Understanding which yarn weights to choose for your upcoming crochet projects can be confusing, even to the seasoned crocheter, but with some basic knowledge of yarn fibers and the best yarn weights for different types of projects, you will be fast on your way to making the perfect crochet gifts.
Did you know that there is a Craft Yarn Council? They are really the standard authority on all things yarn related and have great tools on their website (see link below). I pulled their Standard Yarn Weight System chart when I began making different items. As I plan my handmade crochet project, I consider how I want the finished item to look, feel, and weigh.
Planning Your Project
For example, when making crocheted blankets, I typically use a 4 (medium) weighted yarn. This yarn weight is perfect for blankets, shawls, sweaters, hats, socks, etc. It is sturdy and in my opinion one of the easiest yarns to work with – I can really crochet fast with this weight!
Now let’s talk crocheted baby gifts. . . for these projects, I typically stick with a 3 (light) weighted yarn, but in some instances, I will use a 2 (fine). Working with this weight is a little trickier and definitely takes some practice. I tend to slow down my crocheting with these yarns so that I do not snag or miss a stitch but the end results is a soft, delicate piece.
A lot of my crochet projects are made with 100% cotton yarn, which range from a 3 to 4 yarn weight. Again, depending on what I am making, it will determine which I choose. Crocheted baby gifts I typically stick with the 3 weight, but crocheted bags and shawls I will use a 4 weight.
The bulkier weights – 5 to 7 – are typically used for crocheted chunky blankets, crocheted stuffed animals, and chunky sweaters and the like. Working with the bulky or chunky weighted yarn is not my specialty so I leave that to others usually!
"Choosing the perfect yarn weights for your crochet project will become easier the more you use different weights of yarn." My suggestion is try them all and find the ones you like best! You will most likely find a favorite yarn weight, favorite brand, and favorite hook size (more on that later). The point is to experiment and have fun creating!
Resource: Craft Yarn Council's www.YarnStandards.com
https://www.craftyarncouncil.com/standards/yarn-weight-system
