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Yarn is available in several different weights. It is important to know what is available. The Craft Yarn Council of America (CYCA) collaborated with designers and manufactorers to bring consistency to the markets of yarn, needles and patterns. Check them out at https://www.craftyarncouncil.com for useful information.
Understanding yarn weights will allow you to pick the proper yarn for your projects. You will also be able to substitute the recommended yarn for another brand of the same weight. These substitutuions can help you use yarn already in your stash or choose an economical alternative.
Lace– 0
- Lace weight yarn is the official category for all yarns that are thinner than fingering. It is labeled as 0 on the yarn skein. Lace yarn is very thin and delicate. It can be worked single or double stranded to make it a thicker weight.
- Uses include large shawls, scarves
- Commonly used names- cobweb, lace, crochet thread
Fingering– 1
- Fingering weight yarn is double the weight of lace yarn. It is labeled as 1 on the yarn skein.
- Uses include socks, shawls, scarves
- Commonly used names- superfine, sock, fingering, baby
Sport– 2
- Sport weight yarn is slightly heavier than fingering weight yarns. It is labeled as 2 on the yarn skein.
- Uses include colorwork, textured stitches, cabling, socks, sweaters, shawls, scarves
- Commonly used names- fine, baby
DK– 3
- DK weight yarn is slightly larger than sport yarn. They are thought to be interchangeable, but DK is a heavier yarn. It is labeled as 3 on the yarn skein.
- Uses include socks, sweaters, scarves, shawls
- Commonly used names- light worsted
Worsted- 4
- Worsted weight yarn is double the thickness of fingering weight. It is the most widely available and used yarn. Very suitable for beginners. It is labeled as 4 on the yarn skein.
- Uses include almost anything
- Commonly used names- afghan, aran
Bulky- 5
- Bulky weight yarn is twice as thick as worsted weight. It works up quickly on large needles. It is labeled as 5 on the yarn label.
- Uses include sweaters, throws, felted items
- Commonly used names- chunky, craft, rug
Super Bulky- 6
- Super bulky weight yarn is very thick. It works up very fast. It is labeled as 6 on the yarn label.
- Uses include rugs, home decor items
- Commonly used names- bulky, roving
Jumbo- 7
- Jumbo weight yarn is a new category just created by the The Craft Yarn Council. It is ideal for arm knitting or big stitch projects
- Uses include big stitch cowls, scarves, hats, sweaters, blankets
- Commonly used names- jumbo, roving
Check out my other articles on How to Read a Yarn Label or Making a Slip Stitch. Follow me on Instagram @the.crafty.world.