Understanding Yarn Requirements
The amount of yarn needed depends on your project size, yarn weight, stitch pattern, and whether you're knitting or crocheting. Crochet typically uses 25-30% more yarn than knitting for the same project.
Yarn Weight Categories
| Weight | Name | Gauge (4") |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Lace | 33-40 sts |
| 1 | Fingering/Sock | 27-32 sts |
| 2 | Sport | 23-26 sts |
| 3 | DK/Light Worsted | 21-24 sts |
| 4 | Worsted/Aran | 16-20 sts |
| 5 | Chunky/Bulky | 12-15 sts |
| 6 | Super Bulky | 7-11 sts |
| 7 | Jumbo | 6 or fewer |
Typical Yardage by Project
| Project | Worsted Yarn |
|---|---|
| Adult Sweater | 1,200-1,800 yds |
| Baby Sweater | 400-600 yds |
| Afghan/Blanket | 1,800-3,000 yds |
| Scarf | 200-400 yds |
| Hat | 150-250 yds |
| Socks (pair) | 350-450 yds |
| Shawl | 500-1,000 yds |
Yarn Buying Tips
- Buy extra: Add 10-15% for swatching and mistakes
- Same dye lot: Buy all yarn from the same dye lot
- Check gauge: Always make a swatch to check gauge
- Substitutions: When substituting, match gauge, not weight name
- Cables use more: Add 15-20% extra for cable patterns
- Crochet uses more: Crochet uses ~30% more yarn than knitting
- Keep labels: Save yarn labels for fiber content and care instructions
Stitch Pattern Adjustments
- Stockinette/Single Crochet: Baseline amount
- Garter/Half Double: +10% more yarn
- Cables/Textured: +15-20% more yarn
- Lace/Openwork: -15-20% less yarn