Acrylic

Explanation

Acrylic yarn is a synthetic fiber manufactured chemically from petroleum-based raw materials, unlike natural fibers such as wool and cotton. The advantages of acrylic are low cost, good colorfastness, machine washability, and that it does not cause the allergic reactions wool can trigger for some people. The disadvantages are poorer breathability, less natural elasticity, and a tendency to pill with heavy use compared to natural fibers. Acrylic is often blended with wool in yarn to combine low cost with wool's beneficial properties.