what is 1 ply wool?

Question

i found a pattern for a miniature (dollhouse size) blanket for knitting and it says to use "1 ply wool"
what kind of yarn is that?

Answer 1

Literally it is wool that is spun but not twisted (twined) together. This is thinner than wool that is twined.
When wool is twined it will become 2 ply, 3 ply or any other amount.

Wool which is plied is more stable and less likely to break, twist and turn.

Unless you really need wool, better use a different kind of yarn that is thinner and can be used 2 ply for the thickness you need.

Answer 2

I'm also a spinner. Precisely, "1 ply" means a single strand, just as it has been spun (straight from the spindle). I regularly see the term mis-used to to describe one strand from a group of strands. Whichever. Use what will give you the desired scale.

You'll need wool if the design depends of steam-blocking for final shape. If not, the spools of fuzzy synthetic sold for punch-needle embroidery are more readily available than wool in some regions and there would never be a worry about moth.

Answer 3

I suspect it's laceweight, which is usually available from sites dealing in miniature crafts. Smith & Jamieson in Lerwick in the Shetlands has laceweight yarns and patterns for wedding ring shawls. It might be worth looking on their site. You might get away with a fine crochet yarn, which is easily available.