Tips Knitting Choosing Yarns | Choosing Yarns |
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Editorials
Subject: Knitting
Article 4 – Knitting Yarns In older knitting patterns, yarn was often described by ply: 2-ply, 3-ply and so on. This was not a problem because knitters at the time understood a 2-ply yarn to be much thinner than a 4-ply. However, today's yarn sizes can range from the finest gossamer silk thread to extra chunky wool yarn. We need more information before we can be confident in substituting yarns. Don't be fooled into thinking that a 2-ply yarn is thin, and 12-ply yarn is thick. Remember, ply refers to the number of strands that are twisted together to make a particular yarn; it does not describe the weight or class of yearn. The diameter of these plies is what determines the weight of the yarn. Another mistake knitters may make when purchasing yarns is to buy by weight, not by yardage. Two balls of yarn from different companies can have the same weight but completely different yardage. When choosing a different yarn than called for in your pattern, choose a substitute with similar characteristics. Also match up the gauge and needle size used in the pattern. Your final decision will be made with help of a swatch. Make a fairly large sample of knitting, at least 4 x 4 inches, in the main pattern stitch. Does the gauge match the gauge in the instructions? Once you have matched the gauge are you happy with the way the knit fabric looks or drapes? A successful choice of yarn will match the properties of the yarn with the design requirements of the project. The more the knitter learns about these properties, the easier it is to make this match. |