The Merino Wool Difference: Our Italian Yarns

Article published at: Mar 6, 2026 Article author: Noyac Knits Article tag: Biella yarn
Superfine Italian merino wool yarn spools used in Noyac Knits knitwear
All The Ribbon Review

Why We're Obsessed with Merino Wool

At Noyac Knits, everything starts with the yarn. We're pretty particular about it, actually—because we believe that great knitwear begins at the fiber level. That's why we exclusively use suppliers who share our commitment to quality, sustainability, and craftsmanship.

Merino wool is unrivaled when it comes to quality and touch. It's the oldest and best-known fiber in the world, prized for its silky sheen and incredible versatility. And honestly? Once you experience superfine merino, there's no going back.

Our Two Italian Yarns

We use two exceptional merino yarns, both sourced from Italy, both at 19.5 microns in thickness (that's the measurement that defines the finest merino fiber), and both certified to the highest standards for quality and sustainability.

Biella Yarn

Our Biella Yarn starts its journey from the pastures of Australia and New Zealand, where sheep graze in pristine environments. It then makes its way to Biella, Italy, a region renowned for its expertise in manufacturing premium textiles. Ultimately, it is shipped to Brooklyn, New York, where we knit our sweaters. This yarn carries both Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 and Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) certifications.

CASHWOOL®

Beginning next season, you'll also see pieces made with CASHWOOL® extrafine merino, developed in Baruffa, Italy. This is another Italian luxury yarn that's been engineered to be machine-washable without sacrificing any of the softness, shape retention, or quality you expect from premium merino. It's produced through a distinct process using eco-friendly methods including water recycling. Like Biella Yarn, it's also Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 and RWS certified.

Same 19.5-micron superfine thickness. Same silky sheen. Same luxurious hand feel. But now with the convenience of tossing it in the washing machine.

We'll always indicate on each product page whether a sweater is made with machine-washable CASHWOOL® or our classic Biella Yarn, so you'll know exactly how to care for your piece.

What Makes Merino So Special?

Merino wool brings some serious benefits to the table:

Renewable & Biodegradable: It's a natural fiber that's kind to the planet, breaking down naturally at the end of its life.

Temperature Regulating: Keeps you warm when it's cold, cool when it's warm. Year-round versatility at its finest.

Moisture Wicking & Breathable: Pulls moisture away from your skin so you stay comfortable all day.

Anti-Odor: Naturally resists odor buildup, so your sweater stays fresh wear after wear.

Flame Retardant & UV Protection: Built-in safety features, courtesy of nature.

Soft & Non-Irritating: That "teddy bear" softness everyone talks about? It's real. Perfect for sensitive skin.

Long-Lasting Color: Holds dye beautifully for rich, saturated colors that don't fade.

The Noyac Knits Difference

We use superfine merino because it's simply the best. Unmatched softness, exceptional durability, and a refined feel that elevates every piece. It's the top choice for luxury knitwear—and the only choice for ours. Every sweater is proudly knit in Brooklyn, USA.

Explore Our Merino Wool Collection

All of our merino cardigans are made in Brooklyn from 19.5-micron superfine Italian yarn. A few of our most-loved styles:

Shop the full Merino Wool Collection →

How to Care for Your Merino Knitwear

A little care goes a long way in keeping your Noyac Knits looking beautiful for years. Here's what you need to know:

When to Wash

Only wash when visibly dirty or if there's odor. Thanks to merino's natural anti-odor superpowers, most of the time your sweater just needs to be aired out overnight. Lay it flat in a well-ventilated spot and let it refresh itself.

How to Wash (Biella Yarn Pieces)

Dry clean or hand wash: Turn your sweater inside out before washing.

Use lukewarm water: Hot water is the enemy—it can cause shrinkage.

Use a wool-specific detergent: If you do not want to dry clean, we recommend Miele WoolCare or something similar that's gentle and pH-neutral.

Turn inside out when washing: Reduces friction and minimizes pilling over time.

Never wring or twist: Instead, lay your wet sweater on a clean, light-colored towel. Roll it up like a sleeping bag and press gently to absorb the water. Unroll and lay flat on a fresh towel to dry.

Keep it away from heat and sunlight: No radiators, no direct sun. Just air-dry in a cool spot.

How to Wash (CASHWOOL® Pieces)

Machine-washable! Follow the care instructions on your product page and garment label. CASHWOOL® is designed to handle machine washing while maintaining its shape and softness. Use the delicate or wool cycle with a wool-specific detergent such as Miele WoolCare.

Turn inside out when washing and ideally place in a mesh bag: This reduces friction and minimizes pilling over time.

Never wring or twist: Instead, lay your wet sweater on a clean, light-colored towel to dry.

Dealing with Pilling

A little pilling in high-friction areas (like under the arms or where a bag rubs) is totally normal for natural fibers—it doesn't mean your sweater is low quality. Pills are just small fuzz balls that form from friction.

Use a sweater stone or comb: Gently remove pills to restore that smooth finish. It won't hurt the sweater at all.

Freshen up with a lint roller: Quick and easy way to keep things looking crisp between wears.

Minimize friction: Watch out for rough bags, belts, and surfaces.

Wash less often: Less washing = less pilling. Let merino's natural properties do the work.

Storing Your Sweaters

Always fold, never hang: Hanging stretches out the shoulders. Fold your sweaters and store them on a shelf or in a drawer.

Use breathable storage: Cotton bags or sealed containers work great to keep dust and pests out while letting the fibers breathe.

Keep it cool and dry: Avoid damp or humid spots.

With a little thoughtful care, your Noyac Knits will stay as soft, vibrant, and luxurious as the day you first put them on.

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