Hello friends! If you love knitting or crocheting, you’ve probably heard of Paintbox Simply Aran and Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton. These two are pretty popular in the yarn world, and a lot of us crafters wonder which one is better for our projects. That’s why I’m here to give you a friendly rundown of these yarns so you can pick the one that’s perfect for your next creation. Let’s go step by step and see how these two yarns compare!
The Basics: Paintbox Simply Aran vs. Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
Let’s start with the basics! Paintbox Simply Aran is a 100% acrylic yarn. It’s really soft and comes in a bunch of bright, happy colors. Seriously, the range of colors is huge! On the other hand, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton is, well, 100% cotton, as the name says! It also has a great selection of colors, but the look is a little different. This yarn is shiny, smooth, and has a lot of strength, making it amazing for projects that need to hold their shape.
So, right from the start, you can already tell that they’re a bit different in terms of material. Aran is more cuddly, while 24/7 Cotton has this sturdy and slightly glossy finish. You might pick Paintbox Simply Aran if you want something soft for a baby blanket or scarf, while Lion Brand 24/7 is perfect for making something like a market bag or even a coaster.
Paintbox Simply Aran vs Lion Brand 24/7: Which Yarn Feels Better?
Alright, so how do these yarns feel in your hands? This is super important, right? After all, when you’re knitting or crocheting, you want something that’s comfortable to work with.
Paintbox Simply Aran is known for being really, really soft. It’s got that “squishy” feel that’s just super comforting. It’s perfect for anything that’s meant to be worn close to the skin—like hats, scarves, or sweaters. Imagine wrapping up in a soft, cozy blanket, and that’s kind of how this yarn feels.
On the other hand, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton has a different kind of texture. It’s not as soft as acrylic, but that doesn’t mean it’s not great! It’s actually really smooth and has a nice weight to it. The yarn is mercerized, which means it has a bit of a shiny finish and feels sturdy. So, if you want something with a bit of sheen—like for making dishcloths or summer tops—Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton is awesome.
Durability: Which Yarn Stands Up Over Time?
Now, let’s talk about how these yarns last over time. This is super important if you’re making something that you want to keep for a long time, like a blanket that you’ll use again and again.
Acrylic yarns like Paintbox Simply Aran tend to be pretty tough when it comes to everyday wear. You can toss them in the washing machine, and they usually hold up really well. This yarn doesn’t shrink, and it keeps its color bright for a long time. So if you’re planning on making something for a kid, or something that’s going to get a lot of use, Paintbox Simply Aran could be a great choice.
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton is also pretty strong, but since it’s cotton, there are a few differences. Cotton tends to be heavier, and it’s also more absorbent, which can be really handy if you’re making washcloths or towels. But here’s the thing—since it’s 100% cotton, it can shrink a little bit in the wash, especially if you use hot water. Just remember to wash it in cold water, and you’ll be good to go!
Project Ideas: Which Yarn for Which Projects?
Okay, now for the fun part—what kinds of projects work best with these yarns?
Paintbox Simply Aran
If you’re looking to make soft and cozy things, like blankets, scarves, or even stuffed animals, Paintbox Simply Aran is a dream! The softness is just so nice for anything you want to snuggle up with. Plus, the colors are so vibrant, which makes it perfect for kids’ items or for when you just want to add a pop of happiness to your day.
I’ve seen some beautiful granny square blankets made with Paintbox Simply Aran, and they look like a rainbow explosion in the best way! Also, it’s a great yarn for beginners because it’s not too expensive, and it’s easy to work with.
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, on the other hand, is ideal for things that need to be a bit stronger and more durable. Think summer tops, bags, coasters, or even placemats. The glossy sheen makes everything look a bit more “fancy,” which is awesome if you want a handmade piece that also looks really polished.
I once made a market bag with Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, and let me tell you, that thing can carry so many apples! It’s great for anything that you want to have a bit of structure because the cotton doesn’t stretch as much as acrylic.
Price and Availability: What’s the Deal?
So, what about the price? Well, these yarns are fairly close in cost, but it kind of depends on where you buy them.
Paintbox Simply Aran is available mostly online, especially on websites like LoveCrafts. It’s usually pretty affordable, which makes it a favorite for bigger projects like blankets. Plus, if you’re looking for lots of different colors, you’re in luck—there are tons of shades to choose from.
Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton might be a bit pricier than Paintbox, especially since it’s cotton, and cotton yarns are often a bit more expensive than acrylic ones. But you can find it in craft stores and online too, so it’s usually not too hard to get your hands on some. Plus, Lion Brand is a pretty big name, so their yarns are stocked in a lot of places.
Paintbox Simply Aran vs Lion Brand 24/7: The Final Verdict
Now, this is the big question: which one is better, Paintbox Simply Aran or Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton? Honestly, it depends on what you want to make and what you like in a yarn.
If you’re all about softness, vibrant colors, and ease of use, Paintbox Simply Aran is your best friend. It’s affordable, colorful, and so easy to work with. Plus, it’s a good option for beginners because it’s very forgiving and comfortable to use.
But, if you want something with a bit more strength, a nice shine, and something that will work for home decor or sturdy wearables, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton is perfect. It’s got that polished look, and it’s really strong, which is great for bags, coasters, or even a cute summer crop top.
My Personal Experience and Tips!
To be totally honest with you guys, I love both! They each have their own place in my yarn stash, and I use them for totally different things.
For example, if I want to make a cozy scarf for my best friend, I reach for Paintbox Simply Aran because I know it’ll be super soft and colorful. But if I’m making something like a pot holder or a market bag, I use Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton because it’s stronger and holds its shape so well.
If you’re new to crocheting or knitting, I think starting with Paintbox Simply Aran might be a good idea. It’s really easy to work with, and since it’s so affordable, you don’t have to worry too much if you make a mistake. Plus, the bright colors make everything more fun!
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something that’s a bit more advanced or want to try making some home decor items, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton is great. The end result always looks so polished, and it’s really satisfying to make something that’s both beautiful and functional.
Which Yarn Will You Choose?
So there you have it, friends! A friendly little showdown between Paintbox Simply Aran and Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton. Both yarns are amazing in their own ways, and which one you pick really depends on what kind of project you have in mind.
If you want coziness, go for Paintbox Simply Aran. If you want durability and shine, Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton is the way to go. Either way, you’re going to end up with a beautiful project that’s made with love, and that’s what really matters, right?
I hope this helped you decide which yarn to pick for your next project! If you’ve used either of these yarns, or if you have any cool project ideas, feel free to share. I’d love to hear about what you’re making. Let’s keep the yarn magic going, friends!
Happy knitting and crocheting!
