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Wool is the most common type of knitting and crochet fiber; it is often blended with synthetic or other fibers to create an easy-care yarn. There are many breeds of sheep, each with its own characteristics, dependent on the type of terrain it inhabits. Common types of wool used in crochet and knitting include the coarse but strong Shetland and the soft, popular Merino. The latter is a good choice for most projects because it is a versatile yarn with a nice drape. Some wool can be prone to pilling and may felt or "full" (mat together and shrink) when washed incorrectly, so check the ball band and never wash in more than lukewarm water unless you intend to felt your work. Using wool that is labeled "superwash" eliminates the need for this precaution, because it is treated to avoid felting. Other animal-base fibers include alpaca, llama, angora, cashmere, and mohair. For the motifs in this book, fibers with a less hairy texture work best; treat them with the same care as pure wool.
Cotton is a common choice for crochet work. The fiber comes from the seedpod—the "boll"—when it bursts open. Cotton with long fibers is prized as the best quality because it produces a smooth, strong yarn when spun. Cotton washes well but may stretch if hung out when wet, so beware of hanging a heavy piece vertically; dry it flat. Cotton is a good choice for baby or children's pieces because it is not itchy and remains soft.
Acrylic is the best known of the synthetic fibers. It takes dye very well, so it is available in a wide range of bright colors. Acrylic is also economical and easy to care for, so it is a popular choice for children's wear. Other popular synthetic fibers you might see include microfiber and rayon.
Bamboo is a newer fiber to the market, with the softness of cotton but a greater drape. It also sometimes has a slight sheen to it and is a good choice for babies and children. Milk protein fiber and corn fiber are two other fairly new fibers that are soft and sustainable choices.
Silk has an incredibly long history as a textile fiber, but its slippery handle makes it unsuitable except for the more experienced. Peace silk, or tussah silk, is produced without causing any harm to the silk moths.
Blends are often a good choice as they combine the best of several fibers, often creating a more durable, easier-care yarn.