Choosing the Best Yarns for Crochet Beginners? 5 Things to Keep in Mind

There are a sheer variety of yarns to choose from for your crochet project.

While it may be fun to have so many options on hand, it may be quite stressful for some beginners. It is really important to choose the right yarn that can complement your skills and bring out the best in your crochet project.

But going through the overwhelming process of choosing yarn can be frustrating. Keeping this in mind, we have come up with the things to look for in your yarn while starting your crochet journey on a great note.

Let’s get started.

Medium Weight Yarn

One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing yarn for crochet is its weight. Yarn weight refers to the thickness of the yarn, and it plays a significant role in how your finished project will look and feel.

The weight and texture of your yarn impact the final results. Beginners can get started with medium-weight yarns (like worsted weight) ((Category 4) or bulky weight yarn (Category 5) as they are easy to handle and let you see your stitches.

Smooth Texture

The next thing is texture which should be smooth.

As a beginner, you want a yarn that glides smoothly over your hook and doesn’t snag or split easily. This is where the concept of plied yarn comes into play.

Plied yarns are made up of multiple strands twisted together, which gives them a smooth surface and makes them easier to work with. This type of yarn offers a better stitch definition, meaning your stitches will appear more clearly, and your work will look neat and even.

This is especially helpful when you’re learning new stitches, as it allows you to see exactly how each stitch is formed.

Avoid yarns with a fuzzy or hairy texture, like mohair or eyelash yarn, as these can be difficult to work with and may hide your stitches, making it harder to see your progress and correct mistakes. Stick to smooth, plied yarns that will allow you to focus on learning the techniques without the frustration of dealing with tangles and snags.

Acrylic

Fiber determines the feel, durability, and suitability of your crochet project. Beginners can choose acrylic yarns as it is easy to take care of and affordable as well. Cotton yarns are ideal for warm climates and summer clothes, while wool yarns are an obvious choice for warm and winter outfits.

Wool is warm and has a bit of stretch, which can be helpful when working on certain projects. However, it can be slightly more challenging to work with compared to acrylic, and some people may find it itchy.

Cotton yarn is smooth, durable, and has excellent stitch definition, making it another good option for beginners. However, it lacks the elasticity of wool, so it can feel a bit stiff and may not be as forgiving if you make mistakes.

As a beginner, it’s perfectly fine to start with acrylic yarn and gradually experiment with other fibers as you become more comfortable with your skills and want to try different projects.

Color and Dye Lot

Choosing the right color can accentuate your crochet experience. Lighter shades are not only easier to work with but also make the stitches more visible. However, if you are buying skeins in large quantities, make sure they have the same dye lot number to avoid color variation in the project. Dark colors, like black or navy, can make it difficult to see the individual stitches, leading to frustration and mistakes.

Solid colors are also recommended over multi-colored or variegated yarns. While these can be fun to work with once you’ve gained some experience, they can be distracting when you’re still learning. A solid color allows you to focus solely on the stitch patterns and your technique.

Affordable Yarns

As a beginner, you’ll likely be practicing a lot, which means you might unravel and re-crochet your work several times. For this reason, it’s wise to start with an inexpensive yarn. This way, you won’t feel guilty about making mistakes or wasting yarn as you learn and experiment with different stitches and techniques.

Acrylic yarn is often the go-to choice for beginners because it’s affordable, widely available, and comes in a variety of colors and weights. It’s also durable and easy to care for, making it perfect for practice pieces. Once you’ve gained confidence and feel more comfortable with your skills, you can explore more expensive yarns, such as wool, cotton, or blends.

Key Takeaways

Choose Medium Weight Yarn

Opt for worsted (Category 4) or bulky (Category 5) yarns, as they provide the perfect balance of thickness and ease of handling, making it easier to see and manage your stitches.

Go for Acrylic Yarn

Start with acrylic yarn as it is affordable, durable, and easy to use for beginners.

Pick Light-Colored Yarn:

Light and solid colors, such as pastels or neutrals, are easier on the eyes and allow you to see your stitches more clearly. Avoid dark or variegated yarns that can make your work difficult to see and follow.

Select Smooth-Textured Yarn

A smooth, plied yarn glides effortlessly over your hook and offers excellent stitch definition. This helps you create neat and even stitches.

Choose Affordable Yarn:

Since you’ll likely be practicing a lot, go for an inexpensive yarn that allows you to make mistakes without feeling guilty.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right yarn for crochet beginners doesn’t have to be stressful. By considering factors like yarn weight, texture, color, and price, you can select a yarn that will make your learning experience enjoyable and frustration-free.

Start with worsted or bulky weight yarns in smooth textures and light, solid colors, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes as you practice.

With the right yarn in hand, you’ll be well on your way to mastering crochet and creating beautiful projects with confidence. Also, you can reach out to your nearest yarn store or yarn vendor to choose the right yarn for your project.