Paper yarn / paper cord

Normally, when we talk about yarn and twine, we are talking about natural fibres, like cotton, wool and the like. But alternative materials offer new and exciting possibilities - which is why paper cord is also a world of its own when it comes to creative expression.

Here you'll find a huge range of paper cord in a variety of colours that can be used for a whole host of exciting creative hobbies.

What is paper yarn?

Actually, paper yarn - also known as paper string - is just what the word says. It's yarn made from hard-twisted paper strips that are dyed, giving the finished product a wonderful combination of the paper's properties and the yarn's uses.

Like all paper, the paper used for paper yarn is also made from cellulose and wood fibres. The paper is then cut into long strips, which are twisted on a special machine that ensures that the yarn has the same surface and hardness.

Paper yarn comes in a variety of thicknesses and hardnesses, but what they all have in common is great durability and strength, making it ideal for a range of projects that can't be done with ordinary wool or cotton yarn.

What can you make with paper yarn?

Just like yarns made from other materials, paper yarns are great for knitting and weaving. But because it's harder and stiffer to work with, as well as having a greater durability, it's not an obvious choice for the same projects.

Paper yarn for knitting

With paper yarn, there are lots of opportunities to let your imagination run wild and instead of sweaters and baby clothes, you can work on bags, blankets and the like.

It's a yarn that can be shaped more firmly, and holds its shape in a completely different way to the more vibrant fibres you know from regular knitting. For example, if you want to knit a bag or a net, you'll be able to knit while the yarn is wet and a little more pliable, then dry the finished result into shape and it will hold its shape nicely in the future.

Paper cord for weaving

Woven rugs are one of the really obvious things to do with paper yarn, and because it comes in so many different colours you can create the most beautiful and colourful rugs on the loom. What's more, the yarn's advantages really come into their own when you're weaving rugs, as its slightly hard surface and great strength give you a durable rug that gets prettier and softer over time.

Paper yarn for weaving

One of the most popular uses of paper yarn is for leaf binding or basket weaving, where a piece of thick string or rope is wrapped in paper yarn and sewn together to form baskets or jars with small gaps between them. It has become really popular again over the last few years after being forgotten for a long time. However, the technique has roots far back in time, so both the technique itself and the history behind it are fascinating.

Paper yarn has the great advantage of being strong and extremely durable, but this also means that it can be hard on the hands to work with. So you might want to consider softening it up a bit as you work. This is easily done by either wrapping the key in a damp cloth or simply leaving it in water while you work.

Buy your paper yarn from us

In our creative universe, we're constantly working to expand and improve our range so you can always find exactly what you're looking for - and more - when you shop with us.

Our staff are always on hand to answer your questions or offer advice or guidance if there's anything you're unsure about. We look forward to hearing from you and helping with your creative projects.