Guides
Quick answers to common yarn questions – whether you knit or crochet.
How do you choose yarn for a pattern?
Start with the yarn specified in the pattern – and know what to look for if you want to substitute it.
How much yarn do I need?
How to read the yarn requirements in a pattern and recalculate when you change size or yarn.
How do you substitute yarn in a knitting pattern?
Step by step: find a substitute yarn that gives the same size and feel.
How do you substitute yarn in a crochet pattern?
Crochet is more sensitive to yarn thickness – here is how to find a yarn that works.
What does knitting tension mean?
Tension determines whether your garment will be the right size. Here is how to measure it.
Which yarn suits which knitting tension?
A simple table of yarn weights and typical knitting tensions.
How do you calculate how much yarn you need?
The formula for recalculating yarn quantities when substituting yarn.
What is the difference between wool, alpaca and mohair?
Three common fibres – how they differ in warmth, feel and durability.