Nylon, also known as polyamide, is the original synthetic fiber created in 1938 by the
Du Pont Corporation. It is created from filaments of the material, which is cut into staples
(or shorter fibers), and then spun into yarns of various structures.

Generally, nylon is lightweight and elastic. It is also the strongest synthetic fiber. These properties make it the ideal addition to strengthen wool sock yarns and many other fibers.

Nylon can also be manufactured to obtain specific properties and into a wide variety of yarn textures, making it quite versatile. It is often blended or stranded with other fibers, enhancing each fiber's properties. Follow the care instructions on your yarn label carefully.

Nylon fiber is heat sensitive, so do not expose to extreme heat. Static cling can be a problem with yarns containing a high percentage of synthetic fiber.

Yarns made mostly of nylon are often novelties, but nylon yarns can plied with other natural fibers, making it suitable for all kinds of garments and accessories.

When nylon is blended with wool or another animal fiber, the yarn or garment will be susceptile to moths. Use mothballs to protect your yarn and garments. If you don't like the odor, periodically place the yarn or garment in a plastic bag in the freezer for 48 hours to kill moth larvae. You should also air out stored fibers in the sun every now and then.

Always read and use the care instructions on your yarn's label. If you need help interpreting the symbols used on the label, check our Yarn Label Symbols page.

Generally, you can machine wash nylons, but it does not affect it's softness. It is not advisable to machine dry or block a nylon garment with heat, as it can permanently lose it's body and sag. 

Skein Lane recommends using a "wool wash" product such as Eucalan, and tepid water (not cold); it's not just for wools. Never use Woolite, as it contains a bleaching agent that can discolor your yarn. You may also add touch of hair conditioner to rinse water for extra softness.

Do not wring or twist the wet item. Wrap in a towel and gently squeeze out the excess water before laying flat to dry.

Some popular nylon and nylon blend yarns at Skein Lane are:

• Punk - Crystal Palace Yarns
• Victoria Ribbon - Anny Blatt Yarns
• Opulent - Berroco Yarns
• Suede - Berroco Yarns
• Park - FFF
• Regia sock yarns - Schachenmayr/Nomatta
• Eros - Plymouth Yarns

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