Mulberry Silk vs. Tussah Silk: What’s the Difference?

Silk is one of the most luxurious fibers in the world, but not all silk is the same. If you’ve ever shopped for spinning fiber, yarn, or fabric, you’ve probably seen Mulberry silk and Tussah silk listed separately, and wondered what actually sets them apart.

While both are beautiful, they behave very differently in spinning, dyeing, and finished projects. Let’s break down the key differences so you can choose the right silk for your next project.

What Is Mulberry Silk?

Mulberry silk is the most common and refined type of silk in the world. It comes from silkworms that are raised in captivity and fed exclusively on mulberry leaves, which results in an extremely consistent and fine fiber.

Key Characteristics of Mulberry Silk

• Very smooth and uniform

• Bright natural white color

• Exceptionally soft and lustrous

• Long, continuous fibers

• Takes dye vividly and evenly

Because of its consistency and softness, Mulberry silk is often used in:

• Luxury garments

• Lace yarns

• Silk tops for spinning

• Blends meant to feel ultra-smooth next to the skin

For spinners, Mulberry silk drafts easily and creates a sleek, shiny yarn with incredible drape.

What Is Tussah Silk?

Tussah silk (also called wild silk) comes from silkworms that live in the wild rather than in controlled environments. These silkworms feed on a variety of leaves, not just mulberry, which gives Tussah silk its unique personality.

Key Characteristics of Tussah Silk

• Coarser texture than Mulberry silk

• Shorter staple length

• Naturally golden, tan, or honey-colored

• More matte sheen

• Strong and durable

Tussah silk is prized for its organic, earthy look and feel. It’s commonly used in:

• Rustic or textured yarns

• Wool and silk blends

• Weaving fibers

• Projects where strength and character matter more than shine

For spinners, Tussah silk offers more resistance when drafting and creates a yarn with subtle texture and less slipperiness.

Feature	Mulberry Silk	Tussah Silk
Source	Domesticated silkworms	Wild silkworms
Color	Bright white	Natural golden/tan
Texture	Very smooth	Slightly coarse
Sheen	High shine	Soft, matte glow
Staple Length	Long	Shorter
Dyeing	Takes dye evenly and brightly	More muted, earthy tones
Best For	Drape, shine, luxury	Texture, strength, rustic feel

 

Which Silk Is Better for Spinning?

Neither is “better”, it depends on your goal.

Choose Mulberry silk if you want:

• A smooth, shiny yarn

• Elegant drape

• High contrast dye colors

• A luxurious hand

Choose Tussah silk if you want:

• More texture and grip

• An earthy or natural aesthetic

• Added strength in wool blends

• A silk that feels less slippery

Many spinners love Tussah silk blended with wool because it’s easier to control than Mulberry silk, especially for beginners.

How They Feel in Finished Projects

• Mulberry silk adds softness, shine, and fluid movement. Finished projects feel elegant and lightweight.

• Tussah silk adds structure, durability, and a subtle glow. Finished projects feel more grounded and organic.

If you’re knitting or weaving something meant to be worn next to the skin, Mulberry silk often wins. If you’re making outer layers, accessories, or textured fabrics, Tussah silk shines in its own way.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between Mulberry silk and Tussah silk helps you choose the right fiber for your project, and appreciate what makes each one special. Whether you’re spinning, knitting, weaving, or blending fibers, both silks offer something beautiful and unique.

The best way to learn the difference? Try both. Once you do, you’ll never look at silk the same way again.