DONEGAL TWEED +
Worsted / Aran
4.5-5.0mm
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• Spun and dyed in Donegal, Ireland

• Transforms after washing

• Excellent for cable patterns

Knitting with DONEGAL TWEED +

by
James McIntosh

DONEGAL TWEED + (a review)

DONEGAL TWEED + feels like knitting with a little piece of Irish folklore. Each strand holds flecks of colour like wildflowers scattered across green hills, and the rustic grip in your hands is as grounding as walking a coastal path. Then comes the magic—wash it once, and the yarn blooms into softness, revealing the quiet beauty it’s been holding all along.

My First Impressions

DONEGAL TWEED + by Lang Yarns is an authentic piece of Irish textile heritage. Spun and dyed in Donegal, this yarn carries the unmistakeable texture, colour flecks, and traditional character that define true tweed. The retained spinning oils and slight variations in thickness are a hallmark of quality, not imperfection, and hint at the beautiful transformation that occurs after the first wash.

Quick Specs

  • Composition: 100% Virgin Wool

  • Length / Weight: 105 m / 50 g

  • Origin: Spun and dyed in Donegal, Ireland

  • Recommended Needles: 4.75 mm

  • Tension: 17 sts = 25 cm

  • Tested Project: Traditional Aran cardigan

  • Needle Used: 4.75 mm

  • Care: Machine wash at 30°C, reshape and dry flat

Knitting Experience

Using 4.75 mm needles, I found the yarn had a satisfying, slightly rustic grip that made working traditional cables and textured stitches a joy. The natural variations brought subtle depth to the fabric, creating interest in every row. It feels connected to centuries of Irish craftsmanship — there’s an almost meditative quality to knitting with such a storied yarn.

Wearing and Performance

After the first wash, the fabric bloomed beautifully. The cardigan developed a softer hand while retaining its robust structure, and the authentic tweed character came alive. The finished garment was warm, breathable, and full of personality — exactly what you want from a true Donegal tweed.

Where DONEGAL TWEED + Excels

  • Heirloom projects such as Aran sweaters and cable knits

  • Cultural accessories that celebrate Irish heritage

  • Timeless outer layers with authentic tweed character

  • Pieces designed to last for decades

Yarn Characteristics

  • Virgin Wool Authenticity: 100% virgin wool for traditional warmth and durability.

  • Donegal Provenance: Spun and dyed in the legendary Donegal region of Ireland.

  • Traditional Tweed Texture: Unique flecking and character from time-honoured methods.

  • Blooming Properties: Softens and develops body after washing.

Care & Practicality

Despite its traditional roots, DONEGAL TWEED + is machine washable at 30°C, making it more practical for everyday wear than most heritage yarns. The wash not only cleans but activates the bloom, enhancing softness and stitch definition.

Value for Money

For those who value authenticity and longevity, DONEGAL TWEED + is a worthy investment. The price reflects not just the material but the history, craftsmanship, and heritage you’re working with. Finished pieces have a significance and depth that synthetic imitations simply can’t replicate.

Final Verdict

DONEGAL TWEED + is more than just a yarn — it’s a living connection to Irish textile history. The virgin wool, Donegal county, and blooming transformation combine to create garments that are rich in texture, warmth, and authenticity. If you want your knitting to tell a story that will last for generations, this is the yarn to choose.