Yarn weights and Tensions
Not all these yarns are suitable for machines. This is just a reference guide. 2 ply (also referred to as Lace Weight) 32-36 stitches and 42-46 rows to 10cm using 2.25mm – 2.75mm needles Extra-delicate and almost lighter than air. This yarn is generally used to knit very light-weight items such as shawls, scarfs and baby knits. 3 ply (also referred to as Fingering Weight) 33 stitches and 40 rows to 10cm using 3mm – 3.25mm needles Used for light-weight items such as shawls and baby garments. 4 ply (also referred to as Fingering, Sock or Baby Weight) 27-32 stitches and 36 rows to 10cm using 3.25mm - 3.75mm needles Used for lighter weight baby garments, shawls, fitted adult knits such as ladies jumpers and tops, delicate adult shawls, intarsia work, socks and amigurumi. 5 ply (also referred to as Sport or Baby Weight) 24-28 stitches and 34-36 rows to 10cm using 3.25mm – 3.575mm needles This yarn weight was used for knitting traditional Guernsey or ‘Gansy’ sweaters, a traditional fisherman’s jumper. It is also a common yarn weight in American. It creates a lightweight fabric so also makes it ideal for intarsia projects, baby and children’s garments. DK (also referred to as Light Worsted Weight or 8 ply) 22 stitches and 28-30 rows to 10cm using 4mm needles The most versatile of all the yarn weights. Can be used for baby garments, shawls, baby accessories, adult sweaters, cardigans, tops, scarves, hats, gloves, homewares, blankets, toys. Aran (also referred to as Worsted Weight or 10 ply) 18 stitches and 24 rows to 10cm using 5mm needles Traditionally used for traditional Aran style jumpers and cardigans with cable designs. Also used for blankets and other homewares, thicker garments for babies and adults and accessories such as scarves, hats and gloves/mittens. Chunky (also referred to as Bulky, 12 ply or 14 ply) 14 stitches and 19-20 rows to 10cm using 6mm – 6.5mm needles Good for thick and warm projects like winter jumpers, scarves, hats, blankets and home accessories. Also good for arm knitting. Creates super cosy makes that knit and crochet up quickly.