects, or charity crafting, you can’t beat the combination of affordability and longevity in this functional yarn.

Big Twist Premium Yarn

When you want something softer than Value but still affordable, Premium steps up. This upgraded line uses a finer acrylic blend that creates a smoother, more luxurious feel against the skin—it’s the Big Twist answer to popular brands like Caron Simply Soft and costs noticeably less when you buy Big Twist yarn online.

Premium Yarn works beautifully for wearable items like scarves, shawls, ponchos, and wrist warmers where the yarn touches skin directly. The enhanced softness means no scratchy feeling, even for sensitive skin, giving you that cozy yarn experience. Many crafters describe it as having a “cushy feel” that’s perfect for cozy and snuggly yarn projects.

Price Comparison: Big Twist Premium typically costs $3-4 per skein online, while Caron Simply Soft runs $4-6 per skein—that’s 20-40% savings depending on where you shop. The performance is nearly identical with both offering excellent stitch definition, smooth yarn texture, and easy care yarn instructions. You’ll save money with Premium while getting similar results in your finished projects.

Big Twist Living Yarn

Sustainability meets affordability in Big Twist Living Yarn. This eco-friendly yarn contains recycled content, making it a conscious choice for environmentally aware crafters who want sustainable yarn options. If you care about reducing waste while still enjoying your hobby, Living Yarn deserves a close look as recycled yarn that performs.

Eco-Friendly Materials: Living Yarn incorporates recycled polyester and other reclaimed fibers. The exact blend varies, but typically includes 30-50% recycled content yarn. This means you’re giving new life to materials that might otherwise end up in landfills while still getting quality blended yarn performance.

Sustainability Features: Big Twist Living offers reduced environmental impact compared to virgin materials, lower carbon footprint in production, and maintains quality standards of non-recycled yarn. The eco-friendly yarn line continues to grow with new colors added to the sustainable crafting options available online through Amazon and other retailers.

Performance Notes: Some crafters worry that recycled yarn won’t perform as well as traditional options. Good news: Big Twist Living Yarn works just like regular acrylic with the same soft yarn characteristics and lightweight yarn feel. It holds up to washing, maintains vibrant colors, and gives you anti-pilling yarn quality. You’re not sacrificing quality for sustainability—you’re getting both in this durable yarn option.

Big Twist Cotton

For projects that need breathability and a different texture, Big Twist offers 100% cotton yarn options. Cotton yarn behaves differently than acrylic—it’s less stretchy, more structured, and perfect for items that benefit from firmness like dishcloths and summer garments.

Comparison to Brand-Name Cotton: Big Twist Cotton competes directly with popular brands like Lily Sugar’n Cream in both price and performance. Big Twist typically costs $2.50-3.50 per skein online while Lily Sugar’n Cream runs $3-4.50 per skein. Both offer comparable smoothness and colorfast properties that keep your projects looking fresh.

Best Projects: Cotton yarn shines in dishcloths and kitchen items where absorbency matters, summer garments that need to breathe, placemats and pot holders for the kitchen, and baby blankets where you want soft and smooth texture. The Big Twist cotton options give you natural fiber benefits without the premium price tag.

Big Twist Bulky & Super Bulky

When you need quick project yarn that works up fast, Big Twist bulky yarn and super bulky yarn deliver. These thick yarn options use larger needles and hooks, creating substantial fabric in less time. Perfect for chunky blankets, oversized scarves, and cozy home décor items that make impressive gifts.

Quick Project Options: Bulky yarn (Category 5) and super bulky yarn (Category 6) are ideal for blanket-specific lines where you want warmth without spending months on a project. The thick-and-thin yarn texture adds visual interest while the plush yarn feel creates cozy results. Many crafters love these weights for last-minute gifts or when you need crafting inspiration that delivers fast satisfaction.

Blanket-Specific Lines: Big Twist offers jumbo skein options in bulky weights specifically designed for afghan projects. These larger skeins reduce the number of color changes and joins you’ll need, making blanket construction smoother. Check Amazon for bulk discount yarn deals when stocking up for large projects.

Big Twist Yarn Line Comparison Table

Yarn Line	Weight	Yardage	Typical Price	Best For	Key Features
Big Twist Value	Worsted (4)	312 yds/6 oz	$2-3	Blankets, afghans, practice projects	80+ colors, machine washable, anti-pilling
Big Twist Premium	Worsted (4)	280 yds/5 oz	$3-4	Wearables, soft accessories	Enhanced softness, comparable to Simply Soft
Big Twist Living	Worsted (4)	290 yds/5.8 oz	$3-4	Eco-conscious projects	30-50% recycled content, sustainable
Big Twist Cotton	Worsted (4)	180 yds/4 oz	$2.50-3.50	Dishcloths, summer items	100% cotton, breathable, absorbent
Big Twist Bulky	Bulky (5)	140 yds/5 oz	$3-5	Quick blankets, chunky scarves	Fast projects, thick texture
Big Twist Super Bulky	Super Bulky (6)	106 yds/6 oz	$4-6	Ultra-fast projects, statement pieces	Extra thick, dramatic texture

Big Twist vs. Name Brand Yarn: Head-to-Head Comparisons

Understanding how Big Twist stacks up against popular name brands helps you make smart buying decisions. Let’s compare performance, price, and overall value across the most common yarn alternatives crafters consider.

Big Twist Value vs. Red Heart Super Saver

Red Heart Super Saver is the gold standard for budget acrylic yarn, so how does Big Twist Value compare? In terms of performance vs price, both offer excellent durability and machine washability. Both come in extensive color ranges and similar yardage per skein. The main difference is texture and availability.

Red Heart Super Saver has a slightly firmer feel, while Big Twist Value tends to be a bit softer and more pliable right out of the package. For stitch definition, both perform equally well in colorwork and textured patterns. Red Heart is more widely available through multiple retailers, while Big Twist requires hunting through Amazon or online craft stores.

Price Comparison: Red Heart Super Saver typically runs $3-4 per skein, while Big Twist Value costs $2-3 per skein online. For a 10-skein blanket project, you’ll save $10-15 choosing Big Twist—money that adds up quickly for avid crocheters and expert knitters working on multiple projects.

Big Twist Premium vs. Caron Simply Soft

This is where Big Twist really shines as a yarn alternative. Caron Simply Soft is beloved for its luxurious texture and smooth feel, but Big Twist Premium offers remarkably similar characteristics at lower cost. Both are soft yarn options that work beautifully for garments worn against skin.

Performance Comparison: Both yarns offer excellent drape for wearable projects, minimal splitting during knitting or crochet, vibrant project ideas through extensive color palettes, and machine washable convenience. Many crafters honestly can’t tell the difference in finished projects between Premium and Simply Soft.

The Simply Soft Yarn Comparison: Caron Simply Soft costs $4-6 per skein depending on where you shop. Big Twist Premium runs $3-4 per skein online. For a sweater requiring 8-10 skeins, you’re looking at $8-20 in savings. That’s enough for another project or better quality needles and hooks.

Big Twist Cotton vs. Lily Sugar'n Cream

When you need cotton yarn for dishcloths or summer projects, these two brands dominate the budget-friendly category. Lily Sugar’n Cream has been around forever and earned its reputation for quality. Big Twist Cotton holds its own as a worthy competitor.

Texture & Performance: Both offer the characteristic smoothness of quality cotton yarn. Both maintain their shape through repeated washing. Both resist fading and keep colors vibrant. The main differences are subtle—some crafters prefer Lily’s slightly softer initial feel, while others like Big Twist’s firmer structure for items needing more body.

Value Breakdown: Lily Sugar’n Cream: $3-4.50 per skein. Big Twist Cotton: $2.50-3.50 per skein. For kitchen textile projects where you might need 4-6 skeins for a set of dishcloths, the savings with Big Twist add up to $4-6—enough for extra skeins or coordinating colors.

Name Brand Yarn Performance & Price Comparison Table

Feature	Big Twist Value	Red Heart Super Saver	Big Twist Premium	Caron Simply Soft	Big Twist Cotton	Lily Sugar'n Cream
Price per Skein	$2-3	$3-4	$3-4	$4-6	$2.50-3.50	$3-4.50
Softness	Soft	Medium	Very Soft	Very Soft	Medium	Medium-Soft
Durability	Excellent	Excellent	Very Good	Very Good	Excellent	Excellent
Color Range	80+ colors	100+ colors	50+ colors	80+ colors	40+ colors	60+ colors
Best For	Blankets, practice	All-purpose	Wearables	Wearables	Kitchen items	Kitchen items
Machine Wash	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Value Rating	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐

Best Projects for Big Twist Yarn

Big Twist yarn’s versatility makes it suitable for countless DIY projects. Here are the most popular uses where this yarn truly shines, from quick weekend makes to long-term heirloom pieces.

Blankets & Afghans (Most Popular)

Blankets represent the #1 use for Big Twist yarn among crafters. The combination of generous yardage, affordable pricing, and durable performance makes it perfect for these larger projects. Whether you’re making a simple throw for your couch or an intricate granny square afghan, Big Twist delivers.

Yardage Estimates: A baby blanket (30×36 inches) needs about 900-1,200 yards. A lap blanket (36×48 inches) requires 1,200-1,600 yards. A full throw blanket (50×60 inches) takes 1,800-2,400 yards. With Big Twist Value offering 312 yards per skein, you can estimate your needs and budget accordingly.

Popular Blanket Styles: Try simple single crochet for chunky, textured results. Granny squares let you use multiple colors creatively. Ripple patterns create visual waves with striped yarn effects. Corner-to-corner (C2C) works up quickly and shows off gradient yarn beautifully

Amigurumi & Toys

The smooth texture and tight twist of Big Twist yarn makes it excellent for amigurumi—those adorable crocheted stuffed animals and characters. The yarn holds its shape well, doesn’t split easily, and comes in every color imaginable for creative character design.

Why Big Twist Works for Toys: The acrylic composition is machine washable (essential for kids’ toys), colorfast so features stay vibrant, smooth enough to show clean stitch definition, and affordable enough to buy multiple colors without guilt. Plus, the anti-pilling properties mean toys look good even after lots of play and washing.

Popular Toy Projects: Stuffed animals from simple balls to complex creatures, character dolls based on favorite shows or books, seasonal decorations like pumpkins and snowmen, and baby toys that are safe and washable. Check online for free patterns that specify Big Twist or similar worsted weight yarn.

Home Decor Items

Transform your living space with handmade touches using Big Twist yarn. The variety of colors and textures lets you match any décor style from farmhouse rustic to modern minimalist. These DIY projects add personality to your home while showcasing your crafting skills.

Easy Home Décor Projects: Pillow covers in textured stitches or colorwork patterns bring cozy touches to sofas and beds. Pot holders and placemats add handmade charm to kitchens. Baskets in bulky yarn provide stylish storage solutions. Wall hangings in ombre yarn create modern art pieces. Throw blankets become functional décor across furniture.

Color Coordination Tips: Choose neutral yarns like grays, tans, and creams for versatile pieces that match multiple rooms. Use bold colors for accent pieces that pop against neutral backgrounds. Try variegated yarn for visual interest without complex pattern work. Keep seasonal colors on hand for holiday-specific décor that refreshes your space throughout the year.

Practice Projects for Beginners

Learning to knit or crochet becomes less intimidating when you’re not worried about wasting expensive yarn. Big Twist provides beginner-friendly yarn that’s forgiving of mistakes while you develop skills. The affordable price lets you practice stitches, try new techniques, and experiment without financial stress.

Best Beginner Projects: Simple scarves in garter stitch or single crochet build basic skills. Dishcloths provide quick gratification—you’ll finish in an evening. Granny square blankets teach color changes and joining techniques. Basic hats introduce working in the round. Fingerless gloves combine skills into wearable items.

Why Big Twist for Learning: The smooth yarn doesn’t catch on needles or hooks, making it easy-to-crochet yarn for beginners. Clear stitch definition lets you see exactly what you’re doing. Consistent quality across skeins means no surprises. Wide availability online through Amazon means you can reorder the same colors if needed.

Big Twist Yarn Colors: Complete Palette Guide

Color selection can make or break a project. Big Twist offers an impressive range across all their lines, giving you options for any project theme or personal preference. Let’s break down the color families and when to use them.

Neutral Basics (Grays, Tans, Whites, Blacks)

Every crafter needs a solid stash of neutrals. These versatile shades work as main colors for sophisticated projects or as coordinating colors alongside brighter hues. Big Twist’s neutral selection includes true black, soft white, cream, various grays from charcoal to dove, tans and beiges in warm tones, and browns from light taupe to chocolate.

When to Choose Neutrals: Use for home décor items that need to match existing furniture and paint colors. Choose for men’s accessories like scarves and hats. Select as backgrounds for colorwork patterns where you want other colors to pop. Pick for professional workplace accessories. Opt for modern minimalist aesthetic projects that emphasize texture over color

Bold Brights

When you want your project to make a statement, reach for Big Twist’s bold colors. These saturated hues don’t fade with washing and add cheerful yarn energy to any creation. The vibrant yarn colors include true red, royal blue, sunny yellow, grass green, bright orange, hot pink, and deep purple.

Perfect Uses for Bold Colors: Kids’ blankets and toys that celebrate joyful crafting and playful yarn colors. Accent pieces that pop against neutral room decor. Charity items for organizations that appreciate fun yarn choices. Colorwork patterns where you need clear color contrast. Summer accessories that embrace vibrant project ideas and creativity.

Pastels for Baby Projects

Soft, gentle colors work beautifully for baby items. Big Twist offers a sweet range of pastel yarn options perfect for baby blankets, nursery decor, and infant clothing. These include soft pink, baby blue, mint green, pale yellow, lavender, and peach.

Baby Project Considerations: Pastels read as traditionally “baby” appropriate for gifts. They photograph beautifully for keepsake photos. The gentle colors don’t overwhelm nursery décor. Multiple pastels coordinate easily for striped or granny square designs. These shades hide stains better than pure white but look cleaner than bold colors.

Seasonal Collections

Big Twist releases seasonal colors throughout the year, giving you fresh options for holiday projects. While availability varies with Joann stores closed, Amazon sellers often stock these special colorways. Look for fall colors like burnt orange, deep red, and golden yellow. Winter shades include icy blue, silver gray, and deep evergreen. Spring brings fresh greens, coral pinks, and sky blues. Summer features bright turquoise, sunny yellow, and hot pink.

Seasonal Project Ideas: Create themed blankets for different times of year. Make holiday decorations using appropriate color palettes. Design seasonal fashion accessories like winter scarves or summer market bags. Craft decorative items for specific celebrations and events throughout the calendar.

Visual Color Organization

When shopping online for Big Twist yarn, organize your project colors by creating a mood board or color palette before purchasing. This helps ensure coordinating colors work together harmoniously. Use digital tools or simply arrange yarn photos side-by-side on your screen to preview combinations. Remember that colors may appear slightly different online versus in person.

Where to Buy Big Twist Yarn & Finding Best Prices

Since Joann stores have closed, finding Big Twist yarn requires knowing where to look online. Here’s your complete guide to sourcing this popular yarn and getting the best deals.

Online Through Amazon

Amazon has become the primary source for Big Twist yarn now that Joann.com is no longer operating. Many sellers offer Big Twist products through Amazon’s marketplace, including individual skeins and bulk discount yarn packs. When you buy Big Twist yarn online through Amazon, you get convenient shipping, customer reviews to guide purchases, and competitive pricing across multiple sellers.

Amazon Shopping Tips: Compare prices across different sellers; costs can vary significantly. Read recent reviews to confirm yarn quality and accurate color representation. Check if sellers offer multi-skein packs for better bulk pricing.

Other Online Craft Retailers

Beyond Amazon, several online craft supply websites stock remaining Big Twist inventory. Independent yarn shops occasionally carry it. Online marketplace sites like eBay have sellers offering Big Twist. Specialty craft supply websites may stock certain lines. Always verify seller reputation and return policies before purchasing from unfamiliar sites.

Big Twist Yarn Website Navigation

The original Big Twist yarn website was accessed through Joann.com, but that’s no longer available. Instead, search “Big Twist yarn Amazon” to find current listings. Use specific search terms like “Big Twist Value Yarn” or “Big Twist Living Yarn” plus your desired color. Filter by Prime shipping, customer ratings, and price to narrow options. Check product descriptions carefully for accurate weight, yardage, and fiber content information.

Online-Exclusive Colors

Some Big Twist colors were online-exclusive through Joann.com and may be harder to find now. If you’re looking for a discontinued or rare color, try searching eBay, Etsy, or specialized yarn destash groups on social media. Crafters often sell unused skeins from their stash, providing access to colors no longer in regular production.

Sale Patterns & Coupon Tips

While the regular Joann coupon codes no longer apply, you can still save on Big Twist yarn through smart online shopping. Watch for Amazon Prime Day sales, Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, and seasonal clearance events. Subscribe to price tracking tools that alert you when Big Twist yarn drops in cost. Buy in bulk when you find good prices on colors you use frequently—acrylic yarn stores indefinitely when kept dry.

Best Times to Stock Up: Major shopping holidays typically bring 20-40% discounts. End of season sales clear out seasonal colors at reduced prices. Subscribe & Save options on Amazon provide ongoing small discounts. Multi-pack listings often cost less per skein than individual purchases. Consider generic worsted weight yarn alternatives if Big Twist isn’t available in your needed color.

Working with Big Twist Yarn: Tips & Techniques

Understanding how Big Twist yarn behaves helps you achieve professional-looking results. Here are essential techniques for getting the most from this versatile yarn.

Gauge Considerations

Gauge determines how many stitches per inch your finished fabric will have. Big Twist Value Yarn typically gauges at 18 stitches and 24 rows per 4 inches in stockinette on size US 8 needles. For crochet, expect about 14 single crochet stitches per 4 inches with an H-8 hook.

Why Gauge Matters: Matching gauge ensures your finished project matches pattern dimensions. Too tight means your item will be smaller and stiffer. Too loose creates larger, floppier results. Always create a gauge swatch before starting garments or fitted items. Block your swatch as you’ll block the finished piece for accurate measurement.

Adjusting Gauge: If your stitches are too tight, go up a needle or hook size. If too loose, go down a size. Some crafters naturally knit or crochet tighter or looser that’s normal. Adjust tools to match the pattern’s gauge rather than forcing your natural tension to change drastically.

Needle/Hook Recommendations

Big Twist Value and Premium work well with US size 7-9 needles (4.5-5.5mm) for knitting. For crochet, try H-8 to I-9 hooks (5-5.5mm). Big Twist Bulky needs larger tools—US 10-11 needles (6-8mm) or K-L hooks (6.5-8mm). Always check your specific pattern’s recommendations and adjust based on your personal gauge.

Tool Material Matters: Metal needles and hooks glide smoothly with acrylic yarn, speeding up your work. Bamboo or wood grips the yarn more, providing better control for beginners. Plastic tools work fine but may catch occasionally on acrylic fibers. Choose based on your comfort and experience level.

Joining & Weaving Ends

When you run out of yarn mid-project, you need to join a new skein. For Big Twist acrylic yarn, the Russian join creates secure, invisible connections. Thread both old and new yarn ends onto a tapestry needle. Weave each end back through itself for 2-3 inches. Pull tight and trim excess the join becomes part of your working yarn.

Weaving in Ends: Leave 6-inch tails when you join or finish off. Use a tapestry needle to weave ends through the back of your work. Follow the stitch pattern for 2-3 inches in one direction. Double back in another direction for extra security. Trim close to the fabric acrylic won’t unravel if properly secured.

Preventing Loose Ends: Weave ends immediately as you work rather than saving them all for the end. This prevents a mountain of finishing work that can drain your enthusiasm. Secure ends before washing water and agitation can loosen poorly woven ends, creating holes in your fabric.

Color Pooling Prevention

Variegated and ombre yarn can create unintended color pooling patterns in your work. To prevent this with Big Twist’s multicolored options, alternate between two skeins every few rows. This distributes the color repeat differently. Use smaller stitch multiples that break up the color rhythm. Try different stitch patterns Texture stitches often disguise pooling better than plain stockinette or single crochet.

Big Twist Yarn Care Instructions

Proper care keeps your Big Twist projects looking fresh for years. Here’s everything you need to know about washing, drying, and storing items made with this yarn.

Washing Guidelines

Big Twist acrylic yarn is machine washable, making it ideal for everyday items. Use cold or warm water hot water can relax acrylic fibers over time. Choose gentle or permanent press cycle to minimize agitation. Add mild detergent avoid harsh chemicals or bleach that can fade colors. Wash similar colors together, especially for the first few washes, as deep colors may release some dye.

Hand Washing Option: For delicate items or to be extra careful, hand wash in cool water with gentle soap. Gently squeeze water through the fabric don’t wring or twist. Press between towels to remove excess water. Reshape and lay flat to dry for best results

Drying Recommendations

Tumble dry Big Twist items on low heat for 20-30 minutes. Remove while still slightly damp and lay flat to finish air drying. This prevents over-drying that can make acrylic feel stiff. For best results, lay flat to air dry completely on a clean towel. Reshape items while damp to maintain proper dimensions. Never hang wet items—the water weight causes stretching, especially in garments.

Quick Drying Tips: Roll items in a towel and press firmly to remove excess water before air drying. Use a fan to speed up air drying time. Block items to desired measurements while damp, pinning in place until completely dry. This technique works especially well for blankets and wearable accessories

Storage Tips

Store Big Twist projects in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Fold items rather than hanging them hanging stretches knit and crochet fabric over time. Use breathable storage bags or containers avoid airtight plastic that can trap moisture. Keep away from heat sources that might warp acrylic fibers. Store seasonal items clean body oils and dirt attract pests even though acrylic isn’t prone to moth damage.

Long-Term Storage: For items you won’t use for months, wash thoroughly before storing. Add cedar balls or lavender sachets to keep storage areas fresh. Check stored items every few months to ensure no moisture problems. Refold along different lines periodically to prevent permanent creases in folded areas.

Colorfast Testing

Big Twist yarn is generally colorfast, but it’s smart to test new colors before making items that combine light and dark shades. Wet a small section of yarn in warm water. Press between white paper towels. Check if any color transfers to the towel. If yes, wash that skein separately before starting your project to remove excess dye.

Big Twist Living Yarn: Sustainable Crafting Deep Dive

The Big Twist Living line deserves special attention for crafters interested in eco-friendly yarn options. Here’s everything you need to know about this sustainable choice.

What Makes It Eco-Friendly?

Big Twist Living Yarn incorporates recycled materials into its fiber composition, reducing demand for new petroleum-based products used in virgin acrylic production. This recycled yarn gives new life to existing materials that might otherwise end up in landfills. The environmental benefit comes from reduced energy use in production, less waste going to landfills, and decreased demand for new raw materials.

The Sustainability Story: Recycled polyester comes from sources like plastic bottles and textile waste. Manufacturing recycled fibers uses less energy than creating virgin acrylic from scratch. The process diverts waste from landfills and oceans. Choosing Big Twist Living supports the market for recycled content, encouraging more sustainable yarn production industry-wide.

Recycled Content Breakdown

Big Twist Living typically contains 30-50% recycled content yarn mixed with virgin fibers. This blend provides the best balance of sustainability and performance. The exact percentage may vary by color and production batch. The remaining content consists of new acrylic or polyester fibers that help maintain consistent quality and workability.

Why Not 100% Recycled? Blending recycled and virgin fibers ensures consistent quality, predictable gauge, and reliable durability. Pure recycled content can vary in texture and performance depending on source materials. The blend gives you sustainable benefits without sacrificing the yarn characteristics crafters rely on for successful projects.

Performance vs. Traditional Acrylic

Many crafters wonder if recycled yarn performs as well as standard acrylic. The answer with Big Twist Living is yes. It has the same soft yarn feel as Value or Premium, similar durability through washing and use, comparable stitch definition for pattern work, and identical care requirements (machine washable and dryable).

Working with Living Yarn: Use the same needles and hooks as traditional worsted weight yarn. Expect similar gauge results. Weave ends using the same techniques. Wash and dry exactly like standard Big Twist yarn. The main difference is knowing you made an environmentally conscious choice—the yarn itself performs identically in your projects.

Best Uses for Living Yarn

Big Twist Living works beautifully for any project where you’d use standard worsted weight yarn. It’s especially popular for blankets and home décor items, everyday accessories like scarves and hats, and charity projects where you want to highlight sustainability. Some crafters specifically choose Living Yarn for baby items, appreciating the eco-friendly aspect for the next generation.

Marketing Your Handmade Eco Items: If you sell handmade items, Big Twist Living adds a sustainability story that appeals to eco-conscious customers. Mention the recycled content in product descriptions. Highlight your commitment to sustainable crafting. Price items slightly higher if desired many customers will pay a premium for environmentally friendly goods.

Big Twist Yarn Reviews: Real Crafter Experiences

Understanding real-world experiences helps you make informed buying decisions. Here’s what crafters consistently say about Big Twist yarn based on online reviews and community feedback.

Aggregated Customer Feedback

The overwhelming majority of Big Twist reviews are positive, with crafters praising the value proposition quality performance at budget-friendly prices. Many reviewers specifically compare it favorably to more expensive brands. Common themes include surprise at the softness for the price, appreciation for the wide color selection, and satisfaction with how well projects wear over time.

Rating Breakdown: Most Big Twist products earn 4-5 star ratings on Amazon and craft sites. Value Yarn receives especially high marks for blanket projects. Premium gets praised for its soft yarn characteristics. Living Yarn attracts positive reviews from eco-conscious crafters. Cotton versions compare well to established cotton yarn brands in reviewer opinions.

Common Praise Points

Reviewers consistently highlight several strengths. The affordable pricing lets crafters take on large projects without financial stress. The soft yarn texture works well for items worn against skin. Machine washable convenience matters for practical items that see regular use. Color vibrancy holds up through multiple washings. The anti-pilling properties keep projects looking new longer. Generous yardage per skein provides good value. Smooth texture prevents splitting during work.

What Experienced Crafters Say: Expert knitters and avid crocheters often comment that Big Twist performs as well as brands costing 50% more. Many report switching to Big Twist for most projects after trying it. The consistent quality across skeins gets mentioned frequently—no surprises mid-project. Several reviewers note they can’t tell the difference between Big Twist and premium brands in finished items.

Potential Drawbacks

No yarn is perfect for everyone, and some reviewers note minor concerns. A few find certain colors slightly different from online photos (common with all yarn shopping online). Some crafters prefer natural fibers and don’t love the feel of any acrylic, including Big Twist. Limited availability now that Joann stores closed frustrates some loyal users. Certain specialty colors sell out quickly and don’t restock predictably.

Context for Criticism: Most negative comments relate to personal preference rather than quality issues. Some crafters simply prefer wool or cotton and wouldn’t choose any acrylic. Others want ultra-premium softness beyond what any budget yarn provides. The valid complaints about availability post-Joann closure are understandable but don’t reflect on the yarn’s quality.

Best Practices from Experienced Users

Veteran Big Twist users share helpful tips in reviews. Buy extra when you find colors you love since restocking can be unpredictable. Start large projects with all skeins from the same dye lot when possible for color consistency. Wash swatches before committing to gauge for fitted garments. Use Big Twist for practice and experimental projects where mistakes won’t be costly. Stock up during sales since acrylic yarn stores indefinitely when kept dry.