Depending on how long you’ve been crocheting, your comfort level with yarn may vary. Often, beginners tend to stick to the same yarn because it’s familiar and it’s easy to work with. Generally, worsted weight is the go-to when learning or practicing. There are so many different types of yarn and today I’d like to talk about the different weights and what projects you might use them for.

The first thing we do when determining the weight of yarn is to look at the label. Usually on the back, you’ll see a section that has the dye lot, washing instructions, hook/needle size, etc. Included in this section will be a little number and word describing the yarn weight.

Below is a list of the different yarn weights and what category they fall into:

0 – Lace (Fingering yarn, crochet thread)
This yarn is used for delicate and open textured designs. Shawls, doilies, light wearables, etc. It has a beautiful drape effect and allows for loose, open and soft projects.

1 – Super Fine (Fingering, sock, baby yarn)
Use this yarn to create wearables such as shawls, socks and scarves. Home décor items like thin curtains or doilies. This is also good for delicate projects.

2 – Fine (Sport, Baby yarn)
This yarn could be used to create lightweight blankets, wearables, accessories or home décor items.

3 – Light (DK, light worsted yarn)
This yarn begins to get a little bit thicker but is still appropriate for some delicate items. #3 weight yarn is great for a variety of projects such as blankets, motifs and wearables.

4 – Medium (Worsted, aran yarn)
Worsted weight is probably the most popular and most frequently used, especially when learning crochet. It’s ideal for blankets, wearables such as cardigans, hats, shawls, mittens and scarves. It works up beautifully for home décor items such as throw pillow covers, motifs and other everyday items and accessories.

5 – Bulky (Bulky, chunky, craft)
This yarn works up quickly because of the thickness and makes for beautiful texture and designs. This yarn does produce bulkier items but also with a squishy and cozy feeling. Hats, scarves, some wearables, throw pillows and blanket patterns work great with this yarn weight.

6 – Super Bulky (Super bulky, chunky, roving)
If you’re looking for a yarn that will complete a project quickly, this will do the trick. Make cowls, scarves or even a super thick and cozy blanket. It would also make a squishy rug too!

7 – Jumbo (Jumbo, roving, giant)
This yarn is the thickest and heaviest weight. They are great for arm knitting and creating blankets, rugs, baskets or throw pillow covers.

Sometimes people will look for yarn based on what is needed for a pattern. Other times, someone might choose a yarn first and then search for a pattern using that specific weight. Whichever method you use when selecting yarn, it’s important to ensure that an appropriate sized crochet hook is used to compliment that yarn and pattern properly.

Once you get comfortable using a certain weight of yarn, take a leap and try a new brand or new yarn weight. Learn how it works up and how the texture differs from your usual preferences. This also goes for the fibre used to create the yarn. Try something new!

Do you have a favourite yarn weight? What is your favourite thing to make with it? Let me know me in the comments below.

As always, you can find me on Instagram (@sweet_bee_crochet) or head over to my Contact page for other ways to get in touch.

Happy crocheting!