How to Care for Hand-Knit Wool & Cotton

July 18, 2026

Why Hand-Knit Pieces Need Special Care

Every Artezan piece is crafted using traditional hand flat knitting and hand linking techniques — a process that gives each garment its distinctive texture, drape, and character. Because these fibres are worked by hand rather than machine, they retain a natural elasticity and softness that rewards gentle handling.

Whether you're caring for a wool jumper or a cotton polo, the principles are the same: treat the fibre with respect, and it will reward you with years of wear.

Caring for Hand-Knit Wool

Washing

Always hand wash in cool or lukewarm water (max 30°C). Hot water causes wool to felt and shrink irreversibly.
Use a gentle, wool-safe detergent or a small amount of baby shampoo. Avoid anything with enzymes or bleach.
Submerge the garment and gently squeeze — never wring, twist, or rub. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly in water of the same temperature to avoid shocking the fibres.

Drying

Gently press out excess water by rolling the garment in a clean dry towel.
Lay flat on a fresh towel or drying rack, reshaping to its original dimensions while damp.
Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause fading and fibre damage.
Never hang a wet wool knit — the weight of the water will stretch it out of shape.

Storage

Fold, never hang. Hanging causes knits to stretch at the shoulders over time.
Store in a breathable cotton bag or a drawer. Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture.
Add cedar blocks or lavender sachets to deter moths naturally.
Air your pieces between wears — wool is naturally self-cleaning and odour-resistant.

Caring for Hand-Knit Cotton

Cotton is more forgiving than wool but still benefits from gentle handling, especially in hand-knit form where the stitch structure is more open and delicate.

Hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent, or use a machine's delicate/hand-wash cycle in a mesh laundry bag.
Cotton can handle slightly warmer water than wool, but keep it under 40°C to preserve colour and shape.
Lay flat to dry just as you would with wool. Cotton knits can stretch when hung wet.
A cool iron on the reverse side can refresh the fabric if needed — avoid ironing directly on textured stitches.

Pilling: What It Is and What to Do

Pilling is a natural result of fibre friction and is not a sign of poor quality — in fact, it often indicates a high natural fibre content. Remove pills gently with a fabric comb or a dedicated lint shaver, working in one direction across the surface.