by M. J. Joachim

Created on: November 03, 2009

If you ever want to learn to crochet or knit, you need to learn how to read yarn labels. They contain so many little details that will help you achieve optimal results with less effort. Knowing how to read yarn labels will help you keep color shades perfect, combine different textures of yarn in the same project, and use the right tools for your project. Reading and following yarn labels is absolutely essential if you want your work to look its best.

*Front of Yarn Label: On the front of the label, you will notice the brand and manufacturer. This is important because you can often mix and match different yarns in the same project. If you do this, it is better to stick with the same brand and/or manufacturer, because they often produce a similar product. It's also good to get to know different yarn brands and manufacturers, so that you can choose your favorites for all your projects.

*Side Panel of Yarn Label: On the side of the label (above, below, to the right or left), you can read what the yarn is made of. It usually tells you the fiber content, how it is made and who made it. Nearby it will tell you what ply it is, and whether or not it's worsted. Then it will give you the weight of the skein in grams and ounces. Sometimes it will tell you preferred projects for this particular yarn, and recommend hook or needle sizes for its use.

*UPC Code and Information: Near the UPC Code, there are some numbers that you need to know for almost every project you make. The first number is a color dye lot number. When you make a large project and need more than one skein of the same color, you always want to make sure your dye lot number is the same. The actual color will be listed first, as one number on the label; below that will be another number that varies from skein to skein. The second number is the dye lot number, and you will want to purchase all the skeins you need at the same time, matching the dye lot number. Dye lot numbers change with each new batch of dye made, so if you only rely on basic color, your project may have subtle or obvious shade differences throughout it.

*Basic Care Instructions: Most yarn labels include some sort of care instructions for their product. These are important and you will want to include them with your project should you give the finished product away as a gift. If there are care instructions on the top of the label, they may refer you to the back for more detailed information. On the back of the label, you are also likely to find a free pattern that can be made from your choice of yarn.

Learn more about this author, M. J. Joachim.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.