Yarn Bee Tencel Yarn – Silky Smooth Plant-Based Fiber

★★★★★4.8/5· thousands of reviews

Our Yarn Bee Tencel Yarn is spun from sustainably sourced wood pulp to create a soft, breathable fiber with an elegant drape and silky hand feel. Tencel® lyocell fiber is known for its moisture-wicking properties and gentle touch, making it ideal for garments worn close to the skin—think flowing cardigans, summer tanks, and lightweight shawls.

We chose this plant-based fiber because it combines environmental responsibility with exceptional comfort. The closed-loop production process uses less water than conventional cotton, and the result is a yarn that resists wrinkles, regulates temperature, and feels cool against the skin. Whether you're knitting a delicate cowl or crocheting a breezy beach cover-up, this yarn delivers a refined finish that looks polished stitch after stitch.

  • 100% Tencel® lyocell fiber sourced from sustainably managed forests
  • DK weight (3 Light) with approximately 240 yards per 100-gram skein
  • Silky drape and subtle sheen for elegant finished projects
  • Excellent moisture management keeps you cool in warm weather
  • Machine washable on gentle cycle; lay flat to dry to preserve texture
100% Tencel® lyocell fiber sourced from sustainably managed forestsDK weight (3 Light) with approximately 240 yards per 100-gram skeinSilky drape and subtle sheen for elegant finished projectsExcellent moisture management keeps you cool in warm weatherMachine washable on gentle cycle; lay flat to dry to preserve texture
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Why Choose Tencel Lyocell Fiber

Why Choose Tencel Lyocell Fiber

Tencel lyocell is produced through a closed-loop system that recovers and reuses solvents, resulting in minimal environmental impact compared to traditional textile fibers. The wood pulp used in Tencel production comes from certified sustainable forestry, ensuring responsible land management. This eco-conscious manufacturing process aligns with our commitment to offering yarns that honor both craftsmanship and the planet.

Beyond sustainability, Tencel offers functional benefits that elevate your finished pieces. The fiber’s smooth surface resists bacterial growth naturally, making it a hygienic choice for garments and baby items. Its moisture absorption is higher than cotton yarn, so fabrics feel fresh and dry even on humid days. The combination of strength and softness means your knits and crochets maintain their shape while remaining supple enough to drape beautifully over the body.


Best Projects for Yarn Bee Tencel Yarn

Best Projects for Yarn Bee Tencel Yarn

This DK-weight yarn shines in projects where drape and breathability matter most. Knit a summer cardigan that won’t cling or overheat, or crochet a market tote that holds its structure without feeling stiff. The subtle sheen adds visual interest to lace patterns and textured stitches, making it an excellent choice for shawls and wraps that catch the light.

Garments like tees, tunics, and tank tops benefit from Tencel’s ability to regulate temperature and wick moisture away from the skin. The fiber also works well for lightweight blankets and throws intended for year-round use. If you’re exploring other cotton and natural fiber yarn options, Tencel offers a silkier alternative that pairs well with plant-based blends in colorwork or striping projects.


Care Instructions & Longevity

Care Instructions & Longevity

Washing & Drying

Machine wash your Tencel projects on a gentle or delicate cycle using cool water and a mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, as they can break down the fiber’s natural smoothness. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water—never wring—and lay the item flat on a clean towel to dry. This prevents stretching and preserves the yarn’s elegant drape.

Storage & Maintenance

Store finished pieces folded rather than hung to maintain their shape. Tencel resists moths and mildew naturally, but keeping items in a cool, dry space ensures long-term freshness. If wrinkles appear, a light steam or cool iron on the reverse side will restore the fabric’s smooth appearance. With proper care, garments made from our Yarn Bee Tencel Yarn will remain soft and beautiful for years of wear.


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What people are saying

4.8
★★★★★
Based on verified reviews
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E
Emily R.
Verified buyer
★★★★★
Silkiest yarn I've ever worked with
I made a sleeveless tunic for summer, and the drape is absolutely perfect. The yarn glides through my fingers, and the finished fabric feels cool against my skin even on hot days. I've washed it twice, and it still looks brand new.
L
Linda K.
Verified buyer
★★★★★
Eco-friendly and luxurious
I love that this yarn is sustainably produced without sacrificing quality. The sheen is subtle but adds such elegance to my shawl. It's also surprisingly strong for how soft it feels—no splitting or breaking while I worked.
J
Jessica T.
Verified buyer
★★★★★
Perfect for moisture-wicking garments
I knit a cardigan for my morning walks, and it keeps me comfortable without overheating. The moisture management is real—I stay dry even when I work up a sweat. The fit hasn't changed after multiple washes either.
M
Maria S.
Verified buyer
★★★★★
Beautiful stitch definition
Every cable and lace detail shows up clearly with this yarn. The smooth texture makes it easy to see my stitches as I go, so I caught mistakes right away. The final piece looks so polished, people ask if I bought it at a boutique.
K
Karen L.
Verified buyer
★★★★★
No pilling after months of wear
I was worried a plant-based fiber might pill quickly, but my tank top still looks smooth after wearing it weekly all summer. The fabric holds its shape beautifully and doesn't stretch out around the hem or neckline.
R
Rachel M.
Verified buyer
★★★★★
Ideal for sensitive skin
My daughter has eczema, and this is one of the few yarns that doesn't irritate her skin. I made her a lightweight sweater, and she wears it constantly. The natural antibacterial properties give me peace of mind, too.

Common Questions About Yarn Bee Tencel Yarn

Yarn Bee Tencel Yarn is a DK weight (category 3 Light) with approximately 240 yards per 100-gram skein. We recommend US size 5–7 needles (3.75–4.5 mm) for knitting or a size G-6 to H-8 crochet hook (4–5 mm) to achieve optimal drape and stitch definition. Always swatch to confirm gauge for garment projects.

You can machine wash projects made with Yarn Bee Tencel Yarn on a gentle cycle using cool water and mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, which can damage the fiber. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water and lay flat to dry to preserve the yarn's silky texture and elegant drape.

Tencel offers superior drape and moisture absorption compared to cotton, with a silkier hand feel and natural sheen. It wicks moisture more efficiently than bamboo viscose while maintaining strength and durability. The fiber's smooth surface also resists bacterial growth, making it ideal for garments worn close to the skin in warm weather.

This yarn excels in lightweight garments like summer cardigans, tank tops, tunics, and flowing shawls where drape and breathability are priorities. It's also suitable for market totes, lightweight throws, and accessories such as cowls and scarves. The subtle sheen enhances lace and textured stitch patterns beautifully.

Yes. Our Tencel lyocell fiber is sourced from sustainably managed forests certified by the FSC, and the closed-loop production process recycles over 99% of solvents and water. The manufacturing meets EU Ecolabel standards, and the fiber itself is biodegradable, breaking down naturally without releasing microplastics into the environment.

Tencel lyocell has a smooth fiber structure that resists pilling and maintains its softness over time when cared for properly. Machine washing on a gentle cycle and laying flat to dry will preserve the yarn's integrity. Many customers report that their finished projects look fresh and smooth even after months of regular wear and laundering.

Absolutely. Tencel pairs well with other plant-based fibers like cotton, linen, and bamboo in colorwork, striping, or blended projects. Its similar care requirements and compatible drape make it easy to incorporate alongside complementary yarns. Test swatches when combining fibers to ensure consistent gauge and texture in your finished piece.

Discover Our Full Range of Plant-Based Fibers
From cotton classics to innovative bamboo blends, find sustainable yarns for every project.