All AppleOak yarns are made from natural fibres and coloured using traditional natural dyes wherever indicated. We work with wool, alpaca, yak, silk, hemp, ramie, bamboo and nettle — fibres chosen for integrity, longevity and feel.
Our own-brand yarns are dyed in-house using natural colour. We do not use heavy metals or synthetic colour-enhancing chemicals. Where possible, our dyes are organically grown and processed in our studio in Co. Clare.
Natural fibre. Honest colour.
Our Himalayan nettle yarn is hand-harvested from wild nettle plants growing in Nepal and spun by hand using traditional methods. Untreated and naturally processed using only water and wood ash, it retains the integrity and character of the original fibre.
The yarn carries the quiet irregularity and variation inherent to hand-spun plant fibres. Its natural colours range from soft grey and beige to warm, earthy tones, reflecting the fibre’s origin.
Historically known as “poor man’s linen,” nettle fibre shares many of linen’s qualities — strength, breathability, and durability — whilst offering its own distinct texture and presence.
This yarn is entirely plant-based, biodegradable and produced through ethical small-scale production supporting rural families and traditional fibre knowledge.
Fibre: 100% Himalayan nettle fibre
Weight options: Thin and medium weight
Length: approx. 265 m per 100 g
Form: skein or ball depending on weight
Processing: Hand-harvested and hand-spun
Treatment: Naturally processed using water and wood ash
Origin: Himalayan region, Nepal 🇳🇵
Colour: Naturally undyed (grey, beige, and earthy tones)
Thin weight
• Smooth and relatively even
• Suitable for knitting, weaving, crochet
• Ideal for garments and other textile work
Medium weight
• More textured and uneven
• Suitable for weaving and structural textile work
• Less suited to fine knitting or garments
• Weaving
• Knitting (thin weight)
• Textile art
• Structural textiles
• Sustainable fibre projects
• Historical and heritage textile work
Nettle fibre shares qualities with linen — strength, breathability, and longevity — whilst maintaining its own distinctive texture.
Each skein reflects the hand-spun process and the natural variation of wild plant fibre.
Hand wash gently in cool water
Reshape whilst damp
Dry flat
With use and washing, the fibre softens naturally.
This yarn is produced through ethical, small-scale production in Nepal, supporting local women and families and preserving traditional fibre skills.
Wild harvesting ensures minimal environmental impact.
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Happy making! 🌿