Best Cotton Knitting Yarn of 2025

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Cotton knitting yarn is a popular choice for many knitters due to its softness, breathability, and durability. Made from natural cotton fibers, this type of yarn is great for creating lightweight and comfortable garments such as summer tops, dresses, and baby clothes. It also comes in a wide range of colors and textures, making it easy to find the perfect yarn for any project. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter, cotton knitting yarn is a versatile and reliable choice that is sure to produce beautiful results.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

(1 Skein) 24/7 Cotton® Yarn Cover #TOP 1
(1 Skein) 24/7 Cotton® Yarn
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Lily Sugar n' Cream 6 Pack Cotton Yarn Bundle Cover #TOP 2
Lily Sugar n' Cream 6 Pack Cotton Yarn Bundle
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Caron All Day Cotton Yarn Cover #TOP 3
Caron All Day Cotton Yarn
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Cotton Knitting Yarn

#TOP 1

(1 Skein) 24/7 Cotton® Yarn

761-100
White
1 Pack
(1 Skein) 24/7 Cotton® Yarn Cover
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton Yarn, Lightweight Yarn for Knitting, Crocheting, and Crafts, White, 1 Pack

This worsted-weight 24/7 Cotton® Yarn is perfect for crocheting and knitting. Each skein is 3.5 oz. (100 g) and 186 yd. (170 m) long, made of 100% mercerized cotton, machine washable, and CYC #4 Medium weight. It has a beautiful color, magnificent stitch definition, and a sheen that lasts through multiple wash cycles. Great for making clothing. Lion Brand Yarn provides high-quality yarn to both beginner and expert crafters.

What We Like
Excellent for making clothing
Machine washable
Beautiful color and stitch definition
#TOP 2

Lily Sugar n' Cream 6 Pack Cotton Yarn Bundle

Lily
4336926689
Lily Sugar n' Cream 6 Pack Cotton Yarn Bundle Cover
Lily Sugar n' Cream Solid Variety Assortment 6 Pack Bundle 100 Percent Cotton Medium 4 Worsted (Multicolor)

This bundle includes 6 assorted skeins of Lily Sugar'n Cream cotton yarn, each 2.5 ounces and 120 yards long. It is a medium weight #4 yarn, perfect for making durable dishcloths. The yarn is made in Canada with cotton grown in the USA. The suggested gauge is 4"=20 stitches on size 7 needles, and H8 for crochet. Wash colors separately, and use warm water and delicate setting. Dry cleaning is recommended for multicolored large projects.

What We Like
Durable for making dishcloths
Includes 6 assorted colors
Medium weight for versatile use
#TOP 3

Caron All Day Cotton Yarn

29110000011P03
Moss
Caron All Day Cotton Yarn Cover
Caron All Day Cotton - 3 Pack of 173 Yards/3.52 oz Moss 100% Mercerized Cotton Yarn

Caron Cotton Yarn is a versatile choice for all your knitting and crocheting needs. Made from 100% mercerized cotton, it’s easy to care for—simply toss your creations in the washing machine and tumble dry on low. Each 100g ball provides ample material with 173 yards, making it perfect for various projects. With a worsted weight gauge, you can easily achieve stunning results, whether you’re knitting or crocheting. Plus, the beautiful sheen and smooth finish of this yarn ensure that every project looks polished and professional.

What We Like
Easy to care for
Versatile for various projects
Soft and smooth finish
Ample yardage per ball

Cotton to The Core Knit & Crochet Heather Yarn

727180104693
Jean blue
Pack of 6
Cotton to The Core Knit & Crochet Heather Yarn Cover
KnitPal Cotton to The Core Soft Cotton Yarn for Crocheting, 78% Cotton and 22% Acrylic - 3 DK Weight Cotton Acrylic Blend Yarn for Knitting - Soft Baby Yarn - 6 Skeins, 852 yds/300g (Jean Blue)

Cotton to The Core's unique construction of cotton netting and fuzzy inner core create a fabulous halo and squishable soft yarn. This 78% cotton/22% acrylic yarn is durable, yet soft and won't pill, perfect for both hand knitting and crochet in a range of wearable heathered colors. It comes with 6 center-pull balls for a generous total of 852 yards, and free patterns designed for beginner-intermediate level makers. Easy to care with machine washing and air drying on a flat surface.

What We Like
Soft and high-quality cotton blend
Comes in a beautiful range of colors
Easy to work with and creates a smooth finish
#TOP 5

Lily Sugar'n Cream Cotton Yarn Cone

Lily
10300202005
Soft Ecru
1 Cone
Lily Sugar'n Cream Cotton Yarn Cone Cover
Lily Sugar'n Cream Cotton Cone Yarn, 14 oz, Soft Ecru, 1 Cone

Lily Cotton Yarn is a versatile and soft option for all your crafting needs. Made from 100% cotton, this yarn is not only absorbent but also machine washable, making it easy to care for and perfect for everyday projects. With a generous 14 oz cone size, you can enjoy longer crafting sessions without constant interruptions for more yarn. The medium worsted gauge allows for a wide range of projects, whether you're knitting or crocheting, ensuring that you can create beautiful items efficiently and comfortably.

What We Like
Soft and absorbent
Machine washable
Large 14 oz cone
Versatile for knitting and crochet
#TOP 6

Lily Sugar'n Cream Cotton Cone Yarn

Lily
10300202178
Potpourri Prints
1 Cone
Lily Sugar'n Cream Cotton Cone Yarn Cover
Lily Sugar'n Cream Cotton Cone Yarn, 14 oz, Potpourri Prints, 1 Cone

Lily Cotton Cone Yarn is a natural, soft, absorbent knitting yarn that comes in an economical 14 oz cone size. Made from 100% cotton, this yarn is perfect for creating a wide range of knitting projects. With a generous ball size of 400g (14 oz) and a length of 645 meters (706 yards), you'll have plenty of yarn to complete your projects. The machine wash and dry care instructions make it easy to care for your finished pieces. The 4 Medium Worsted gauge ensures that your stitches will be even and consistent. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced knitter, Lily Cotton Cone Yarn is a versatile and reliable choice for all your knitting needs.

What We Like
Natural, soft, absorbent
Economical 14 oz cone size
Machine wash and dry
#TOP 7

SMC Catania 100% Cotton Yarn

Generic
106 WHITE
SMC Catania 100% Cotton Yarn Cover
[ Set of 2 Skeins ] SMC Catania Originals 100% Mercerized Cotton Yarn, Total 3.52 Oz. Each 1.76 Oz (50g) / 136 Yrds (125 m) Amigurumi Yarn Fine-Sport 2 (106 White)

Catania Cotton Yarn is a popular choice for crafters seeking high-quality materials. Made from 100% combed and mercerized cotton, this yarn is not only soft but also has a glossy finish, resembling silk. With a sport weight, it is versatile for various projects, making it perfect for both knitting and crocheting. You will find it easy to work with, as the cotton fiber is cool and comfortable to handle. Additionally, proper washing instructions ensure your creations maintain their quality over time, allowing you to enjoy your handmade items for longer.

What We Like
High-quality mercerized cotton
Soft and glossy finish
Easy to work with
Versatile for knitting and crocheting
#TOP 8

LovLim Crochet Yarn Kit

100001
Multicolored
LovLim Crochet Yarn Kit Cover
LovLim Crochet Yarn kit, 16 Soft Cotton Yarn Skeins,1000+ Yards, for Crochet and Knitting, Free Crochet/Amigurumi Patterns, Craft DK Yarn Perfect Starter Kit

The LovLim Crochet Yarn Kit features 16 soft cotton milk yarn skeins, each weighing 25 grams and 70 meters long. The kit comes with 2 hooks, yarn needles, and marking clips, all packaged in a reusable transparent bag. It is perfect for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike, and includes free exclusive Amigurumi and crochet patterns with step-by-step visual instructions for creating various DIY projects. The yarn is made with a special processing of milk proteins, resulting in much softer threads compared to standard cotton yarn.

What We Like
Comes with 16 rainbow colors and enough yarn for a broad range of craft projects.
Includes free exclusive Amigurumi and crochet patterns with step-by-step visual instructions.
Made with soft cotton milk yarn that is strong, durable, and easier to work with.
#TOP 9

Lily Sugar 'N Cream Ombre Yarn, 2oz, Gauge 4 Medium

Lily
10200200190
Painted Desert
1 Pack
Lily Sugar 'N Cream Ombre Yarn, 2oz, Gauge 4 Medium Cover
Lily Sugar 'N Cream The Original Ombre Yarn, 2oz, Gauge 4 Medium, 100% Cotton, Painted Desert - Machine Wash & Dry

The Lily Sugar 'N Cream Ombre Yarn is perfect for your knitting project. The yarn is made of 100% USA grown cotton which means it is soft and comfortable to wear. The product is available in a variety of colors and has a painted desert design. The yarn has a gauge of 4 - med worsted, and can be used for both knitting and crocheting projects. It is available in 2oz/56.7 g, 95 yds/86 m. The product is machine washable and dryer safe.

What We Like
Soft and comfortable to wear
Variety of colors available
Can be used for both knitting and crocheting projects
Machine washable and dryer safe
#TOP 10

YarnArt Jeans Yarn

YarnArt
YarnArt Jeans Yarn Cover
Yarn ArtYarnart Jeans Yarn, Amigurumi Cotton Yarn, Cotton Yarn Crocheting, Knitting Yarn, amigurumi Cotton Yarn, Turkish Yarn, 55% Cotton – 45% PAC (Poliacrylic) Color (48)

YarnArt Jeans is a versatile yarn made from a blend of 55% cotton and 45% polyacrylic, providing a soft and smooth texture that's perfect for various crafting projects. With a weight of 50 grams and a length of 160 meters, it offers ample material for your creations. The yarn’s wide color palette, featuring both pastel and vibrant shades, allows you to express your creativity in any project you undertake. Its durability ensures that your finished items, whether they be amigurumi dolls or baby blankets, will stand the test of time, giving you peace of mind as you craft.

What We Like
Soft and smooth texture
Wide color selection
Durable and long-lasting
Ideal for various projects
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is cotton yarn good for knitting?

Cotton yarn is great for knitting baby items like hats, clothing, blankets, or boots. It is absorbent, durable, and can be machine-washed. Many people also prefer using cotton yarn for knitting stuffed toys instead of acrylic or woollen yarn.

2. Is it hard to knit with cotton yarn?

Knitting with cotton yarn can be challenging and time-consuming, but the end result is worth it. Cotton yarns are perfect for creating soft knits, although they may require some extra effort compared to other types of yarn.

3. Does cotton yarn work in the knitting machine?

Yes, cotton yarn can be used in a knitting machine. In fact, a wide variety of fibers can be used, including wool, cotton, and acrylic. Yarns with wool and acrylic blends are popular for knitting machines due to their durability and ease of care. Natural fibers like cotton or linen are also preferred for their comfort and breathability.

4. Will cotton yarn shrink in the dryer?

Cotton yarn can generally be washed and dried without any issues. It is a sturdy yarn that holds up well. While it may shrink slightly in the dryer, it tends to stretch back out with use. However, for sentimental or intricate projects, it is recommended to hand wash in cold water with mild detergent and lay flat to dry.

5. What is the best yarn to use in a central knitting machine?

For a central knitting machine, size 4 worsted weight yarns work best. They create tight stitches that give a classic knit look. Smaller weights can result in loose stitches, while larger-weight yarns can be too bulky and may cause issues or jams in the machine.

6. Can you knit with 100% cotton?

Knitting with 100% cotton yarn is possible, but knitters should be aware that cotton is a heavier fiber with less elasticity. This means that anything knit in 100% cotton may sag and lose its shape over time. Rib patterns, in particular, may not hold their shape when worked with cotton yarn.

Editor's Notes

During our cotton knitting yarn research, we found 24 cotton knitting yarn products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 160,983 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cotton knitting yarn list. We found that most customers choose cotton knitting yarn with an average price of $14.37.

The cotton knitting yarn are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cotton knitting yarn, including Lion Brand Yarn, Lily, Caron, KnitPal, LovLim. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.