How Much Yarn Do I Need?

Ever wonder how much yarn you should order for your project? Well, you’re in luck because there’s a simple formula that makes it easy to figure out.

First, find a pattern you like.  Check out the pattern to find out the recommended yarn weight and total yardage necessary to complete the project.  From there, pick a gorgeous color yarn in the weight your pattern calls for. Once you’ve made your yarn choice you should read the yarn description to determine how many yards of yarn each skein has.  Then simply divide the total yards necessary to make the pattern by the total yards in each skein to get the number of skeins you need.

Total Yards Required / Total Yards in Each Skein = number of skeins required

So, if your pattern calls for 1200 yards and the yarn you like has 400 yards per skein, you will need 3 skeins to finish your project.

1200 / 400 = 3

It is important to remember everyone knits or crochets a little differently. The tension at which we make each stitch varies a little from person to person.  This means that the pattern designer may work a stitch a little tighter or looser than you do.  This may mean they use a different amount of yarn than you do to complete a project.

Tip: It may be a good idea to purchase a bit more than you think you’ll need to account for individual differences in your knit and crochet style.  Think of it as little insurance so you are sure to have enough yarn to finish your project.

I hope this simple formula eases your mind and helps you determine how much yarn you need for each project. 

Until next time…Happy Yarnin’

XO

Linda

 

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Check out some of our other topics: yarn draft, fibers, gauge, needles, twist, ply and weight

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My yarn journey