Performa KAURI Fingering from Zealana has arrived here in space! This uber soft yarn has a unique blend of New Zealand merino and brushtail possum with a touch of added silk. Worked on its own or paired with Woolfolk Tynd or Sno, your items are sure to be the coziest projects for even the chilliest of days.
Despite KAURI’s luxurious blend, it’s strong and washable, making it perfect for garments or extra special baby items.
While we are all familiar with the properties of merino and silk, brushtail possum is new to many of us. Brushtail possum is incredibly lightweight because it is a hollow fiber and studies have shown yarns blended with it to be much warmer than pure merino or cashmere.
All of these properties make brushtail possum a great addition to your stash as it is, but incorporating this fiber also cuts down on the destruction this invasive species has on the natural ecosystems of New Zealand. Brushtail possums were introduced by fur traders in the late 19th century in New Zealand and rapidly took over due to a lack of predators. This invasion has had detrimental effects on the native flora and fauna of the islands, and an estimated 21,000 metric tons (over 46 million lbs) of New Zealand forest is consumed daily by these pests. By incorporating their fiber into yarn, you’re not only getting a wonderful product but also helping to save such a unique environment. For more information, check out the wealth of resources from Zealana.
Yarn Details
- 60% New Zealand merino, 30% brushtail possum, 10% silk
- Fingering weight
- 167 yards (153 meters) per 40 g ball
- 27 stitches to 4 inches on a US 3-5 (3.25-3.75 mm) needle
- Price $14.95
Pattern Ideas
- Igawa by Junko Okamoto
- jeluly by rie vive
- Balustrade Stripe hat by Sarah Kelliher
- Ulva Lactuca shawl by Wei S. Leong
- Starstuff and Starstuff hat by Amy van de Laar