Plötulopi
Icelandic plötulopi (plotulopi = unspun plates) - 100% new wool yarn each unit is 100-110 g (3.5 oz) approx. 300 m (328yd).
Since Plötulopi is an unspun yarn, it is fragile to knit; however, due to the length of its fibres, it knits into a sweater that is both sturdy and soft.
Gauge-1 ply: 19 sts to 10 cm (4") over St st using size 4½ mm (Old UK 7) (US 7).
Gauge-2 ply: 14 sts to 10 cm (4") over St st using size 5½ mm (Old UK 5) (US 9).
Plötulopi is another type of Icelandic wool yarn. It is unique among the Lopi yarns and offers different properties and uses. Here are some key features and details about Plötulopi:
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Form: Unlike traditional spun yarns, Plötulopi is an unspun roving. It comes in the form of a flat, circular "plate" or "wheel," rather than a skein. This makes it very delicate to handle, as it can break easily if not treated gently.
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Weight and Thickness: Plötulopi can be considered versatile because it can be used in various ways. It can be knitted single, double, or even triple-stranded, depending on the desired thickness and warmth of the final fabric. Single-stranded, it is comparable to a lace weight yarn, while double or triple-stranded, it can approximate a worsted or bulky weight yarn.
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Texture and Feel: Plötulopi has a very soft and airy texture. Despite its delicacy in the unspun form, once knitted and washed, it becomes a cohesive and warm fabric. It retains the slightly rustic feel of Icelandic wool, with a gentle halo and a soft touch.
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Warmth and Insulation: Because of its loftiness and the nature of unspun wool, Plötulopi creates exceptionally warm and lightweight garments. The air trapped between the fibers provides excellent insulation.
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Color Range: Plötulopi is available in a variety of natural and dyed colors. The range allows for beautiful colorwork, typical of Icelandic knitting patterns, and can be used to create stunning visual effects in garments.
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Durability: Although Plötulopi is delicate to work with, the finished garments are quite durable, especially after the wool fibers have been wet-finished (washed and blocked). The fibers interlock during washing, making the fabric stronger and more cohesive.
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Cultural Significance: Plötulopi is also used in traditional Icelandic knitting, including the famous lopapeysa sweaters. The ability to use it in multiple strands allows for customization of the fabric's thickness and warmth, making it a favorite for versatile projects.
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Environmental Impact: Like other Ístex yarns, Plötulopi is produced with sustainability in mind. The wool is sourced from local Icelandic sheep, and the production processes are designed to minimize environmental impact.
Tips for Knitting with Plötulopi:
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Gentle Handling: Since it is unspun, handle Plötulopi carefully to avoid breaking the yarn. If it does break, it can easily be overlapped and rejoined.
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Multiple Strands: Experiment with using multiple strands to achieve different textures and weights.
- Washing and Blocking: Finished items should be washed and blocked to allow the fibers to bloom and interlock, enhancing the strength and softness of the fabric.
