Yarn

When you are selecting yarn for your projects, it is important to know the yarn properties since they will affect the overall look and feel of the item you are knitting. You can find much of this important information on the label around the yarn. Examples of information provided to you include the weight, type of yarn, length and washing instructions. Another important tidbit of information on the label will be the dye lot number.

When yarn is dyed, it is done so in lots and one lot may differ slightly from another as far as the exact shade or hue goes. If you are purchasing yarn of the same color for one project, you will want to make sure each skein is from the same dye lot number. This will ensure a consistent color throughout your entire project.

The types of fibers used to create the yarn are also very important. Various fibers will have different properties since a diverse range of methods and treatments are used during the spinning process. Yarn that is spun from filaments will be smooth and sometimes shiny. One reason for this is that filaments are usually long strands. Staples, which are shorter lengths of fibers, may have a fuzzier appearance.

The thickness of the yarn you purchase is generally referred to as the weight of the yarn. There is a diverse range of yarn weights out there. Some examples include lace weight, fingering yarn (4 ply), sport weight (double knitting), aran, triple or worsted (knitting worsted) and chunky or bulky. The chunky and bulky weight class refers to 14 ply yarn that is very thick and requires large needles to be used.