There are actually many types of yarn that you can use for a wide range of knitting and crochet projects. The following articles explains which type of yarn is best suited to certain projects.

As mentioned previously in our blog post for beginners, new knitters and crocheters should start off with brightly coloured wool that contrasts with your needles or hook – not the variegated kind, it’s best to use solid colour.

This will make it far easier to see your stitches, so when you do make mistakes, it’ll be a lot easier to spot the problem and fix it. Our best wool for complete beginners is our Value Double Knitting range, available in 4 bold colours.

If you’re slightly more advanced, you can start to experiment with colourful variegated wool – you’ll have built up a certain level of skill already, so a change in colour won’t be too distracting!

For more delicate patterns, including lace and shawls, you’re best suited to a lighter, finer yarn – particularly those wools which are blended with other fibres (e.g. cashmere, mohair, and angora).

For winter jumpers, aran/chunky wool is best. This kind of wool will definitely keep you warm when you need it the most.

For lighter jumpers and cardigans, lightweight DK yarn is more suitable. Made from soft, breathable material, this yarn is perfect for making garments for spring or autumn.

For summer clothing and accessories, cotton yarn (or yarns made from any other plant fibre) is the best type of yarn for lighter and cooler projects naturally lightweight and breathable.

For rugs, acrylic or chunky wool is a great choice – these really keep their warmth.

If you’re allergic to natural wool, don’t worry – you can still knit and crochet! Acrylic yarn is best suited to those with allergies, because it doesn’t consist of the same irritable fibres as natural wool.

If there’s a crafting question you’d love us to answer, simply get in touch via our social media or email us.