by Gwyn Guthrie

Created on: March 08, 2010   Last Updated: August 07, 2011

The perfect yarn for your crochet or needlework project is the key to the perfect finished product.  With so many different types of beautiful yarns available, a complete knowledge of yarns and their uses will ensure that you make the best choice.  Use your heart and your head for yarn selection and your project will demonstrate the love that you put into every stitch. 

When crocheting from directions, use the specified yarn weight defined in the pattern to achieve results similar to the pattern specifications.  Match your pattern to the yarn label using yarn weight classification based on guidelines from The Craft Yarn Council.  Yarn weights are numbered and range from one to six.  The finest yarn is called fingering yarn and is used  for very delicate items. This yarn will have a number 1 on the label, which indicates that it is a Super Fine yarn.  Most crochet patters call for yarns designated as 2 (Fine), 3 (Light worsted yarn) or 4 (worsted or afghan yarn) and those are the yarn weights carried with the widest variety of colors at leading retail and craft stores.  Lighter weight yarns and finer hooks create a soft and delicate effect.  A heavier weight yarn with a larger hook creates a bulkier look.  Beginners should select a mid-range weight, which will be easier to manipulate and easier to see the stitches as they are being formed. As skills develop, the specialty yarns are available for unique and challenging projects.

The yarn label provides additional information to aid you with preparations. A standard label includes the brand name of the yarn, the fiber content of the yarn, color and dye lot information, number of strands (ply level), gauge specifications and cleaning instructions. 

After selecting the weight for your yarn, choose the proper fiber content and care level needed for the final product.  There are three primary categories of fibers used in yarns. First, protein fibers come from animal hair or insect cocoon fibers.  This category includes wool, mohair, cashmere, angora, camel and silk. Secondly, cellulose fibers are made from plant products.  These fibers, such as cotton and linen, are durable and able to withstand higher temperatures.  Finally, synthetic fibers are made from chemicals and typically designated as polyester, acrylic or polypropylene. The synthetics are usually machine washable, which is a desirable quality in items that will need frequent cleaning, such as clothes and blanket for babies or small children.

After selecting the proper weight, fiber type and care level, choose your favorite color and get ready to crochet!  Be sure to purchase ample quantities for your project and check that the dye lot is identical on all skeins that you select.  Test your gauge by crocheting a small sample using the yarn and crochet hook that you have selected.  Adjust the size of the crochet hook as needed to achieve the correct measurements for the finished item.

Choosing the right yarn for the project can become a project in itself, but it can also be a part of the joyful process of crochet.  The perfect yarn will become the perfect finished project – a cherished garment, afghan, scarf, handbag or even a gift for a loved one!

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