Calm DK

Calm is a DK blend of 80% extra fine merino and 20% pure cashmere, with 164 yards (150 meters) in each 50 g cake. The merino measures just 16 microns, which is very fine, and together with the cashmere it makes a yarn meant to be worn right against the skin.

McIntosh spins it using both Z and S twists, which it says gives crisp, balanced stitch definition, so cables and texture stand out clearly despite the softness. Each cake is hand-dyed to order in a semi-solid colorway, with gentle shifts in tone across the fabric. The blend and spin are exclusive to McIntosh.

It's a good pick for knitters and crocheters who want a soft DK that still shows off stitch patterns, and for anyone making something for a baby, a child, or a person who finds wool scratchy.

Best for

• Soft sweaters and cardigans
• Cowls, hats and other next-to-skin accessories
• Cables and textured stitches
• Baby and children's knits
• Gift projects

Working with it

The suggested needle or hook is US 6 (4 mm) for 22 stitches and 28 rows to 4 inches. At 164 yards per 50 g cake, you'll need more cakes than a 100 g skein yarn for the same project, so check the total yardage your pattern calls for. As with any hand-dyed yarn, expect small differences between cakes and dye batches; alternating cakes for a few rows at each change helps them blend. Fine merino can pill at friction points, so a slightly firmer gauge suits cuffs and underarms.

Care

McIntosh lists hand wash in cool water and lay flat to dry. A short soak in a wool wash, a gentle squeeze in a towel and drying flat away from heat keep the merino and cashmere soft.