Lace Yarns: For Stolas, Shawls, and Delicate Projects
Lace is the finest Yarn Weight actively knitted. Using very thin Needles (1.5–2.5mm), it creates ultra-thin, transparent pieces that are still sturdy: stolas, shawls, scarves, decorative elements. The finished knit shows its full beauty only after Blocking – Wet Blocking and Pinning Out to size – when the lace pattern unfolds in all its delicacy.
What is Lace Weight?
Lace Weight refers to yarns with a Meterage typically between 400–1000+ meters per 100g. They are significantly thinner than Fingering yarns (about 200–400m/100g) and are knitted on Needles from 1.5mm, sometimes also on 3–4mm for especially loose, airy textures. The knitted piece is soft and malleable when wet – in this state it is pinned out and dries in the desired shape.
That sounds like a lot of work – and Lace indeed requires more patience and concentration than coarser weights. Stitch markers for each pattern section, calm knitting moments without distractions, and a blocking frame or pins for pinning out are recommended. But the result is unlike anything possible with coarser yarn: almost unreal fineness, yet warm.
Lace from Wool, Silk, or Mohair?
Lace yarns made from Silk or silk blends drape especially beautifully: the natural Sheen of silk makes lace patterns appear even more delicate and gives the finished piece an elegant, flowing Drape. Lace from silk blends is ideal for festive stolas and scarves worn on special occasions.
Lace made from pure Merino Wool is more matte and has more body – the result is warmer and more structured, with a natural wearing comfort that silk blends don’t quite reach. Ideal For shawls worn also in cooler temperatures.
Kid Mohair in Lace Weight is almost never knitted solo – the Fibers tangle too much when knitting back. Mohair Lace is instead used as a second strand, giving the main yarn a soft Halo and extra warmth without having to carry structure itself. Knitting for Olive Soft Silk Mohair (70% Superkid Mohair, 30% Silk) is the most popular yarn in our Assortment for this purpose.
Lace for Beginners?
Lace is not a Yarn Weight for absolute beginners – counting, knitting back, and pinning out require a basic knitting experience. But if you have completed some simple projects in Fingering or DK and want to try Lace: start with a simple shawl made from a light, evenly dyed yarn on slightly larger Needles (3–4mm instead of 2mm). This way you can see the pattern better and correct more easily.
Our Lace Yarns at BONIFAKTUR
Knitting for Olive Soft Silk Mohair (225m/25g, 70% Superkid Mohair, 30% Silk) – unbeatable as a companion for Fingering yarns. But also usable solo for loose shawls.
Malabrigo Lace – 100% Superwash Merino Wool in Malabrigo’s unmistakable, hand-dyed colors. Soft, intense, and wonderful for large shawls and stolas. More in the Malabrigo Brand Guide.
All Lace yarns at BONIFAKTUR are shipped from Munich, free within Germany for orders over €100.
