Cotton Yarn at JOANN: Complete Guide to Brands, Weights and Buying
Cotton yarn is a natural plant fiber yarn made from the fibers of the cotton plant. It creates a soft and breathable yarn that is gentle on the skin, absorbs moisture well, and is safe for people with allergies. It is one of the top choices for cotton yarn for crochet and knitting because it works well for dishcloths, light summer clothes, baby items, and home decor projects where wool or acrylic may not perform as well. JOANN Fabrics offered a wide range of cotton yarn in the joann yarn section with many brands, sizes, and colors, including their own brands Big Twist and K+C Essentials along with popular names like Lion Brand as part of the full joann fabrics crafting collection.
After many store closures and company changes in 2025, people started searching online for cotton yarn joann and joann cotton yarn. This guide explains all types of cotton yarn, brand details, yarn weight systems, common uses, easy substitutes for discontinued JOANN cotton yarn, and where you can buy cotton yarn today.
What Is Cotton Yarn
Cotton yarn is made from natural fibers of the cotton plant. These fibers are spun and twisted into yarn, creating a smooth yarn with a soft matte look and clear stitch definition. Unlike wool or acrylic, cotton yarn has very little stretch. It does not bounce back like wool. Cotton has low memory, which means your stitches stay in place instead of changing shape after use.
Because cotton fibers absorb water well, cotton yarn is a great choice for dishcloths, washcloths, and kitchen items. It can hold moisture and release it easily when used. Cotton becomes heavier when wet compared to acrylic, so this is important to think about when making clothes. Cotton yarn works best in warm weather and summer clothing because it allows air to pass through and keeps the skin cool, unlike acrylic yarn. Cotton also does not pill as much as acrylic, so finished projects look neat and clean for a longer time.

JOANN Yarn Department Overview
JOANN organized the joann yarn department by fiber type, placing cotton, acrylic, wool, and special blends into separate sections of the yarn aisle. Cotton yarn had its own space next to other natural fibers because its uses, care needs, and pricing were different from acrylic yarn. The full joann yarn brands range included all major fiber types such as cotton, acrylic worsted, chunky acrylic, wool blends, chenille, novelty yarns, and seasonal specialty yarns, making JOANN one of the most complete yarn shopping places for crafters.
Inside the larger joanns yarn system, cotton was the third most popular fiber after acrylic worsted and chenille. This was due to steady demand all year for dishcloth yarn and summer clothing projects instead of short seasonal trends. Joann yarn sale events covered all yarn types at the same time, which is why many buyers waited for these sales before purchasing cotton yarn in bulk instead of paying full price. The yarn aisle often featured weekly discounts of 40 to 50 percent that applied to cotton along with other yarn types, making joann cotton yarn one of the most budget-friendly natural fiber options at a major craft store. Cotton held an important place in the JOANN yarn system as an everyday natural fiber that is easier to use than wool, more breathable than acrylic, and easier to wash than many blended yarns.
What Is Cotton Yarn Used For
Cotton yarn for crochet and knitting can be used for many different projects because it is absorbent, breathable, and easy to wash. These features make it useful for both everyday items and decorative pieces.
Common uses include dishcloth yarn, washcloth yarn, potholder cotton yarn, market bag yarn, summer clothing, cotton yarn for sweaters, baby blanket cotton yarn, amigurumi cotton yarn, home decor yarn, and crochet cotton yarn for kitchen sets, coasters, and placemats where machine washing is important.
Cotton Yarn Fiber Types
Not all cotton yarn is the same. The way it is processed changes how it feels, looks, and lasts over time.
Mercerized Cotton Yarn
Mercerized cotton yarn is treated with a special solution that strengthens the fibers and gives the yarn a slight shine. This process also helps the yarn absorb dye better, so colors look brighter and last longer. The result is a smoother and stronger cotton yarn with a soft, slightly silky feel. This type of cotton yarn is often used for crochet thread, fine projects, and summer clothing where a clean finish and bright color are important. It also helps reduce yarn splitting, which is a common problem when working with regular cotton yarn.
Unmercerized Cotton Yarn
Unmercerized cotton yarn keeps its natural look with a matte finish and a slightly rough feel. It has more grip and less shine compared to mercerized cotton. This makes it a better choice for dishcloths, washcloths, and potholders where strong absorbency and texture are more important than appearance.
Organic Cotton Yarn
Organic cotton yarn is grown without harmful chemicals and processed in a safer way. It is a good option for baby blankets and items made for sensitive skin because it is gentle and less likely to cause irritation.
Combed Cotton Yarn
Combed cotton yarn goes through an extra step where short fibers are removed before spinning. This creates a smoother and stronger yarn that is easier to work with and less likely to split while knitting or crocheting.
Recycled Cotton Yarn
Recycled cotton yarn is made from leftover fabric and textile waste that is turned back into yarn. It may have slight texture differences, but it is a more eco-friendly option. It works well for home decor projects and market bags where a bit of texture adds a unique look.
Milk Cotton Yarn
Milk cotton yarn that JOANN offered is not pure cotton. It is a blend of cotton and milk protein fiber. This gives the yarn a softer and smoother feel, making it popular for baby items and soft clothing. Always check the label because the amount of cotton can be different depending on the brand.
Plied Cotton Yarn vs Single Ply
Plied cotton yarn is made by twisting two or more strands together. This makes the yarn stronger and helps prevent splitting when using a crochet hook. Single ply cotton yarn uses just one strand, so it feels softer and has a more natural look, but it can split more easily while working. Because of this, single ply is often better for knitting, while most cotton yarn sold in stores, including Big Twist and K+C Essentials, is made with plied construction for easier use.

Cotton Yarn Brands Sold at JOANN
JOANN offered a range of cotton yarn options across different brands, covering various price levels, yarn weights, and fiber qualities. Knowing the differences between these brands helps you choose the right replacement now that many of them are discontinued or harder to find.
Big Twist Cotton Yarn
Joann Big Twist cotton yarn was the main store brand and offered the widest selection of colors and yarn weights at a low price. Big Twist cotton yarn was mostly available in worsted weight, with some DK weight options released in seasonal shades. It was one of the most popular choices in the joann yarn section because it was easy to find and often included in discount deals and coupons. Joann yarn Big Twist has now been discontinued after store closures, which has led many people to search for alternatives online.
K+C Essentials Cotton Yarn
K+C Essentials cotton yarn, also known as kc cotton yarn or knit and crochet essential cotton yarn, was a step above Big Twist in quality. K+C cotton yarn was made from 100% cotton in a worsted weight and was known for strong color hold and clear stitch definition. Many people also searched for the 24/7 cotton yarn joann version, which referred to a K+C DK weight line with higher yardage. Since both K+C and Big Twist are discontinued, most searches now lead to replacement guides and resale listings online.
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton Yarn
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton yarn was sold at JOANN along with store brands. It is a worsted weight 100% cotton yarn with a smooth finish and neat stitch look. This yarn is still easy to find and is one of the best replacements for discontinued JOANN cotton yarn because it has similar weight, length, and gauge.
Lily Sugar and Cream
Lily Sugar and Cream is a worsted weight 100% cotton yarn made mainly for dishcloths and kitchen use. JOANN carried it as a separate option for home and kitchen projects. It is still widely available at stores like Walmart, Hobby Lobby, and online, making it one of the easiest substitutes for discontinued JOANN cotton yarn.
Yarn Substitutes for Discontinued JOANN Cotton Yarn
| Discontinued Yarn | Weight | Yardage | Best Substitute | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Twist Cotton | Worsted 4 | 180 yards | Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton | Amazon, Michaels |
| K+C Essential Cotton | Worsted 4 | 180 yards | Paintbox Simply Cotton | Amazon |
| K+C DK Cotton | DK 3 | 220 yards | Drops Safran | Amazon |
| Big Twist Bulky Cotton | Bulky 5 | 120 yards | Lion Brand Re-Up Cotton | Amazon |
Always knit or crochet a gauge swatch before choosing a substitute cotton yarn tension can vary between brands and may change the final size of garments or fitted items. Checking your gauge first helps avoid sizing problems later. You can also review a full Big Twist yarn guide to understand discontinued weights and find matching alternatives that work the same way.
Cotton Yarn Weights at JOANN
Understanding yarn weight categories is one of the most important parts of choosing cotton yarn. Most patterns list a specific weight, and using the correct one helps you get the right size and stitch count. If the weight does not match, the finished project may turn out too big or too small.
| Weight | Number | Gauge per 4 inches | Common Hook Size | Common Projects |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lace weight | 0 | 32-plus stitches | 1.5 to 2.25mm | Crochet thread, doilies, fine lace |
| Fingering weight | 1 | 28 to 32 stitches | 2.25 to 3.5mm | Socks, fine summer tops |
| Sport weight | 2 | 23 to 26 stitches | 3.5 to 4.5mm | Baby items, light garments |
| DK weight | 3 | 21 to 24 stitches | 4.0 to 4.5mm | Summer sweaters, light blankets |
| Worsted weight | 4 | 16 to 20 stitches | 4.5 to 5.5mm | Dishcloths, market bags, garments |
| Bulky cotton yarn | 5 | 12 to 15 stitches | 5.5 to 8mm | Home decor, thick blankets |
Most cotton yarn sold at JOANN was worsted weight cotton yarn — weight 4 — which is the most flexible and beginner-friendly option. DK weight cotton yarn JOANN offered in the K+C line was the second most common and was often used for lighter summer clothes and baby projects. Lace weight cotton yarn JOANN shoppers looked for was usually crochet thread, which was placed in a separate section instead of the main yarn aisle.
Cotton Yarn for Crochet vs Knitting
Cotton yarn for crochet works differently than cotton yarn for knitting, and understanding this helps avoid common mistakes when using this fiber.
For crochet, cotton yarn gives very clear stitch definition because the low stretch fiber keeps each stitch in place without changing shape. This makes crochet cotton yarn a top choice for textured patterns, amigurumi cotton yarn, and detailed designs where stitch detail is important. One common issue with crochet cotton yarn is splitting, since the hook can pass through the strands at an angle. Using a smooth metal hook and choosing plied cotton yarn can help reduce this problem.
For knitting, cotton yarn can be more challenging because it does not stretch. Knitting needs even tension between stitches, and cotton does not adjust for small differences. Cotton garments made by knitting can also stretch out over time due to their own weight because the fiber does not have memory. It is often recommended to use needles one or two sizes smaller than the label suggests to create a firmer fabric that holds its shape better after washing.
Gauge Swatch and Tension with Cotton Yarn
Knitting gauge and crochet gauge can change with cotton yarn after the first wash, unlike acrylic yarn. Cotton relaxes and expands slightly after it gets wet and is blocked. This means a swatch measured before washing may not match the final project size. Always wash your gauge swatch before measuring it for clothing projects. Lay it flat, let it dry fully, and then measure for the most accurate result.
Managing yarn tension is very important when working with cotton. Since it does not stretch, any tight or loose stitches will stay that way. Changes in tension, like working tighter when tired or looser when relaxed, will show clearly in the final piece. Taking breaks during large projects can help keep your tension even.
What Does Cotton Yarn Feel Like
Cotton yarn has a smooth and slightly firm feel. It feels cooler on the skin compared to wool or acrylic. The matte surface gives it a clean and natural look, and stitches are easy to see. Plied cotton yarn feels more rounded and structured, while single-ply yarn feels softer but less firm. Because cotton does not stretch, it requires steady tension from the beginning. Finished cotton garments have a natural drape, but they can feel heavier than other fibers of the same weight.
Beginner Tips for Working With Cotton Yarn
Cotton yarn behaves differently from acrylic and wool, so beginners should keep a few simple tips in mind.
- Use a smaller hook or needle than suggested on the label — cotton does not stretch, so a tighter gauge helps keep the shape
- Keep your tension steady from the start — cotton will not adjust like wool
- Choose a smooth metal crochet hook instead of wood or bamboo — this helps prevent splitting
- Always make and wash a gauge swatch before measuring — cotton changes after washing
- Block cotton projects while wet — shape the item and let it dry flat
- Start with simple projects like dishcloths before making clothing — this helps you practice tension without worrying about fit
For machine options that help finish cotton yarn edges neatly, you can check a JOANN sewing machines guide.
Cotton Yarn vs Acrylic Yarn
| Feature | Cotton Yarn | Acrylic Yarn |
|---|---|---|
| Elasticity | Low — no memory | High — springs back |
| Breathability | High | Low |
| Stitch definition | Crisp and clear | Soft and blended |
| Pill resistance | High | Low to medium |
| Absorbency | High | None |
| Best for | Dishcloths, summer wear, baby | Blankets, cold weather, toys |
| Machine washable | Yes | Yes |
| Weight when wet | Heavy | Light |
| Beginner friendly | Medium | Yes |
Cotton yarn is not better than acrylic, it is simply different. Acrylic yarn has stretch, which makes it easier for beginners to work with and more forgiving if tension is not perfect. Cotton yarn has almost no stretch, which gives cleaner and sharper stitch definition but requires more control over tension while working. For a full comparison of acrylic yarn types that were available at JOANN, you can check Caron Cake yarn guide to better understand how acrylic behaves compared to cotton.
Cotton Yarn vs Wool Yarn
| Feature | Cotton Yarn | Wool Yarn |
|---|---|---|
| Elasticity | Low | High |
| Warmth | Low | High |
| Breathability | High | Medium |
| Felting risk | None | High |
| Seasonal use | Summer, year-round | Fall, winter |
| Allergy risk | Very low | Medium |
| Best for | Summer garments, kitchen items | Cold weather, structured garments |
Cotton is the better choice for warm climate knitting and crochet. Wool is better for cold weather garments requiring insulation. Project type determines which fiber wins.

100% Cotton Yarn vs Cotton Blends
100% cotton yarn JOANN offered in both Big Twist and K+C lines was made from pure cotton with no added fibers. This type of yarn is the best choice for dishcloths and items that need frequent washing because pure cotton holds up well in the washing machine and keeps its quality over time.
Cotton blends combine cotton with other fibers like acrylic, nylon, or polyester to improve stretch and lower cost. Milk cotton yarn is a mix of cotton and milk protein fiber, which makes it feel softer but means it is not fully cotton. Cotton acrylic blends have more stretch, making them easier to knit with even tension, but they are less breathable and do not absorb water as well as pure cotton. Always check the yarn label carefully, because some yarn sold as cotton may only contain 50 to 70 percent cotton in a blended mix.
Cotton Yarn Skein Sizes and Yardage at JOANN
| Skein Size | Typical Yardage | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Under 2.5 oz | 100 to 140 yards | Small projects, accent yarn |
| 2.5 oz to 3.5 oz | 140 to 180 yards | Dishcloths, small garments |
| 3.5 oz to 4.2 oz | 180 to 220 yards | Standard garment yardage |
| Over 4.2 oz | 220-plus yards | Large projects, blankets |
Standard cotton yarn by the skein at JOANN was a 3.5 oz skein at approximately 180 yards for both K+C Essential and Big Twist cotton lines. Always substitute by yardage not weight when switching between cotton yarn brands.
Cotton Yarn Price Per Skein at JOANN
| Brand | Regular Price | Coupon Price | Cost Per Yard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Twist Cotton worsted | $4 to $6 | $2 to $3 | $0.01 to $0.02 |
| K+C Essential Cotton | $5 to $7 | $2.50 to $3.50 | $0.015 to $0.02 |
| Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton | $8 to $10 | $4 to $5 | $0.02 to $0.03 |
| Lily Sugar and Cream | $3 to $5 | $1.50 to $2.50 | $0.01 to $0.02 |
Cotton yarn JOANN under $7 searches were focused on sale periods where coupons could be combined, bringing K+C and Big Twist prices down to under $3 per skein during weekly deals. Price comparisons for cotton yarn JOANN often showed that store brands had the lowest cost per yard among major retailers, especially when 40 to 50 percent off coupons were applied on top of sale prices. Lion Brand yarn was usually priced higher per skein, but it often included more yardage, making the cost per yard similar to store brands at regular price. Big Twist value yarn was known as the most budget-friendly option for cost per yard, while higher-end cotton like Lion Brand 24/7 offered smoother texture and better stitch definition for projects where quality was more important than price.
Most Popular Cotton Yarn Colors at JOANN
JOANN offered cotton yarn in a wide range of colors, including neutrals, bright shades, soft pastels, and seasonal tones.
- Cream cotton yarn JOANN — one of the most popular neutral choices for dishcloths, natural baby items, and simple craft projects
- White cotton yarn JOANN — often used for baby blankets and clean-looking kitchen items
- Blue cotton yarn JOANN — a steady favorite, especially in medium and navy shades
- Red cotton yarn JOANN — commonly chosen for holiday crafts and kitchen sets
- Black cotton yarn JOANN — used for home decor, market bags, and clothing projects
- Teal cotton yarn JOANN — a seasonal favorite for summer clothing and decorative dishcloth sets
- Soft pastel shades like pink, mint, lavender, and peach were also available during different seasons, often used for baby items and summer projects
Best Projects for Cotton Yarn
- Dishcloth yarn — a classic cotton project where absorbency and easy washing are important
- Washcloth yarn — soft enough for face and body use, especially in organic or unmercerized cotton
- Potholder cotton yarn — natural fiber that handles heat better than acrylic, making it safer for kitchen use
- Market bag yarn — low stretch helps bags keep their shape even when carrying weight
- Summer garment yarn — breathable material makes cotton perfect for warm weather tops and cardigans
- Cotton yarn for sweaters — DK and worsted weight cotton creates structured clothing with a nice drape
- Baby blanket cotton yarn — gentle and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for babies
- Amigurumi cotton yarn — clear stitch definition helps create neat and detailed toy designs
- Home decor yarn — good for macrame, baskets, and items that need to hold their shape
- Crochet cotton yarn for kitchen sets, coasters, and placemats where frequent washing is needed

JOANN Yarn Sale Schedule and Cotton Yarn Discounts
JOANN ran one of the most aggressive yarn coupon systems among major craft stores. Weekly coupons of 40 to 50 percent off were applied to yarn almost every week. JOANN yarn sale events also followed seasonal patterns, with the biggest discounts usually in January for post-holiday clearance, May for summer projects, and October for fall and winter crafting. Cotton yarn JOANN sale pricing often dropped worsted weight cotton to around $3 to $4 per skein during these coupon weeks.
The JOANN yarn department clearance bins were another major source of savings, offering discontinued colors at 50 to 70 percent off regular prices. These clearance sections were especially useful for buying multiple skeins in matching dye lots before they sold out completely. Today, similar value deals are often found through Amazon lightning deals and weekly 40 percent off coupons at Hobby Lobby. Searches for JOANN yarn sale schedules now mostly lead to older community discussions rather than active store promotions.
Why Cotton Yarn Was a Core Category at JOANN Fabrics
Cotton yarn was one of the highest-demand yarn categories in the JOANN yarn department because it was useful for many different types of projects. JOANN organized its yarn aisle by fiber type and weight, keeping house brands like Big Twist and K+C Essentials at eye level, with national brands such as Lion Brand and Lily Sugar and Cream placed nearby for easy comparison.
Weekly 40 to 50 percent off coupons made cotton yarn one of the most affordable natural fiber options at any major craft retailer. Store brands like Big Twist and K+C also gave JOANN a pricing advantage because they could be discounted more aggressively than national brands. Cotton yarn was also a year-round staple, unlike seasonal yarns that rotate in and out. It stayed in the core section all year, making it easy for customers to find the same colors and weights whenever needed.
This steady availability made JOANN cotton yarn a common choice for crafters who wanted reliable stock and consistent color options without waiting for seasonal releases.
JOANN vs Michaels vs Hobby Lobby for Cotton Yarn
| Feature | JOANN Historical | Michaels | Hobby Lobby |
|---|---|---|---|
| House brand cotton | Big Twist, K+C | Loops and Threads | I Love This Cotton |
| 100% cotton options | Yes, multiple | Limited | Yes |
| Mercerized cotton | Yes | Limited | Limited |
| Organic cotton | Occasional | Rare | Rare |
| Weight range | Lace to bulky | Worsted dominant | Worsted dominant |
| Color range | Very wide | Moderate | Moderate |
| Coupon culture | 40 to 50% weekly | 20% app coupon | 40% weekly |
| Yarn brands stocked | Big Twist, K+C, Lion Brand | Loops, Lion Brand | Yarn Bee, Lion Brand |
| Post-closure access | Amazon | In-store | In-store |
JOANN had one of the widest cotton yarn selections among major craft chains. After store closures, many shoppers looked for similar in-store options. Hobby Lobby’s I Love This Cotton Yarn is often seen as most practical substitute for JOANN’s K+C and Big Twist cotton lines because it offers similar weight, softness, and ease of use for everyday projects. For full comparisons of other yarn substitutes that were once stocked at JOANN, you can also refer to Bernat Blanket yarn guide for broader brand alternatives.
Cotton Yarn at JOANN: Historical Context
JOANN organized cotton yarn in a separate section of the yarn aisle, kept apart from acrylic, wool, and specialty fibers. Most shelf space was given to worsted weight cotton because it was the most commonly used for dishcloths, kitchen items, and simple garments. The yarn bins in stores allowed customers to feel texture, read fiber details, and compare colors side by side, which was very helpful for matching dye lots before buying multiple skeins.
Many shoppers searching for joann cotton yarn or cotton yarn joann fabrics were actually looking for the K+C Essentials line, which built a strong following due to its consistent gauge, 100% cotton fiber, and steady color availability. JOANN cotton yarn included both K+C worsted options and Big Twist cotton across several weights, from DK to bulky. Searches for joann fabric cotton yarn show that many customers preferred these house brands because they were reliable and easy to find in-store over time. Reviews of cotton yarn JOANN often highlighted K+C for its consistent skein length and good wash performance across dye lots.
For a broader look at cotton as a fiber and its use in fabric and craft applications, you can explore general cotton fabric joann guides that explain how this natural material behaves in different forms.
Alternatives to Discontinued JOANN Cotton Yarn
| Discontinued Yarn | Weight | Yardage | Best Substitute | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Twist Cotton | Worsted 4 | 180 yards | Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton | Amazon, Michaels |
| K+C Essential Cotton | Worsted 4 | 180 yards | Paintbox Simply Cotton | Amazon |
| K+C DK Cotton | DK 3 | 220 yards | Drops Safran | Amazon |
| Big Twist Bulky Cotton | Bulky 5 | 120 yards | Lion Brand Re-Up Cotton | Amazon |
Where to Buy Cotton Yarn After JOANN Store Changes
Amazon now carries the widest selection of cotton yarn, including 100% cotton worsted weight, mercerized cotton, organic cotton, DK weight, and bulk skeins from brands like Lion Brand, Paintbox, Drops, Cascade, and Rico. Free shipping limits often make online cotton yarn JOANN alternatives competitive with in-store pricing when buying multiple skeins at once.
Hobby Lobby offers I Love This Cotton Yarn as the closest in-store replacement for JOANN cotton yarn, with similar softness, weight options, and easy handling for everyday projects.
Michaels stocks Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton as its main worsted weight 100% cotton option, making it one of the most direct in-store substitutes for discontinued JOANN cotton yarn lines.
Many customers who previously used “joann fabrics near me” to check cotton yarn availability now rely more on online ordering through Amazon for faster access and wider color selection. For a full breakdown of yarn types that were once available at JOANN, you can also refer to a complete JOANN yarn category guide for comparison and substitution options.
Care and Washing Cotton Yarn Projects
| Cotton Yarn Type | Washing | Drying | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% cotton worsted | Machine wash warm or cool | Tumble dry low or air dry | May shrink slightly on first wash |
| Mercerized cotton | Machine wash cool | Air dry flat | Preserves sheen best when air dried |
| Organic cotton | Machine wash cool gentle | Air dry flat | Avoid high heat to preserve fiber |
| Cotton blend | Follow blend care label | Varies | Acrylic blend — machine dry low |
| Milk cotton blend | Hand wash cool | Air dry flat | Protein fiber requires gentle handling |

Frequently Asked Questions
What is cotton yarn?
A natural plant fiber yarn spun from cotton fibers. It creates a breathable, hypoallergenic, and absorbent yarn with clear stitch definition. Cotton has low elasticity compared to wool or acrylic, so it does not stretch or bounce back easily.
Is cotton yarn good for crochet?
Yes. Cotton yarn for crochet gives very sharp stitch definition because the low stretch holds each stitch in place. It is best to use plied cotton yarn and a metal hook to reduce splitting while working.
Does JOANN still sell cotton yarn?
Physical JOANN stores have closed after restructuring in 2025. Cotton yarn previously sold under Big Twist and K+C Essentials is now discontinued. Similar cotton yarn options are available through Amazon, Hobby Lobby, and Michaels.
What brands of cotton yarn did JOANN carry?
JOANN yarn department mainly included Big Twist cotton, K+C Essential cotton, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, and Lily Sugar and Cream as the main cotton yarn options.
Is Big Twist cotton yarn 100% cotton?
Yes. Big Twist cotton yarn was made from 100% cotton in worsted weight and was commonly sold in around 180 yards per 3.5 oz skein. It has now been discontinued after JOANN store closures.
Is mercerized cotton yarn better for crochet?
Yes for most projects. Mercerized cotton has a smoother finish, stronger fiber structure, better dye hold, and less splitting compared to unmercerized cotton, making it easier to crochet with.
Does cotton yarn stretch?
Very little. Cotton has low elasticity and no real memory, so it does not spring back after stretching. This gives clean stitches but requires careful tension control.
Is cotton yarn good for summer garments?
Yes. Cotton is breathable, lightweight, and cool on the skin. It is commonly used for summer tops, cardigans, and beach cover-ups because it allows airflow and feels comfortable in warm weather.
What weight is most cotton yarn sold at JOANN?
Worsted weight (weight 4) was the most common cotton yarn weight in the JOANN yarn department, used across Big Twist, K+C, and Lion Brand cotton lines.
What is the best substitute for K+C Essential cotton yarn?
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton and Paintbox Simply Cotton are the closest matches in terms of weight, gauge, yardage, and 100% cotton fiber content.
Can cotton yarn be used for amigurumi?
Yes. Amigurumi cotton yarn creates clean stitch definition that helps shape toys clearly. Use DK or worsted weight cotton and go one hook size smaller than recommended for tighter stitches.
