Types of Yarn & Their Uses

There is a huge range of yarns that are all perfect for different projects. These can be broken up into two categories: the type of yarn indicates what the fibres are made of, and the weight of yarn indicates the thickness of it. Combining different types and weights of yarn can make unique effects.

Wool – The most common yarn out there, it is taken from sheep. It is great for keeping you warm, but it can be very itchy to wear, and some people can have an allergy to this material.

Merino – Another type of wool, this time taken specifically from merino sheep. This is a non-allergenic alternative to normal wool that is very soft. Unfortunately, merino is prone to pilling (fibres creating small fuzzy balls on your work).

Warmer than wool, this yarn is great for winter projects, and this is also a better alternative to wool if you have sensitive skin. However, be warned, this type of yarn doesn’t block well.

Although it has a higher price point, this yarn is a great choice. It is both soft and fluffy, but it lacks in strength. 

A light and breathable yarn to use, this type is great for garments you plan to wear during the warmer months. This yarn is strong, but this also means that it doesn’t block well, and it can easily highlight mistakes and irregularities in your work. 

The best yarn for beginners. This yarn type is cheap due to its man-made fibres. If you know your work may go through a lot of wear and need to be washed often, this is a good yarn to use, but natural fibres are always a better alternative. 

A strong and shiny choice, this yarn can be great for summer items. However, it is very expensive and won’t keep you as warm as other yarns can. It is also quite a slippery yarn to work with, so is not ideal for those with little to no knitting experience. 

Lace – This is one of the thinnest yarns you can get, best for shawls and intricate designs.

Fingering – Also typically used for making shawls, this is slightly thicker than lace.

Sport/DK – Double the thickness of fingering, this yarn weight is usually used for socks.

Worsted/Aran – Universally the best weight of yarn for most projects, Worsted and Aran are slightly different in weight but serve almost the same effect.

Bulky/Chunky – This weight is thick and great for keeping you warm. If you want to make something quickly this weight is perfect, however it isn’t suitable for intricate work.