Denim Rebooted
Giving old textiles a second lease of life is one of the most practical ways we can reduce our crafting footprint. Recycled denim is a prime example of this circular economy in action, turning discarded jeans into a versatile, textured yarn.
Our range of Siena Yarn, sourced from a family-run spinning mill in Tuscany, Italy, has arrived. The muted, rustic shades of this recycled denim yarn complement the changing seasons, offering a dry, breathable texture that is perfect for transitioning into cooler weather.
From Jeans to Yarn: The Recycling Process
The journey from a pair of jeans to a ball of Siena yarn is entirely mechanical. Post-consumer garments are collected, stripped of metal accessories like rivets and zips, and sorted by colour. The sorted denim is then shredded back into raw cotton fibres before being spun into new yarn.
Because the sorting is done so precisely by colour, the fibres do not require any additional dyeing. This saves significant amounts of water and eliminates the chemical processing typically associated with colouring yarn. It is a clean, 100% plant-based, vegan process that keeps textiles out of landfill while preserving the natural character of the cotton.
Working with Recycled Denim: Structure and Tension
If you are used to knitting or crocheting with animal fibres or bouncy synthetics, recycled cotton will feel different on your hands. It has very little natural elasticity or "give". When I first cast on with Siena, I noticed that my hands grew tired a bit quicker than usual because the yarn doesn't stretch to accommodate tight tension.
To counter this, I recommend using wooden or bamboo needles or hooks. Wood has a natural grip that helps you control the stitches without needing to hold the yarn too tightly. Keep your tension relaxed, and let the tools do the work.
Because recycled cotton fibres are shorter than virgin cotton, you might notice a slight halo or textured slub in the strand. This is a normal structural characteristic of the recycling process, and it gives the finished fabric a lovely, rustic fabric character.
Crucially, trust the blocking process. Recycled denim can feel slightly stiff or dry while you work, but a warm wash with a gentle, plant-based soap relaxes the fibres completely. The fabric softens, the stitch definition evens out, and the drape becomes fluid.
Choosing the Right Stitch and Weight
Siena is spun as a sport weight yarn, offering 310 metres per 100g skein. Held singly, it creates a lightweight, breathable fabric that is ideal for structured cardigans, summer tees, or lightweight shawls. If you are planning a project and want to understand how this category fits into your stash, you can read our Ultimate Yarn Weight Guide to learn about standard weight categories and ply structures.
You can also hold Siena double. By combining two strands, you can mix and match different denim shades to create a light Aran weight with a beautifully marled, multi-tonal look.
When selecting stitches for recycled denim, opt for patterns that do not rely on yarn elasticity. Intricate cables can be tough to work and may lay flat, whereas textured knit-purl combinations (like moss stitch or seed stitch) or textured crochet stitches (like double crochet and half treble crochet combinations) look crisp and defined. If you are working on a crochet project and want to get the absolute most out of your skein, choosing an efficient stitch can make all the difference. Our guide on efficient crochet stitches to avoid yarn chicken outlines how to structure your work to maximize your yardage.
Suggested Projects and Kits
To help you get started, we have developed a series of kits designed specifically for Siena's unique drape.
- Take a look at our Siena Kits and yarn options for inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does recycled denim yarn bleed colour when washed?
Just like a new pair of jeans, recycled denim yarn can release a small amount of excess indigo dye during the first wash. We recommend washing your finished, blocked project separately in cool water to prevent any colour transfer to other garments.
Can I substitute Siena sport weight yarn for a standard DK yarn?
Siena is slightly thinner than a standard DK. While you can sometimes substitute them by adjusting your needle or hook size, we recommend working a tension square first to ensure the fabric doesn't end up too loose or too dense.
How does recycled cotton hold up to wear and washing?
Recycled cotton is highly durable and machine-washable on a gentle cycle, though hand-washing in cool water will prolong the life of your handmade items. The fabric actually becomes softer and more comfortable with each wear and wash, mimicking the aging process of quality denim.
Is this yarn suitable for beginners?
Yes, though beginners should take care not to tension the yarn too tightly. The lack of elasticity means that any uneven tension will show in the stitch definition, but blocking will help even out minor irregularities.