Which yarn suits which knitting tension?
A simple table of yarn weights and typical knitting tensions.
Fine yarn: 26–32 stitches
Sock yarn and fine merino. Suitable for socks, baby clothes and fine jumpers. Needles 2–3 mm.
Medium-weight yarn: 20–24 stitches
The most common group, including Peer Gynt and Karisma. Suitable for jumpers, cardigans and mittens. Needles 3,5–4,5 mm.
Thick yarn: 12–18 stitches
Yarns such as Drops Air or two strands held together. Suitable for quick, warm garments. Needles 5–8 mm.
More guides
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.