How to Choose Knitting Yarn

Experienced knitters know that the yarn makes the project. But how do you select the correct yarn for the project you want to complete? There are many factors that go into selecting a yarn and without considering all of them, you may find yourself completing a sweater or scarf that you absolutely hate.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Choosing the Correct Yarn for Your Pattern

1
Choose your yarn based on gauge. Every yarn has a gauge (also known as a “tension”). This number refers to the number of stitches per inch. Every pattern will tell you what gauge of yarn to use for the project; make sure you utilize the correct gauge or your final product will come out looking completely different from your pattern.^{[1]XResearch source}
- The gauge does not reflect the size of the completed garment.
- To measure your yarn’s gauge yourself, count the number of stitches over 6 inches (15cm), then divide that number by 6. Your answer will determine the gauge of your yarn.
- Just because two different yarns share the same gauge does not mean they will function the same within the confines of a pattern. Texture, drape, fiber and other factors also affect on the final outcome of your project.
2
Choose your yarn based on weight. Certain yarn weights perform better with certain projects. Lace or cobweb is best to make doilies. Fingering works best to knit socks. Sport is ideal for making baby clothes or blankets. Worsted is used to make blankets and sweaters, and bulky is perfect for scarves and rugs.
- When working with different yarn weights, make sure you also use the correct needle size and hook size for that yarn.
- When looking at weights, double check that you are also using the recommended brand for your pattern of choice.
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3
Choose your yarn based on drape. When selecting your pattern, decide how you want your finished piece to hang. Depending on whether you prefer flowing or more structured, select your yarn accordingly.^{[2]XResearch source}
- For a very dense drape, select a very thin yarn.
- For a more relaxed drape, select a thicker yarn and use large needles to create large stitches.
4
Choose the yarn recommended by your pattern. Most patterns recommend working with a specific yarn and it's important to take this seriously.^{[3]XExpert SourceJen Webber
Knitting SpecialistExpert Interview. 4 August 2020.} Using the wrong yarn can completely alter your pattern, and since different yarns have different elasticity, you may find yourself running out of yarn altogether.^{[4]XResearch source}
- To avoid running out of yarn, buy extra. Most yarn stores have a flexible return policy, and if not, you can always use your extra yarn in another project.
- If you are going to substitute yarn, make sure you replace your yarn with a yarn of a similar elasticity. Inelastic yarns include silk, linen, hemp, alpaca, tencel, bamboo, cotton and rayon.
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Choosing a Yarn Based on Color and Texture

1
Choose your yarn based on plies. Yarn is made up of strands, which are twisted together to form plies. Working with plied yarn is especially helpful when you’re working on cable and stitch patterns. If you’re looking to make your stitches stand out, use a smooth, plied yarn in a solid color.^{[5]XResearch source}
- The thickness of yarn is determined not by how many plies you have, but how thick the individual plies are. For example, a 4-ply yarn can be thinner than a 1-ply yarn, provided the plies in the 1-ply yarn are finer than in the 4-ply.
- If you’re working with a wide yarn, choose a simple pattern.
2
Choose based on color. Working with colored yarn can be counterintuitive: the more colorful your yarn, the simpler your stitching should be. Bright or novelty colors can distract or hide complicated work, so consider this when you’re picking a colored yarn to work with your pattern.^{[6]XResearch source}
- Choose a plain, solid yarn to make the texture and shape of your project pop.
- If you’re working with Fair Isle patterns, choose smooth plied yarns in contrasting colors so your patterns will show up.
- Consider using hand painted yarn for a subtle watercolor technique.
- If you’re a beginner, steer clear of novelty yarns. The yarn is harder to see and it makes fixing mistakes or ripping out stitches much more difficult.
3
Choose based on fiber content. Certain yarns lack elasticity, which might not work with the pattern you’re hoping to use. Either pick a pattern that hangs straight, or ask a specialty store employee for elastic thread to help edge your pattern.^{[7]XResearch source}
- Cotton and silk yarns both have very low elasticity.
- Animal fibers are warm and lightweight and ideal for making cold weather accessories.^{[8]XResearch source}
- Plant based fibers are strong, durable and moisture wicking, making them ideal for spring and summer clothing.
- Cashmere is lightweight and durable, but more expensive. It is ideal for making scarves, shawls and sweaters.
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Utilizing Your Resources During Yarn Selection

1
Use samples to choose a yarn. If you’re looking to work on a specific project, check with your local craft or knitting store to see if they have samples made up. These samples will give you an idea of what yarn works well with the pattern and will give you an idea of how the final product will look.^{[9]XResearch source}
- If your store does not have the full project completed, ask for a sample swatch instead.
2
Ask questions. Craft or knitting store employees are extremely experienced in selecting yarns, as long as you know the right questions to ask.^{[10]XExpert SourceJen Webber
Knitting SpecialistExpert Interview. 4 August 2020.} Some questions you should consider asking when selecting a yarn are:^{[11]XResearch source}
- Will it stretch?
- What size needle should I use with this yarn?
- Does this yarn pill?
- Is this yarn easy to work with?
3
Create your own sample swatch. If you already have yarn on hand but are unsure if it’s the best choice for a specific project, test it out. Knit a 4”x4” (10cm x 10cm) swatch and see how it looks. To check draping, make your swatch even larger.
- To really test out your swatch, treat it as you would your actual clothing. Wash it, crumple it and hang it on the wall to see how the yarn reacts.^{[12]XResearch source}
- If the swatch does not perform up to your standards, switch it out and try another option.
4
Look at the price tag. Yarn doesn't have to be expensive, but using higher quality yarn will yield a higher quality project. Don't compare yarns of different materials (silk yarn will always cost more than wool yarn) but compare yarns of the same material. If you're stuck between two wool yarns, choose the more expensive option for a higher quality result.^{[13]XResearch source}
- If you know what type of yarn you're looking for, check online. You may be able to score a better deal than you would in your neighborhood yarn store.
- Trade yarns with friends. The more yarns you try, the better you'll get at identifying quality yarns that work well for you.
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Expert Q&A

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Question
What can I use wool yarn for?
Jen Webber
Knitting Specialist
Jen Webber is a Knitting Specialist and the Manager of The Quarter Stitch, a crafting store based in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. With over 17 years of knitting and crafting experience, Jen helps educate customers and the public on best knitting practices for their DIY projects.
Jen Webber
Knitting Specialist
Expert Answer
You can use wool yarn for any of your projects, but avoid machine-washing it since it could shrink.
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What is the best yarn for a blanket?
Community Answer
Got or a soft yarn. If you want to finish fast, use thicker yarn.
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How can I check what ply a certain wool is?
Community Answer
Look for words such as "worsted," "bulky," "dk," "sport," etc. on the label. This refers to thickness, and your knitting pattern should mention which one to use.
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Tips

All yarns are not created equal. Invest in more expensive yarns for a more quality project.
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Once you're a more experienced knitter, you can try patterned or multicolored yarns. You can even dye speckled yarn yourself if you'd like to customize the color!
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