NORO Akeboshi Yarn
Noro Akeboshi is a bulky-weight yarn from Japan’s Noro, made from 85% wool and 15% silk. Each 150 g ball holds about 295 yards (270 m) and knits at 12–15 stitches per 4" on US 9–11 needles. Deep base tones with flecks and slow-shifting strands of color make it a standout choice for sweaters, cardigans, jackets, hats, and scarves.
Akeboshi means “morning star” in Japanese, and the yarn captures the moment just before sunrise: shadowed, grounded colors lit by unexpected sparks of brighter shades. As you knit, color moves through the fabric in Noro’s signature long transitions, so every project has depth and movement with no two pieces exactly alike.
The blend balances two fibers. Wool brings warmth, bounce, and body, while silk adds a soft sheen and drape. The result is a cozy, substantial fabric that still moves beautifully and shows off texture and simple stitch patterns.
Like all Noro yarns, Akeboshi follows founder Eisaku Noro’s philosophy of celebrating the natural character of fiber, with animal fibers sourced from certified organic farms. At bulky gauge, it also knits up quickly, making it a satisfying choice for a statement sweater or a last-minute gift.
What’s to love about Noro Akeboshi
- Color that tells a story. Dark, grounded tones broken by flecks of brighter color give every project the glow of a dawn sky.
- Wool warmth with silk shine. The 85/15 blend is warm and springy, with a soft luster and drape you don’t get from wool alone.
- Fast, satisfying knitting. Bulky weight on US 9–11 needles means sweaters and accessories come together quickly.
- Generous yardage. About 295 yards per ball means fewer ends to weave in and longer, uninterrupted color runs.
- One of a kind, every time. Noro’s long color transitions make each finished piece unique.
- Thoughtfully sourced. Noro uses animal fibers from certified organic farms and celebrates the natural character of the fleece.
Features
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Material:
- 85% Wool
- 15% Silk
- Weaving Weight: Other
- Yarn Weight: Bulky
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Knitting Needle:
- US: 9 - 11
- Metric: 5.5 - 8.0mm
- Knitting Gauge: 12 - 15 sts = 4" (10cm)
- Physical Weight: 150g (~5.3 oz.) ball
- Approximate Yardage: 295 yds. (~270m)
- Sett: 8 - 10 dpi
- Country of Origin: Japan
Frequently asked questions
What weight is Noro Akeboshi?
Akeboshi is a bulky (chunky) weight yarn, knitting at 12–15 stitches per 4" on US 9–11 needles.
What is Noro Akeboshi made of?
85% wool and 15% silk. The wool provides warmth and bounce, and the silk adds sheen and drape.
What does Akeboshi mean?
Akeboshi means “morning star” in Japanese. The colorways are inspired by the dawn sky, with deep tones and flashes of brighter color.
How many balls of Akeboshi do I need for a sweater?
An adult bulky-weight sweater typically takes 800–1,300 yards, or about 3–5 balls of Akeboshi depending on size and design. A hat usually takes one ball. Always check your pattern’s yardage.
How do I care for Noro Akeboshi?
Hand wash in cool water with a gentle wool wash, press out excess water without wringing, and dry flat.
Will my project match the photo exactly?
Noro’s color sequences are long and vary from ball to ball, so each project is unique. For more even color in a garment, many knitters alternate two balls every few rows.
Where is Noro yarn made?
Noro is a Japanese yarn company, and Akeboshi is spun in Japan.
