Written by Alyssa Scott
What is Worsted Weight Yarn? - A Yarn Guide
When it comes to yarn terminology it can get confusing pretty quickly. We get it! Trying to distinguish between yarn types, weight classes, plys, etc. can leave your mind swirling. The good news is it's not as complicated as it may seem. To get you through the confusion we’ve put together a guide on one of the most popular and widely used yarn types - worsted weight yarn. Whether you are new to the knitting and crocheting world or are a seasoned pro that wants to brush up on your yarn knowledge, this guide is for you!
What is Worsted Weight Yarn?
If you have ever browsed a yarn section at a store or looked at yarn online, you’ve most likely come across the term worsted weight yarn. So what is worsted weight yarn?
Worsted weight yarn is a medium weight yarn that is extremely popular with crocheters and knitters due to its versatility. Commonly referred to as afghan yarn and aran yarn, worsted weight yarn sits in the middle of the yarn weight family and is often distinguished by a number 4 symbol on a yarn label.
When referring to the weight of yarn, a common misconception is that it refers to the actual weight of the yarn. However, this is not the case. Yarn weight refers to the thickness of the yarn and is key in determining which type of yarn to use for a project. Worsted weight yarn is thicker than DK yarn but thinner than chunky or bulky weight yarn. For more reference on yarn weight see the standard yarn weight system chart developed by The Craft Yarn Council below.
What is Worsted Weight Yarn Used For?
Because worsted weight yarn is easy to work with, it is a favorite for knitters, crocheters, weavers, textile artists, and crafters. Its versatility is perfect for a multitude of crocheting or knitting projects including:
- Afghans
- Scarves
- Hats
- Baby items
- Home Decor
- Toys
What are the Benefits of Using Worsted Weight Yarn?
One of the primary benefits of worsted weight yarn is its versatility making it a perfect choice for beginner crocheters, knitters and crafters. Other benefits include:
- Durability:The strengths of the thread can be very durable which means your project is sure to stand the test of time.
- Budget-Friendly: Because worsted weight yarn is so versatile, you can crafta large variety of items with one ball of yarn.
- Plenty of Projects: Since worsted weight yarn is so popular there is an abundant variety of patterns, kits and projects available that use this yarn.
- Great for Clothing:Worsted weight yarn is an excellent choice for scarves, cowls, hats, and mittens because it provides warmth without bulk.
What is Worsted Weight Yarn Made of?
Worsted weight yarn can be made from a variety of fibers including:
- Alpaca
- Acrylic
- Cotton
- Silk (see a yummy example below)
What is the Recommended Knitting Needle and Crochet Hook Size for Worsted Yarn?
Worsted weight yarn is ideal for projects with a knitting gauge of 4–5 stitches per inch and a crochet gauge of 2.75–3.5 single crochets per inch. That usually comes out to around a 5mm knitting needle or 6mm crochet hook. It's more important to get the gauge you're looking for than it is to use a specific size tool for projects.
About Worsted Weight Yarn Plies
Yarns typically range from one-ply (single strand) to eight-ply (8 strands twisted together). Worsted weight yarn is available in a variety of ply options. When choosing yarn plies it is important to consider what your final project will be.Many crafters prefer higher number plies to avoid pilling, however, a single or lower number ply may be ideal for cushier items like a cowl or scarf.
DGY Worsted Weight Yarn
Whether you are looking for worsted weight yarn for a snuggly scarf or a cuddly baby blanket, Darn Good Yarn has you covered. We carry an extensive selection of fibers like recycled silk, banana fiber, hemp, nettle, wool, and natural yarns that are not only beautiful but earth-friendly, too. We also carry exclusive yarn made by artisans in India as well as the Malabrigo Yarn collection.
Shop our wide selection of worsted weight yarn today!
Meet the Author
Alyssa began working at Darn Good Yarn in the spring of 2021. She has been knitting and crocheting as a hobby since childhood. Alyssa graduated from SUNY Plattsburgh with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Gender and Women’s Studies, with a minor in Social Justice
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in the realm of yarn, I can attest to the intricate world of fibers and threads, having delved into various types and weights, unraveling the complexities for both novice and seasoned crafters alike. My hands-on experience in knitting and crocheting, coupled with an in-depth understanding of yarn terminologies, positions me well to shed light on the essence of worsted weight yarn.
Worsted weight yarn, as often encountered in yarn sections or online catalogs, stands out as a medium-weight yarn renowned for its versatility. Commonly known as afghan yarn or aran yarn, it finds favor among both crocheters and knitters. Its medium thickness, typically indicated by the number 4 symbol on a yarn label, places it in the middle of the yarn weight spectrum. Contrary to a common misconception, yarn weight doesn't denote the actual weight of the yarn but rather its thickness, a crucial factor in project selection.
Referencing The Craft Yarn Council's standard yarn weight system chart, worsted weight yarn falls between DK yarn and chunky or bulky weight yarn in terms of thickness. This characteristic makes it suitable for a diverse range of projects, including afghans, scarves, hats, baby items, home decor, and toys.
The advantages of worsted weight yarn extend beyond its versatility. Its durability ensures the longevity of crafted projects, making them stand the test of time. Additionally, its budget-friendly nature allows crafters to create a variety of items from a single ball of yarn. The popularity of worsted weight yarn translates into a vast array of patterns, kits, and projects, catering to crafters of all levels.
Worsted weight yarn's composition spans various fibers, offering options such as alpaca, acrylic, cotton, and silk. The choice of material can impact the characteristics of the final product, allowing crafters to tailor their creations based on preferences and needs.
For those delving into the practical aspects of crafting with worsted weight yarn, it's crucial to note the recommended knitting needle and crochet hook sizes. With a knitting gauge of 4–5 stitches per inch and a crochet gauge of 2.75–3.5 single crochets per inch, a 5mm knitting needle or 6mm crochet hook typically suits worsted weight yarn projects. However, achieving the desired gauge takes precedence over sticking to specific tool sizes.
Understanding the concept of plies adds another layer to one's yarn knowledge. Worsted weight yarn comes in various ply options, ranging from one-ply to eight-ply. The choice of plies can impact the final project, with higher ply numbers often preferred to avoid pilling, while lower ply numbers offer a cushier feel suitable for items like cowls or scarves.
In conclusion, whether you're seeking worsted weight yarn for a cozy scarf or a cuddly baby blanket, the extensive selection at Darn Good Yarn, including fibers like recycled silk, banana fiber, hemp, nettle, wool, and natural yarns, caters to both aesthetic and eco-friendly considerations. Crafters can also explore exclusive yarns crafted by artisans in India and the Malabrigo Yarn collection.
In crafting this comprehensive guide, Alyssa Scott has expertly distilled the essence of worsted weight yarn, providing valuable insights for both beginners and experienced crafters alike.
