Yarn 101: All About Yarn Weights
Have you ever gone to start a new knitting or crochet project only to realize you're not sure what weight yarn you need?
Even if you're an experienced artist, it can be difficult to keep all of the different types of yarn straight.
This blog post will give you a crash course in all things yarn weights so that you can choose the right type of yarn for your next project.
Types of Yarn Weight
Yarn varies from light weight yarn to chunky yarn.
You can find aran weight yarn, worsted yarn, and more.
There are a few ways to classify different yarn weights, such as by wraps per inch.
The Craft Yarn Council of America (CYCA) has developed a standardized yarn weight system that classifies yarn by its yarn weight category, and it is used by many knitters and crocheters.
This system of yarn weight categories goes from size 0 (also called lace weight yarn) to size 6 (super bulky weight yarn).
There are seven different types of yarn weights, and each one has its own unique characteristics.
The system is as follows:
- 0 Lace
- 1 Super Fine
- 2 Fine
- 3 Light
- 4 Medium
- 5 Bulky
- 6 Super Bulky
Lace Weight Yarn
As the lightest weight, lace weight yarns are very thin and delicate, making them ideal for projects like doilies, shawls, and other lace-type items.
Because it is so thin, lace weight yarn is often held together with multiple strands in order to achieve the desired gauge.
Fingering Weight Yarn
Fingering weight yarn is slightly thicker than lace weight yarn and is typically used for lightweight sweaters, baby clothes, and socks.
This type of yarn can also be held together with multiple strands to achieve a desired gauge.
Sport Weight Yarn
Sport weight yarns are thicker than fingering weight yarn but thinner than DK weight yarn.
It's often used for baby clothes, hats, and gloves.
DK Weight Yarn
DK weight yarn is thicker than sport weight yarn but thinner than worsted weight yarn.
It's versatile and can be used for a wide variety of projects, including sweaters, afghans, and accessories.
Worsted Weight Yarn
Worsted weight yarns are the most common type of yarn and can be used for just about any type of project.
It's durable and easy to care for, making it a good choice for items that will get a lot of wear, such as blankets and sweaters.
Bulky Weight Yarn
Bulky yarn is much thicker than worsted weight yarn and is typically used for quick-to-finish projects like scarves, hats, and cowls.
This yarn is great for beginners because it's easy to work with and you can see your stitches very clearly.
Super Bulky Weight Yarn
Super bulky weight yarn is the thickest type of yarn and works up very quickly.
It's often used for items like blankets and winter wear.
Yarn Weight Ply
The other way to think about yarn weights is by ply.
Ply is the number of strands of yarn that are twisted together to create the final product.
The greater amount of ply there is, the thicker the yarn will be.
The ply of yarn is usually listed on the label, and you can use it to help determine the thickness of the yarn.
For example, a 2-ply yarn will be thinner than a 4-ply yarn.
Here is a general guide to ply and yarn weights:
- 2-ply: Lace weight yarn
- 3-ply: Fingering weight yarn
- 4-ply: Sport weight yarn
- 5-ply: DK weight yarn
- 6-ply: Worsted weight yarn
- 7-ply: Bulky weight yarn
- 8-ply: Super Bulky weight yarn
If you'd like to see a visual of the different weights, check out this yarn weight chart.
Choosing Your Yarn Weight
Now that you know a little bit more about yarn weights, you can make an informed decision and choose the right weight of yarn for your next project!
Just remember that lace weight yarn is thin and delicate; fingering weight, sport weight, and DK weight are good choices for garments; worsted weight is versatile; bulky weight works up quickly; and super bulky weight is the thickest option available.
With this knowledge in hand, you're ready to tackle any knitting or crochet project!
So, what are you waiting for?
Pick up a skein of yarn and get started!
Want to learn more about yarn weights? Check out Yay for Yarn's video!
Looking for some yarn for your next project?
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