Yarn size
Depending on the exact
yarn weight Yarn weight refers to the thickness of yarn used by knitters, weavers, crocheters and other fiber artists.
Importance
Changing yarn weight or needle size can have a significant impact on the finished project, so standardized systems have been sp ...
and the gauge of the
knitter or
crochet
Crochet (; ) is a process of creating textiles by using a crochet hook to interlock loops of yarn, thread (yarn), thread, or strands of other materials. The name is derived from the French term ''crochet'', meaning 'hook'. Hooks can be made from ...
er and how tight or loose the yarn is held, the gauge listed below can vary. For this reason it is important to check the gauge of the pattern being used to be sure so the finished project is the desired size. Most patterns have a listed gauge to create an item of the size(s) indicated in the pattern.
Terminology
Common terms used to describe knitting and crochet yarn properties.
Fiber type
Plant based
Cottons
All varieties of
cotton
Cotton is a soft, fluffy staple fiber that grows in a boll, or protective case, around the seeds of the cotton plants of the genus ''Gossypium'' in the mallow family Malvaceae. The fiber is almost pure cellulose, and can contain minor perce ...
have a dull finish unless
mercerized
Mercerisation is a textile finishing treatment for cellulose fabric and yarn, mainly cotton and flax, which improves dye uptake and tear strength, reduces fabric shrinkage, and imparts a silk-like luster.
Development
The process was devi ...
. Cotton yarn has minimal elasticity unless blended with other fibers. Pure cotton is useful for projects that require structure such as
purses and tote bags, placemats, and other utilitarian items.
Other plant fibers
Animal based fibers
Synthetics
Notes
References
* Debbie Stoller, ''Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker'' New York: Workman Publishing, 2006.
* Edie Eckman, ''The Crochet Answer Book'', North Adams, Massachesetts: Storey Publishing, 2005.
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Crochet
Knitting