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.

2 Responses to “Selecting the Right Yarn for Your Project”

1. Robin August 27th, 2021

   What if you get the correct gauge for stitch number but the amount of rows are not correct, or visa versa?

   Reply

   • Customer Service August 30th, 2021

     Hello Robin,

     Thank you for contacting us.

     You can try changing the needle size – you’d be surprised that sometimes you’ll still get the same number for one of the measurements! You can also try switching needle type (bamboo, metal, etc.) – that can make a different depending on the yarn. If you just can’t get both to match no matter what, match the one that is most critical for that pattern. Usually, that’s the stitch gauge. However, depending on the construction of whatever you’re making, row gauge might be more important.

     Sincerely,

     Sarah
     The Knitting Circle Video Membership

     Reply