How to Buy Yarn for Crocheting

Most crocheters are drawn to the craft for love of the intriguing colors and textures of yarn. Browsing in the yarn aisle has probably inspired many a new project.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Crochet Patterns
• Knitting Gauge Rulers
• Ring Markers
• Crochet Hooks
• Crochet Thread
• Row Counter
• Yarns
• Scissors
• Scissors

1. 

   Consult charts, catalogs and reference books to learn characteristics of different types of yarns and crochet thread and to learn which are best suited to certain types of garments. Angora or wool might make a warm sweater, but rugs require heavier rug yarn, and doilies or snowflake ornaments require cotton thread.

2. Use the type of yarn or thread recommended in the pattern directions, if possible.

3. 

   Check care labels on packages.

4. Buy enough yarn at once to complete a project, if possible. If you run out, the same type and color may not be readily available.

5. 

   Wrap yarn into balls to avoid tangles as you work.

Tips & Warnings

• To avoid overbuying yarn, don't be tempted by sales unless you have a specific project in mind. A wise rule is to finish one project before purchasing materials for the next.

[librarylady]

on 1/1/2009 Really good stuff

[Sweetdoggie]

on 3/14/2008 If you are new to crochet, don't start out with a huge project. Afghans are nice, but can get boring when it takes so long to finish them. Start out with something small--washclothes, mittens, scarves. Avoid textured yarns till you are comfortable with the stitches. Dark colors are more difficult to work with than lighter colors because it's harder to see where the loops are.

on 11/22/2005 The easiest yarn to work with when learning the crochet stitches is plain old 4ply worsted weight.