Yarn and needles explained
Choosing the right yarn doesn’t have to feel complicated—we promise. Once you understand a few key things (weight, gauge, and how yarn is packaged), your needles will fall into place.
Yarn Weights, Needle Sizes and Gauge
Choosing yarn doesn’t have to feel complicated—we promise. Once you understand a few key things (weight, gauge, and how yarn is packaged), everything starts to click into place.
Yarn Weight Download
Gauge
Your Yarns Fit & Feel
Gauge is how many stitches and rows you knit over a certain measurement—usually 4 inches. Gauge helps your project fit and to see the drape of the yarn. Too many stitches in your gauge, your project may come out smaller. Too few stitches and it may turn out larger. The best way to check your gauge is to knit a sample (called a swatch) before you begin your project, approximately 4" square. Knit your swatch in the yarn and needles you plan on using for your project. You should also wash and dry your swatch per the washing instructions on the yarn label. Gauge Rulers make measuring your swatch easier.
types of yarn put up
No charge for yarn winding
Skein – the most common; ready to use right away
Ball – wound into a round shape, easy to pull from
Hank – a twisted loop of yarn that needs to be wound before use
Matching your needle size to your yarn helps your stitches look just right—not too tight, not too loose. You’ll always find a recommended needle size on your yarn label—but think of it as a starting point. You can adjust depending on how you like your fabric to feel.
