Let’s Knit review: Álafoss

With winter just across the horizon we’re on the look-out for warm and hard-wearing yarns for our winter knits – so where better to start than with Icelandic brand Álafoss?

Named after its neighbouring river, Álafoss has been producing traditional and authentic yarn for over a century - it has even been suggested that the founding of the brand back in 1896 signified the beginning of Iceland’s wool industry.

They stock a range of yarns in differing weights and textures, however Álafoss is renowned for their pure Icelandic wool. The most popular of their yarns is the Álafosslopi which comes in 100g (approx 100m) balls and knits to a chunky weight. It is available in solid and variegated shades including winter browns, summer yellows, and brand new piercing neons. Lopi has a bit of a rustic feel to it, and is perfect for knitting snuggly winter jumpers and accessories.

Léttlopi, another of their popular yarns comes in 50g (approx 100m) balls and knits to a slightly tighter tension with its weight being somewhere between a DK and an aran. It’s lightweight, and fantastic for outdoor wear – especially in bitter winters. Léttlopi is available in a wide range of bold and warm shades; ideal for those mittens you’ve been itching to knit!

And that’s not all! Álafoss also sell 100% Icelandic wool sweaters which boast of the most beautiful colourwork. Each jumper is handmade by a local woman, whose name will be printed on the accompanying tag – hows that for a personal touch?

Álafoss will be at the Unravel Knitting Festival in Farnham from the 21-23rd February.