Knitting with SECRET GARDEN

SECRET GARDEN — Lang Yarns (review)

Some yarns reveal themselves straight away; others take their time. SECRET GARDEN is very much the latter — a DK with personality that unfolds as you knit. After working this yarn across a lace shawl, a fitted cardigan and a handful of smaller projects, I can honestly say it changed how I think about texture and colour. Each stitch feels like a small discovery.

Quick specs

• Yarn name: SECRET GARDEN — Lang Yarns

• Composition: 84% cotton, 16% recycled nylon

• Length / Weight: ~240 m / 50 g

• Gauge: 21 sts & 36 rows = 10 cm (stocking stitch)

• Needle size: 3.5–4.0 mm (I used 3.5 mm for crisper definition)

• Tested projects: Lace triangular shawl; fitted cardigan with seed stitch panels

• Care: Machine wash at 30°C with a wool/special detergent; reshape and dry flat

First impression
The ball feels substantial yet cool to the touch — cotton with a little more edge thanks to the recycled nylon. It’s not immediately showy; its charm is quieter. Unwind it slowly and you start to notice subtle tonal shifts and texture that suggest there’s more happening beneath the surface.

Knitting experience
I found 3.5 mm gave the best balance of definition and control for lace and textured panels, while 4.0 mm produces a softer drape for garments that should sit lightly. The yarn behaves reliably through yarn-overs and decreases: stitch definition is pleasing, and the recycled nylon gives enough structure to hold shaping without losing softness.

Project highlights
My lace triangular shawl was the clearest example of this yarn’s magic. Sections that looked even in the ball bloomed into delicate variations of shade and texture as the knitting progressed — a literal garden of stitches. The cardigan, worked in moss stitch and cables, showed off how the yarn’s character complements both simple and complex patterns.

Practicality & care
The machine washability at 30°C is an astute touch. It makes these tactile, interesting pieces genuinely wearable: you can reach for them often without worrying about delicate maintenance. I still advise using a gentle cycle, wool detergent and drying flat to preserve drape.

Sustainability
The inclusion of recycled nylon feels thoughtful: it improves durability and stitch memory while keeping a largely natural fibre base. For makers who want both environmental sense and performance, this blend is persuasive.

Value and verdict
With roughly 240 metres per 50 g, one ball stretches further than you might expect — two to three balls cover most accessories; garments will need more. SECRET GARDEN is not about perfectly matching swatches to pattern photos; it’s about embracing subtle, evolving beauty. If you enjoy lace and textured work that becomes more interesting as it grows, this yarn will reward you with unique, wearable results.