Selecting the Right Yarn for Your Project

With so many yarns to choose from, it can be hard to decide what yarn to use for your next knitting project. In this video, Corrina Ferguson shares her expertise on how to select the right yarn for you.

To begin, consider the physical characteristics of the yarn. Corrina says to consider if the yarn is natural or synthetic, smooth or fuzzy, whether the yarn is plied, and the thickness or weight of the yarn. She then provides a few examples of knitted items and how she determined what yarn was best for each project.

For socks, a smooth, thin yarn is often preferred. Many knitters like to use sock yarn with some nylon in it because of its strength and durability. Items that feature slipped stitch patterns, smooth yarn is also recommended, as it allows you to better see the design on the item. While you may see some lace patterns knit in a fuzzy or variegated yarn, many knitters prefer using smooth, solid or semi-solid yarns for these projects because they allow you to better see the gorgeous lace patterning on the project.

For garments, it’s important to consider when and how the item will be worn. If making a warm-weather tee, you’ll want a yarn that is next-to-skin soft and that isn’t too warm to wear. For cooler climates, thicker wool can be used. Another consideration is fiber sensitivities and allergies. Make sure that the yarn will work for the person that will be wearing the item.

Finally, when selecting a yarn, Corrina discusses the importance of gauge and obtaining the correct gauge for the project. With all these factors taken into consideration, you’re well on your way to selecting the right yarn for your next knitting project.