If you’re new to knitting or crocheting, you might feel a little lost when you hear terms like lace weight, fingering weight, or worsted weight. What do these mean? And how do you know which one to pick for your project? Don’t worry—I’m here to help!
Yarn comes in different thicknesses, called weights. The weight of the yarn affects how big or small your stitches will be. Thinner yarns make light, delicate projects, while thicker yarns create warm, cozy ones. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the most common yarn weights:
Lace Weight
Super thin and delicate
Used for: Lacy shawls and lightweight accessories
Best for: Experienced knitters and crocheters, but adventurous beginners can try it too!
Sock/Fingering Weight
Thin but stronger than lace weight
Used for: Socks, lightweight sweaters, and delicate shawls
Best for: Beginners who want to try small needles and hooks
Sport Weight
A little thicker than fingering weight
Used for: Lightweight garments, baby clothes, and shawls
Best for: Knitters and crocheters who want something between thin and medium yarn
DK (Double Knit) Weight
Medium-thin yarn, a bit lighter than worsted
Used for: Sweaters, hats, scarves, and baby items
Best for: All skill levels—great for beginners!
Worsted Weight
Medium thickness and very popular
Used for: Hats, scarves, sweaters, blankets, and more!
Best for: Beginners! It’s easy to work with and widely available.
Bulky Weight
Thick and cozy
Used for: Warm blankets, chunky hats, scarves, and sweaters
Best for: Quick projects and beginners who like big, squishy yarns!
How to Choose the Right Yarn Weight
Think about the project – Do you want something light and airy or warm and thick?
Check the pattern – Most knitting and crochet patterns tell you which yarn weight to use.
Consider your skill level – Worsted and DK weight are great for beginners, while lace weight and fingering weight take more patience.
No matter which yarn weight you choose, the most important thing is to have fun! Working with hand-dyed yarn makes every project special because the colors are unique and beautiful. If you’re ever unsure about what yarn to pick, just ask—I’m happy to help!