wool or acrylic

[pineknott]

I'm looking to do some charity squares,I have alot of unmarked yarn,is there a test to tell if its acrylic,I remember something about a lit match,is it that it bubbles up if its acrylic and not wool,thanks in advance.Linda

[crochet smartcat]

Here is a link to the different results you will get for the different types of fiber, if you burn a yarn sample. I have also heard that if you put a sample in bleach and it dissolves completely, it is wool, not so completely a wool blend. Hope this helps.

[Gran]

Very useful info on that link, thanks!

[pineknott]

Thank you,that helps me out alot.Linda

[DainaJ]

Here is a tip I got from the felting forum - crochet a couple of stitches and rub under running water. If the sample felts, it's wool. Easier and safer than burning or bleaching!

[Catana]

Daina, not all wool felts, and even some that does won't do it that easily. I find that burning is the quickest and most reliable test. Synthetics melt into a hard shiney ball, wool and other naturals form an ash.