When it comes to crocheting and knitting, the types of yarn that are available can seem endless. Yarn comes in a wide array of varieties that vary by fiber, weight, color, and texture, so it's important to understand the different types of yarn so you can create something beautiful. All varieties of yarn will work for your craft project, but there are some important best practices you can use to help you find the perfect type of yarn for your creative vision and style. Best yarns for knitting As you peruse yarn styles for your next knitting project, the weight of the yarn plays a big role. Use lighter weight yarns for delicate projects like lacey doilies. Super-fine and lightweight yarns work well for knitting items like socks, gloves, or softer goods designed for babies. This yarn is often referred to as a "sport weight" yarn. A medium weight yarn is ideal for any knitter since it offers excellent stitch definition in clothing items like hats and scarves. And if you want to knit something heavy like a sweater, choose bulky or super bulky weighted yarn in a soft style such as boucle, chenille, or slubby yarn. Best yarns for crocheting You can find yarn for crocheting in just about any material, but the three basic types to use for crocheting are wool, cotton, and acrylic. Wool is a wise choice for practicing since it's quite forgiving if you make a mistake. Wool is easy to unravel and also looks fantastic for any crochet project. Cotton or hemp yarn works wonderfully for anything you need to hold its shape, such as tote bags or blankets. Cotton is light and breathable, so it's also a great option for crocheted items made for summer wear. Acrylic yarn comes in a wide array of colors and is the most affordable type of yarn. Use acrylic yarn for almost anything you can dream up to get versatility and vibrant hues in your next project. Best yarns for no-knit projects You can use yarn for an assortment of projects that don't require knitting. For these creations, your options are endless. The weight and material really depend on your desired outcome, but acrylic or chunky yarns tend to be the most versatile. Select something colorful and bright for a fun kid's craft or try something a bit more muted for no-knit hair accessories or scarves. Or try Bernat Alize-EZ yarn which a brand-new kind of yarn, featuring unique loops that help you make your stitches with perfect tension every time. This yarn requires only your hands to make any project you’d like! Best yarns for wearable items If you're knitting or crocheting something you can wear, the weight and material are the most important factors. wool yarn is warm and great for hats, but it may cause irritation or even an allergic reaction in some people. Cotton yarn is a good option since it's soft and breathable, but it does have a tendency to shrink in the wash. Although alpaca and mohair yarns are extremely soft and cozy, they do tend to shed a lot more than other materials. Select a smooth silk yarn for luxurious items like fine scarves and other pieces that need to be hand-washed only. Try a few different yarn types and experiment with their weight and feel to find the right type for your wearable project. Best yarns for home goods From drink cozies to potholders, you can weave, knit, or crochet just about anything for the home. Blanket yarns work well for items like pillows, while wool is a good choice if you want to make a small rug. Durability is also key when it comes to choosing yarn for home goods. Thicker yarns like Red Heart Scrubby, Bernat Handicrafter and Lily Sugar'n Cream The Original with a heavier weight offer this durability for items like handmade kitchen scrubbers. Use cotton or polyester, machine washable and dryable yarns for items like dishcloths and dish towels. When it comes to your next project, the varieties of yarn are endless. Visit our pattern and yarn sections to find free patterns, gorgeous color choices, and an assortment of yarn and other products so you can start creating today!
