Choosing the correct yarn weight for your knitting project can be hard. Whether you’re an experienced knitter or just picking up your needles, understanding thickness of yarn is a fundamental part of knitting. In this blogpost we will explain the yarn weight spectrum and guide you through the process of choosing the perfect yarn for your projects.
What is yarn weight?
Yarn weight isn’t just about thickness; it’s a very important factor that determines the look, feel, and drape of your finished project. From delicate lacework to cozy blankets, each yarn weight has its unique charm.
Be sure to always make a gauge swatch before knitting with the recommended needle size stated in your pattern. This will help you determine not only if the yarn is right but also help you choose the correct needle size for the specific project.
1. Lace Yarn (0)
Lace weight yarns are the lightest threads of the knitting world. With a thickness similar to a whisper, these yarns create delicate and intricate fabrics. They are the ideal for shawls and very lightweight accessories. If you knit them on their own, they demand a lot of patience – but what we like to do, is hold lace weight yarns together with a thicker strand of yarn.
Most of the typical Silk/Mohair yarns can be classified as lace weight yarns. They make your projects super fluffy and cozy & can also be used for thickening your main yarn to match your project.
If you are sensitive to mohair, there are also Silk/Alpaca or only Alpaca alternatives. If you want to know more about Fibre Types, we also have a blogpost explaining which fibre types are suitable for which project.
Recommended Knitting Needle Size: 2 – 3 mm [US0 – US1]
Gauge: around 32-40 Stitches will make up 10 cm
2. Fingering Yarn – Super Fine and Sock Yarn (1)
Fingering weight is a bit heavier than lace and creates a more substantial fabric. It is still very fine gauged. Perfect for lightweight garments, socks, and accessories, this yarn is perfectly suitable for a variety of projects.. Fingering yarn comes in an array of fibers. You can find fibre types like pure merino wool or wool mixed with some polyamide, which makes it suitable for knitting socks.
Recommended Knitting Needle Size: 2.25 mm – 3.5 mm [US1-US4]
Gauge: around 27 – 32 Stitches will make up 10 cm
3. Sport Weight Yarn : Fine Weight (2)
Suitable for both garments and accessories, sport weight strikes the perfect balance for those wanting a bit more substance without added bulk. It’s the active all-rounder in the lineup. It is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to create a fine garment that does not call for tiny needles and therefore takes quite a while to knit up. You can get sport weight yarn in a variety of different fibre types!
Recommended Knitting Needle Size: 3.25 mm – 4 mm [US3-US6]
Gauge: around 24 – 27 Stitches will make up 10 cm
4. DK (Double Knit) Weight Yarn : Light Weight (3)
DK weight yarn, the versatile middle ground between sport and worsted. Offering a balance of warmth and drape, DK is ideal for a variety of projects. It’s the go-to choice for those seeking versatility in their knitting endeavors. DK yarn is one of our favorites. It is relatively quick to knit up and still gives you a pretty looking gauge. We especially like DK yarns to knit up sweaters.
Recommended Knitting Needle Size: 3.75 mm – 4.5 mm [US5-US7]
Gauge: around 21 – 24 Stitches will make up 10 cm
5. Worsted & Aran Weight Yarn : Medium Weight (4)
Worsted weight yarn is the workhorse of the knitting world. With a medium thickness, it’s perfect for so many kind of projects. From cozy sweaters to blankets, worsted weight yarn delivers both warmth and speed in your knitting journey.
Recommended Knitting Needle Size: 4.5 mm – 5.5 mm [US7-US9]
Gauge: around 16 – 20 Stitches will make up 10 cm
6. Bulky Weight Yarn (5)
Bulky weight yarns are for anyone who is looking for a speedy project. Ideal for those who crave instant gratification, bulky yarns knit up quickly, creating plush, cozy items. From chunky scarves to oversized blankets, bulky weight yarn can be used for a variety of projects. It is often also called “Chunky”.
Recommended Knitting Needle Size: 6 mm – 8 mm [US9-US11]
Gauge: around 12 – 16 Stitches will make up 10 cm
7. Super Bulky Weight Yarn (6)
Super bulky weight yarns are the giants of knitting. With their thickness they create warm, snuggly projects in record time. Perfect for chunky scarves and winter accessories, super bulky yarns definitely make a statement.
Recommended Knitting Needle Size: 8 mm – 12 mm [US 11-US17]
Gauge: around 7 – 11 Stitches will make up 10 cm
Armed with this knowledge , you’re now equipped to start your knitting adventure! Each yarn brings its unique charm, allowing you to express your creativity in countless ways. Stay tuned for more knitting insights and tips here on our blog! Happy knitting! <3
