Fabulous 4-Ply

Fabulous 4-Ply is the fingering-weight version of McIntosh's Fabulous DK: 55% British Bluefaced Leicester wool and 45% Grade A mulberry silk, with 437 yards (400 meters) in a 100 g skein. It's accredited by British Wool as an authentic British wool blend.

The wool brings softness and a gentle luster, and the silk adds sheen and drape. Each skein is dyed to order in a rich semi-solid colorway, so there's quiet tonal depth across the fabric. The 24 shades share the DK's names, such as Glorious, Stunning and Terrific.

It's a good pick for knitters and crocheters planning a drapey shawl or a fine garment where the shine of the silk can show.

Best for

• Drapey shawls and wraps
• Fine, lustrous sweaters and tops
• Soft accessories
• Textured stitch patterns
• Heirloom and gift projects

Working with it

McIntosh suggests a US 4 (3 mm) needle or hook for 28 stitches and 36 rows to 4 inches. With nearly half silk, the fabric has less spring than pure wool and can lengthen a little with wear, so wash and dry your swatch flat before measuring, and let it hang for a while if you're making a long garment. Hand-dyed skeins can vary slightly between batches, so buy all you need at once and alternate skeins on large pieces.

Care

McIntosh lists hand wash in cool water and lay flat to dry. Use a gentle wool wash, squeeze the water out in a towel and dry away from direct heat.