How to Know What Weight of Yarn to Buy

Yarn weights can be confusing for beginning knitters and crocheters. But understanding what the different words used to describe the thicknesses of yarn and knowing how to use each thickness to its advantage is one of the most important steps to true confidence with yarn craft.

Yarn weight, or its thickness, can be identified in different way. Words are often used, such as: worsted, bulky, and fingering. But these can be subjective. A measurement of how many times a yarn can be wrapped in the space of a single inch is a more objective way of identifying yarn weight. The more wraps per inch (WPI), the thinner the yarn and (usually) the smaller the hook or needle needed to work with it.

The yarn industry has also standardized a number of categories for yarn weight based on WPI that feature a number in a skein of yarn symbol. Each number corresponds to a grouping of yarn weights, with one being the thinnest and six being the thickest. This system, however, does not include lace weight yarns. One indicates fingering weights and sock yarns and six indicates super bulky yarns.

Lace weight yarn is quite thin, producing a light and airy fabric. Lace weight yarn is generally worked with a hook or needles that are larger than expected of such a fine yarn. The resultant loose stitches contribute to the lacey look of the finished item. These yarns are best used for scarves, shawls, wraps and other lacey fashion accessories. They can also be used to great effect in curtains, doilies, table cloths, and other home items.

Fingering, sock and baby weight yarns are excellent for, of course, baby clothing and socks. They produce a very fine gauged fabric that is light weight and drapes well. Because crochet stitches produce a slightly thicker fabric than knitting stitches, these thinner yarns can be used with success for light weight sweaters and other tops.

Sport, DK or light worsted weight yarns are great for indoor sweaters or twin sets. They work well in light throws and pillows and other home décor items. They're a great choice for gloves, hats, and slippers or socks as well.

Worsted weight yarn is a very common weight for adult sweaters, full sized afghans, bags, and various items for decorating. Not to mention warm winter hats, mittens, socks for layering in boots, and scarves. Lots of patterns use worsted weight yarn and lots of yarns come in this weight.

Chunky, bulky and super bulky yarns will produce a fabric that is very thick. This makes them the perfect choice for coats and outerwear that is intended to keep the wearer very warm while spending extended time in winter temperatures.

This quick explanation of yarn weights is intended to introduce the new knitter or crocheter to the terminology involved in yarn weight. As always, a gauge swatch is essential in determining the correct yarn to use for a given project. And remember, if you don't like the fabric produced in your gauge swatch, you won't like the finished project either!

Yarn weight chart from the Craft Yarn Council of America:
http://www.yarnstandards.com/weight.html