Learn to crochet
How to choose crochet yarn
Choose crochet yarn by matching the yarn weight and yardage to the pattern, picking a fiber suited to the item's use and care, and checking that the yarn is smooth, evenly spun and consistent in thickness. Buy all skeins from one dye lot, and swatch before committing to a large project.
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How do you match yarn to a crochet pattern?
Match yarn to a crochet pattern by choosing the same weight category and a similar yards-per-100 g figure, then confirming gauge with a swatch. Fiber content should also behave similarly, because cotton and wool drape differently.
Which yarn weight is best for each crochet project?
The best yarn weight depends on the project's drape, warmth and speed.
| Project | Common yarn weight | Common fiber |
|---|---|---|
| Dishcloths and coasters | Medium (4) | Cotton |
| Amigurumi | Fine (2) to medium (4) | Cotton or acrylic |
| Baby blankets | Fine (2) to light (3) | Baby acrylic, cotton blends |
| Throw blankets | Medium (4) to super bulky (6) | Acrylic, blends, chenille |
| Beanies | Medium (4) to bulky (5) | Wool, merino, acrylic |
| Summer tops | Fine (2) to light (3) | Cotton, bamboo blends |
| Shawls | Super fine (1) to light (3) | Merino, blends |
| Market bags | Medium (4) | Cotton |
What are signs of good quality crochet yarn?
Good quality crochet yarn has an even thickness, a consistent twist that does not split easily, minimal knots in the skein and soft fibers that do not shed heavily when rubbed.
Rub a strand between your fingers: excessive fuzz or pilling at this stage predicts pilling in the finished item.
How do you read a yarn label?
Read a yarn label by locating the weight category, fiber content, length, weight in grams, recommended hook size, gauge, care symbols and dye lot number.
- Find the yarn weight symbol, a numbered skein from 0 to 7.
- Note the yards and grams per skein to compare with the pattern.
- Check the recommended hook size and gauge square.
- Read the care symbols for washing and drying instructions.
- Record the dye lot number and buy every skein with the same number.
Patterns to practise on
How to crochet a classic granny square
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 35 yd
Free pattern
Easy moss stitch crochet dishcloth
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 100 yd
Free pattern
Simple half double crochet baby beanie in the round
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 130 yd
Free pattern
Quick round crochet coaster in cotton
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 4.5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 18 yd
Free pattern
Frequently asked questions
Is expensive yarn always better?
No. Price reflects fiber and brand; a well-made acrylic can be the better choice for a washable blanket.
What is a dye lot?
A dye lot is a batch of yarn dyed together. Skeins from different lots can differ slightly in color.
How much extra yarn should I buy?
Buy about 10 percent extra, or one additional skein, to cover gauge differences and borders.