What can I knit with a single 120g ball of Sock Flock yarn?
Each 120g ball contains approximately 420 metres (459 yards) of 4-ply yarn — enough for:
- 1 pair of adult socks (including most men's UK sizes)
- 1 adult beanie or hat
- 1 baby hat, plus matching booties or mittens
- 1 short neckwarmer or fine-gauge cowl
For full shawls, sweaters, or long scarves, you'll typically need 2 or more balls.
Will 120g be enough for large shoe sizes?
Yes. One 120g ball is suitable for knitting socks up to around UK size 11–12 (EU 46, US 12) depending on length and stitch pattern. If you're knitting taller socks or using cables, you may want to allow a second ball for certainty.
Can I make multiple socks from one ball?
Yes — for smaller socks UK sizes 3-8 (EU 36-42, US 5-10), one ball yields three socks. That means you can knit 3 pairs from just 2 balls.
Is one 120g ball enough for a shawl or scarf?
You can knit a small shawlette or a narrow scarf with 120g of 4-ply yarn. For full-sized shawls or long wraps, most patterns require 600–800m, so you’ll likely need 2 balls.
Can I make baby clothes with 120g?
Yes — 120g is more than enough for most newborn to 6-month baby garments, such as a cardigan, leggings, or romper. Always check your pattern’s yarn requirement, especially for older baby or toddler sizes.
What else can I make with 420 metres of yarn?
Sock Flock yarn is ideal for making other garments and accessories, not just socks. 420 metres is enough for a shawl, baby blanket, beanie and mitt set, or a short-sleeved adult top.
Why is 120g better than 100g?
Our oversized 120g balls mean:
- Fewer joins in your projects
- More generous yardage (420m instead of the typical 360–400m)
- Better value per meter compared to standard 100g skeins
It’s especially handy for sock knitters and anyone who prefers fewer breaks in colour transitions.
Is Sock Flock compatible with 4-ply or fingering weight patterns?
Yes — Sock Flock is a true 4-ply/fingering weight yarn. It works seamlessly with patterns written for that gauge, whether for socks, shawls, or lightweight garments.
What knitting needle size do you recommend for Sock Flock?
For best results, we recommend using knitting needles in the range of 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm (US sizes 1½ to 4). This range is ideal for creating durable, well-defined stitches — especially in socks, where structure and resilience matter.
- 2.5 mm needles produce a firmer, denser fabric that’s perfect for long-lasting socks and fitted accessories.
- 3.0 to 3.5 mm needles create a slightly softer, more flexible drape, suitable for shawls, baby knits, or lighter garments.
Always swatch before starting your project, as gauge may vary depending on tension, stitch pattern, and desired finish.
Can I use Sock Flock for crochet projects?
Absolutely. Sock Flock crochets beautifully, especially for fine accessories like lace-edged shawls, gloves, and babywear. Its smooth texture and springy twist give excellent stitch definition.
What crochet hook size should I use with Sock Flock?
We recommend a crochet hook size between 2.25 mm and 3.25 mm, epending on your stitch tension and the structure of your project. This corresponds to US sizes B-1 to D-3 and UK sizes 13 to 10. For firmer or more structured items, use the smaller end of the range; for drapier fabrics, use the larger.
Can I machine wash Sock Flock yarn?
Yes — Sock Flock is Superwash-treated and safe for machine washing at 40°C or below. Use a gentle cycle and mild detergent.
Will my items shrink in the wash?
No — our Superwash-treated yarn is designed to prevent shrinking when washed at 40°C. This applies not only to socks, but also to other Sock Flock projects like beanies, scarves, and baby garments. Just be sure to follow standard care instructions.
Will the colours fade or bleed over time?
Sock Flock is colourfast under normal washing conditions. Darker shades may release a small amount of dye on the first wash, but after that, you can expect long-lasting vibrancy. These yarns are designed to hold their colour beautifully, wash after wash, year after year.
Do I need to block my finished project?
Blocking is optional for socks but recommended for shawls and garments to shape and relax the stitches.
Can I tumble dry Sock Flock items?
No — we recommend air drying to preserve stitch definition and elasticity.
Can I iron my socks?
We don’t recommend ironing your finished socks. Sock Flock yarn is designed to hold its shape without the need for pressing. If needed, a light steam blocking (without direct contact) can help relax stitches — but always avoid placing a hot iron directly on the fabric, as heat can damage the wool fibres and affect the elasticity.
What happens if I bleach Sock Flock yarn?
Do not use bleach on Sock Flock yarn. Bleach and harsh whitening agents can damage the natural wool fibres and strip colour from the yarn. For best results, wash with a mild, wool-safe detergent and avoid any products containing chlorine or optical brighteners.
Where can I learn more about Superwash wool?
The Woolmark Company offers clear information on Superwash treatment — how it works, its benefits, and certification standards. Visit Woolmark and search 'Superwash' for guides and FAQs.
Is Sock Flock suitable for sensitive skin or babies?
Yes — every batch of Sock Flock yarn is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, meaning it's free from harmful substances and safe for use against sensitive skin, including babies and pets. The wool is also Superwash-treated to minimise irritation and pilling.
Will my socks leave unsightly rings around my ankles?
Almost certainly not! One of the unexpected joys of wearing well-made wool socks is their gentle grip. It's one of the reasons we switched to wool years ago. Our soft, durable yarn is designed to hold without digging in—no tight elastic, no harsh marks. Just comfortable, breathable socks that stay put without leaving a trace.
Is Sock Flock safe for pets or pet clothing?
Yes — Sock Flock is soft, durable, and OEKO-TEX® certified, meaning it’s free from harmful chemicals and gentle on paws and fur. It’s ideal for small pet garments, booties, or blankets.
Does your yarn use any harmful chemicals?
No. Sock Flock is certified to OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, which means it contains no harmful substances. It is also Superwash-treated using an eco-compliant process, making it safe for skin and the environment.
Where can I learn more about OEKO-TEX certification?
Visit OEKO-TEX® to explore how the Standard 100 label works, what it tests for, and why it's trusted globally. The site includes consumer tools and transparency guides.
What is Sock Flock yarn made from?
Sock Flock is spun from 75% New Zealand wool and 25% polyamide, as listed on the label. The wool provides softness, warmth, and breathability, while the polyamide adds structure and durability — making the yarn ideal for long-lasting socks and other hard-wearing projects.
What is polyamide?
Polyamide is the technical term for a family of synthetic fibres that includes all types of nylon. In Sock Flock, the polyamide used is Nylon-6 (PA6) — a high-performance fibre chosen for its flexibility, softness, and dye stability.
Why include nylon in Sock Flock yarn?
Wool alone can lack stretch and durability for hard-wearing items like socks. Nylon-6 adds strength, elasticity, and helps your handmade pieces hold their shape over time. This makes it ideal for socks, as it helps prevent holes in heels and toes — but it's also great for baby clothes, mitts, and accessories that need both softness and resilience.
How is Nylon-6 different from other nylons like PA66 or PA4?
Nylon-6 (PA6), used in Sock Flock, is softer and more flexible than PA66, making it ideal for garments. It also absorbs more moisture, helping it hold dye better. PA66 is tougher but stiffer — more suited to carpets and industrial textiles. PA4, which is sometimes labelled biodegradable, is rare in yarns and not used in our production.
Does Sock Flock shed fibres or release microplastics?
Very little. The yarn is spun with a tight twist and high-quality fibres, reducing the chance of shedding during wear or washing. While Nylon-6 is a synthetic fibre, we recommend using a mesh laundry bag during machine washes to help reduce microfibre release even further.
Are the fibres used in Sock Flock certified for safety and quality?
Yes — every batch of Sock Flock is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, meaning it’s tested for over 100 harmful substances and declared safe for human contact, including for babies. Our yarn is also produced in a BSCI-audited facility, ensuring ethical labour and environmental responsibility at every stage.
Is Sock Flock a sustainable yarn?
Sock Flock is made with New Zealand wool from pasture-raised flocks on high-welfare farms. Our wool is mulesing-free, naturally renewable, and processed in facilities that meet OEKO-TEX® environmental standards.
Are New Zealand sheep farms environmentally responsible?
Yes — our wool comes from farms that follow national sustainability guidelines. Sheep farms follow national guidance like the Resource Management Act, which includes rotational grazing, soil health
monitoring, and water protection measures designed to balance production with long-term sustainability and ecosystem protection.
Is wool better for the environment than synthetic yarns?
Yes. Wool is 100% natural and renewable, breaking down in soil within months. Unlike acrylic or polyester yarns, it doesn’t shed
microplastics or contribute to long-term plastic pollution. Even with nylon blended in, Sock Flock is a lower-impact choice.
Is Sock Flock yarn biodegradable?
No, not entirely. Sock Flock uses Nylon-6 (PA6), a durable polyamide known for its strength and flexibility. It’s not biodegradable, but its longevity helps reduce waste from worn-out garments. Our focus is on lasting quality and minimal shedding, not fast breakdown.
Do you use recycled materials for packaging?
Yes. We exclusively use recycled plastic mailing bags when fulfilling our orders.
How do you reduce your transport carbon footprint?
All of our yarn is shipped to the UK by sea — a method with up to 90% lower emissions than air freight. We share containers with other suppliers for additional efficiency, significantly reducing the carbon cost per item.
What’s the environmental impact of UK deliveries?
UK orders are delivered using Royal Mail and other consolidated courier services. These are among the lowest-emission last-mile options available.
What about international deliveries?
International orders are typically sent via standard air mail. While less efficient than sea or land transport, it remains the fastest method for global customers.
What certifications back up your environmental claims?
Sock Flock is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, meaning it's tested for over 100 harmful substances and meets global benchmarks for environmental safety. Our wool farms also follow the environmental rules of the New Zealand Farm Assurance Programme.
What laws protect sheep welfare in New Zealand?
Sheep in New Zealand are protected under the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and the Sheep and Beef Cattle Code of Welfare (2018). These set enforceable minimum standards covering nutrition, shelter, handling, transport, and the mandatory use of pain relief for procedures like tail docking and castration.
Compliance is overseen by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), with enforcement powers that include warnings, fines, and prosecution in serious cases.
What is the New Zealand's approach to sheep welfare?
New Zealand follows the Five Domains model — addressing nutrition, environment, health, behaviour, and mental state. The Code acknowledges animal sentience, meaning farmers must manage sheep for comfort and mental welfare — not just basic survival.
Are your wool fibres from audited, certified farms?
Yes. Over 95% of sheep/wool farms participate in the New Zealand Farm Assurance Programme, which requires independent audits every three years, covering animal health, handling, transport, and treatment during shearing.
Is your yarn mulesing-free?
Yes. Mulesing is banned in New Zealand and all our wool is certified mulesing-free. We only source from farms that guarantee humane animal treatment.
Is mulesing banned in New Zealand?
Yes — surgical mulesing has been legally banned in New Zealand since October 2018. Farmers use non-surgical methods like breech breeding, crutching, and insect controls to manage flystrike — aligning with animal welfare standards.
Article: PETA - New Zealand Bans Mulesing Mutilations of Sheep
Do you produce vegan wool?
No — Sock Flock contains natural wool. While we follow ethical sourcing, wool is an animal product and not considered vegan.
Where can I learn more about New Zealand farming standards?
MPI’s Code of Welfare – Sheep & Beef Cattle
https://www.mpi.govt.nz/animals/animal-welfare/codes/all-animal-welfare-codes/code-of-welfare-sheep-and-beef-cattle/
New Zealand Farm Assurance Programme (NZFAP)
https://www.nzfap.com/
Ministry for Primary Industries (Animal Welfare & Assurance)
https://www.mpi.govt.nz/animals/animal-welfare/
Is your yarn produced in ethical working conditions?
Yes. Our manufacturing partner is independently audited and certified under the Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI). This ensures fair labour practices, safe working conditions, and respect for workers’ rights throughout the supply chain.
What is BSCI certification and what does it cover?
BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative) is a globally recognised standard that covers fair wages, no child or forced labour, reasonable working hours, workplace safety, and environmental protection. Certification involves regular third-party audits and improvement commitments.
Why does it matter if a yarn brand is BSCI certified?
BSCI certification shows that a brand values people as well as products. When you buy BSCI-certified yarn, you're supporting responsible sourcing, ethical manufacturing, and better conditions for the workers behind the yarn — not just the fibre itself.
Is BSCI the same as Fair Trade?
No — BSCI and Fair Trade both promote ethical practices, but they’re different systems. BSCI is a workplace-focused standard used by many large manufacturers, while Fair Trade often supports smaller producer communities with guaranteed premiums. Sock Flock is made in a BSCI-certified facility.
Where can I learn more about BSCI certification?
You can visit the official BSCI platform www.amfori.org to read more about the Business Social Compliance Initiative and what it means for ethical sourcing. Look for their Code of Conduct and member commitments.
What should I do if my yarn is damaged or doesn’t meet expectations?
We visually inspect every ball before dispatch, but if something slips through — like excessive knots, damage, or a manufacturing fault — just let us know. We’ll replace it or refund you, no fuss.
Why do some balls of yarn contain knots or joins?
Knots or joins are a normal part of commercial yarn production — especially for longer skeins like ours. Each 120g ball of Sock Flock contains 420 metres of yarn, which increases the likelihood of a join.
Where joins exist, they’re tied and trimmed by our supplier and placed between colour transitions wherever possible.
If a ball doesn’t meet your expectations, just let us know. We’ll replace it — no quibbles.
Will different dye lots affect the final look of my project?
Yes — as with any dyed yarn, slight differences can occur between dye lots. If your project requires multiple balls, we recommend buying them together to ensure a consistent match. If you need to reorder later, let us know your original lot code and we’ll do our best to match it.
Why does the colour of the yarn look slightly different from the photo?
Lighting, screen settings, and natural variation in hand-dyed fibres can all affect how colours appear on screen. We photograph each colourway carefully, using consistent lighting and multiple angles to give you the most accurate, transparent representation possible — so that what you see is as close as possible to what you’ll receive.
What if my yarn tangles while I'm working with it?
Sock Flock is wound in a centre-pull ball for easy use, but sometimes the yarn can shift during transit. If you experience tangling, feel free to rewind it into a cake or skein using a yarn winder or by hand. If the
tangle reveals unexpected damage or faults, contact us and we’ll put it right.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes we offer tracked international shipping with options shown at checkout.
When will my order arrive?
We aim to dispatch your order the same day or next working day. UK delivery takes 1-2 days; international orders usually arrive within 7–10 days.
What should I do if my item hasn't arrived?
All our orders are sent via tracked delivery, so the first step is to check your tracking number to see the parcel’s current status. If the tracking appears stuck or no progress has been made, please contact us. We’ll investigate the issue directly with our delivery partner and keep you informed every step of the way.
What is your returns policy?
We offer 30-day returns for unused items in original condition. Faulty goods are refunded or replaced.