How many Ringo yarn cakes do I need to make a women’s size M cardigan?

For a women’s size M cardigan (with long sleeves and medium length to the hips), you will need on average 6-7 Ringo yarn cakes of 100g, for a total of about 1620-1890 metres of yarn. The exact quantity depends on the chosen pattern, sleeve length and stitch used. For projects with three-quarter sleeves or sleeveless garments (vests), the quantity drops to 4-5 yarn cakes. We recommend checking the video tutorials available on the product page for project-specific estimates and always purchasing one extra yarn cake as a safety reserve, making sure it comes from the same dye lot listed on Tessiland.

How does Ringo behave when washed? Will the shades fade?

Ringo keeps its shades beautifully over time when treated correctly. The top-dyed process ensures good colour fastness, higher than yarns dyed after spinning. During the first 2-3 washes, a slight release of colour is normal, especially in deeper shades: wash separately or with similar colours. After the initial washes, the shades stabilise and the garment can be washed regularly following the care instructions (water maximum 30°C, delicate cycles). Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight while drying in order to preserve colour intensity.

Does the artichoke shape make the yarn difficult to use? How does it unwind?

The artichoke shape is designed to make crafting easier, not harder. The yarn unwinds from the inside of the yarn cake, exactly like a traditional yarn ball, by gently pulling the end that comes from the centre. There is no need to rewind it into a skein. While working, keep the yarn cake in a bowl or container to stop it from rolling around, just as you would with any other yarn cake. The artichoke shape also has the advantage of visually showing the shades you are about to work with, helping you predict colour transitions in your project.

What is the difference between Ringo and other gradient yarns available on Tessiland?

Ringo stands out for its combination of format, composition and dyeing technique. Unlike traditional gradient yarns in skeins, the artichoke shape makes the shades immediately visible. Its 50% wool and 50% top quality acrylic composition places it in an accessible price range while maintaining high quality, unlike more expensive 100% wool yarns or cheaper 100% acrylic yarns with lower performance. The top-dyed process creates more natural and less abrupt transitions than yarns with colour changes at regular intervals. The 270m/100g ratio makes it more versatile than heavier yarns, suitable for both lightweight accessories and structured garments.

Is Ringo suitable for children’s projects?

Yes, Ringo is perfect for children’s garments. The wool content provides thermoregulation and breathability, while the acrylic adds durability for the frequent washing that children’s clothes require. The softness of the yarn makes it comfortable even against sensitive skin. The degradé shades add an original touch to sweaters, cardigans and blankets without requiring complex techniques. Important: choose delicate shades and always check that the child does not have any specific wool allergies. After finishing the piece, do a first hand wash before use to remove any possible production residue.

How can I combine multiple Ringo yarn cakes in the same project while keeping colour harmony?

For larger projects requiring several yarn cakes, always buy yarn cakes from the same dye lot: Tessiland clearly indicates the available dye lot number on the product page. If you need to combine different lots or different colours from the Ringo range, choose shades that share at least one common tone to create visual continuity. An effective technique is to alternate yarn cakes every 2 rows/rounds to gradually blend the different shades. For panel-based projects (such as patchwork blankets), you can deliberately use different colours to create harmonious contrasts. If in doubt, contact Tessiland customer service for personalised advice on colour matching.

What does it mean that variation in fibre length is a feature and not a defect?

In the production of Ringo, the fibres used have intentionally varied lengths, rather than being uniform like standard industrial yarns. This characteristic comes from the top-dyed process and the manufacturing method aimed at creating a particular visual effect. While working, you may notice that some sections of the yarn look slightly fuzzier or that the twist varies a little: this is normal and contributes to the final texture of the fabric, adding depth and movement. It is not a production defect but a deliberate feature that makes every yarn cake and every creation unique. This controlled irregularity is appreciated precisely for the handmade, artisanal effect it gives to the finished garment.

Is Ringo suitable for openwork or lace crochet?

Ringo can be used for simple openwork projects, but it is not the ideal yarn for elaborate lace or highly detailed crochet work. Its gradient nature and blended composition perform best with stitches that create continuous surfaces where the colour transitions can fully stand out: stockinette, garter stitch, single crochet and half double crochet. For simple openwork such as shawls with basic geometric motifs or summer tops with regular eyelets, the result is still very appealing. If your goal is to make intricate crochet doilies or traditional lacework, we recommend choosing finer cotton or linen yarns, which are better suited to highlighting complex stitch details.

Should I make a swatch before starting a project with Ringo?

Yes, making a swatch is always recommended, even with Ringo. Work a square of at least 10x10 cm using the needles or crochet hook you plan to use, with the same stitch pattern as your final project. Wash and dry the swatch following the care instructions, then measure how many stitches and rows/rounds you get in 10 cm. This allows you to: accurately calculate the number of yarn cakes needed, check whether your tension matches the pattern, evaluate how the shades look with the chosen stitch, and assess drape and fabric texture. Keep the swatch as a reference for any adjustments during the project and as a reminder for future makes.

How do I manage joins between yarn cakes to keep the colour flow looking continuous?

To minimise the visual impact of joins in a project made with Ringo, follow these strategies: start the new yarn cake at a seam point (side seam, underarm) where the join will be less visible. If possible, try to match similar tones between the end of one yarn cake and the beginning of the next, although the nature of the top-dyed process generally creates harmonious transitions. Use a weaver’s knot or felt-free join technique to connect the ends without creating too much bulk. For seamless circular projects, plan joins in strategic spots such as the centre back. Avoid breaking the yarn in the middle of a highly visible front section. Thanks to its generous length (270m per yarn cake), the number of joins required is limited in most projects.

Is Ringo prone to pilling with use?

Like all yarns containing natural fibres, Ringo may show a slight amount of pilling at first, especially in areas subject to more friction such as under the arms, on the sides or at the cuffs. This is more noticeable during early wear and usually settles after the first few washes. The top quality acrylic content helps significantly reduce pilling compared to 100% wool yarns. To minimise it: avoid excessive rubbing against rough surfaces (backpacks, shoulder bags with harsh textures), gently remove pills with a fabric shaver or your fingers without pulling hard, and wash garments inside out to reduce friction in the washing machine. With proper care, pilling remains a minor issue and does not compromise the garment’s look or durability.

Can I use Ringo for summer projects, or is it too warm?

Ringo is a mid-season yarn that can also work well for lightweight summer projects if used with the right approach. For summer use: choose larger needles or hooks (5mm needles, 4.5mm crochet hook) to create a more open and breathable fabric, favour openwork stitches that allow air to circulate, make sleeveless garments such as tops, tanks or vests that leave the arms uncovered, and create lightweight stoles or shawls for cool evenings or air-conditioned environments. Even though the wool content is only 50%, it still offers natural thermoregulation that helps maintain a comfortable body temperature. For projects intended for peak summer or very hot climates, consider 100% cotton or linen yarns available on Tessiland.