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Yarn FAQs

   

1. What information should I look for on the yarn label?

The information on the yarn label is helpful in selecting the type of yarn and number of skeins needed for a project. This information includes: yarn brand name, type of yarn (acrylic, cotton, wool, etc.), color name and number, dye lot number or statement that the yarn is "no dye lot", plies (number of strands), weight classification (see point 2 below), ounces or grams, knitting or crochet gauge, and washing instructions.

2. What is meant by "Yarn Weight Classifications?"

The four most common weight classifications of yarn are: bulky for heavy sweaters and afghans, worsted weight for sweaters, afghans, pillows, and craft projects, sport weight for baby apparel, sweaters, and lighter weight afghans, and baby weight for baby afghans and infant clothes. It is important to note that weight has nothing to do with the number of strands or ply of the yarn.

3. Can I substitute one yarn weight for another yarn weight?

Typically, the project instructions specify the weight of yarn to use and it is best not to substitute one weight of yarn for another.

4. Can I substitute different yarn brands of the same yarn weight?

You may substitute a different brand of yarn of the same weight. It is best not to mix different brands of yarn of the same color.

5. Why do some yarns have a dye lot number and others are no dye lot?

Some yarns are dyed in large batches with each batch assigned a "dye lot number". Using a color from the same dye batch assures a perfect color match from skein to skein.  Other yarns are spun from fiber that is already colored and are labeled as "no dye lot" yarns. No dye lot yarns are guaranteed to match from skein to skein by the manufacturer.

6. What are the differences in steel, aluminum, and plastic crochet hooks?
When do I use one kind versus another?

  • Steel crochet hooks (sizes 00 through 14) are typically used with cotton crochet thread for very fine work such as doilies; the higher the size number, the smaller the hook.
  • Aluminum crochet hooks (sizes B through N) are typically used with yarn to make afghans, pillows, apparel, and baby items; the higher the letter, the larger the hook.
  • Plastic crochet hooks (sizes P and Q) are commonly used for larger sized crochet hooks where metal would be too heavy; these are typically used to make "big stitch" projects.

7. What are double point and circular knitting needles used for?
How are they similar and how are they different?

Double point and circular needles are both used for seamless knitting or "knitting-in-the-round."

  • Double point knitting needles come in sets of four and are used to make smaller round pieces such as cuffs, socks and mittens.
  • Circular knitting needles come in various lengths and sizes, and are used for larger round sections such as sleeves, collars, and the body of a sweater.

8. What is "gauge" and how is it determined?

Gauge is the number of stitches and rows in every inch of knitting and the number of stitches and rows (or rounds) in every inch of crochet. The required gauge is specified in knitting and crochet patterns, and determines the finished size of the project. Since everyone knits and crochets differently, it is very important that you make a gauge swatch and match it with the gauge specified in the project pattern. You may find that if you knit or crochet loosely, you may have to use a needle or hook one size smaller than the pattern specifies. Likewise, if you knit or crochet tightly, you may need to use a needle or hook one size larger than the pattern specifies. It doesn't matter what size needle or hook you use as long as your gauge swatch has the same number of stitches and rows per inch as specified in the pattern.

9. Can I reuse yarn that I have ripped out of a project?

You may reuse yarn that you rip out of a project but it is best to get the "kinks" or wrinkles out of it first. The best way to do this is to wrap the yarn around a large, flat piece of cardboard and then apply steam. As with delicate apparel, the steam helps remove the wrinkles and restores the yarn to its "store bought" appearance.