Types of Yarn Ladders

Because of their vibrant colors and textures, novelty yarns are becoming increasing popular yarn choices in knit and crochet communities. Yarn ladders—commonly called ladder yarn—look like a mini-ladder or railroad tracks. Crafters use this yarn to add variety and texture to basic projects.

Ribbon

The most popular type of yarn ladder, ribbon yarn is used for a wide variety of projects. This type of yarn has small, usually bright panels of color suspended between two rows of yarn. Ribbon yarn can come in a variety of colors. Sometimes manufacturers combine colors to create a variegated effect. Basic colors are also available. Ribbon yarns work well for basic projects like scarves. To make a basic scarf with ribbon yarn, cast on about 12 to 16 stitches, depending on how long you’d like your scarf. Because ribbon yarn is generally considered to be of bulkier weight, use larger needles. Any size from nine to 11 should work well. Smaller needles will result in smaller stitches, which could minimize the ribbon yarn effect.

Variegated

Variegated ladder yarn simply means that the yarn contains more than one color. While some ladder yarn comes in only one color, most contain many colors. According to Pam England, author of “Knitting for Dummies,” variegated yarn is dyed with several different colors or several shades of one color. When using a variegated ladder yarn, choose a basic pattern. Patterns that demand too much detail are best left for ladder yarns that are all one color. Following a pattern with a variegated yarn will result in a kind of self-striping effect.

Stained Glass

Stained glass ladder yarn is much like ribbon yarn, except that the colors it uses are sheer or translucent, like glass. Also a chunky weight yarn, this type of ladder yarn comes in a variety of sheer colors and has several project possibilities. Use it to make necklaces or bracelets. Because this yarn is sheer and catches the light, it works well with many pendants used in jewelry. Or, make a springtime shawl. To do this, cast on 110 stitches with size nine needles. Knit until the piece is 58 inches, or your desired length. This yarn can also be combined with another yarn to add more substantial color or texture.

References

• "Knitting for Dummies"; Pam Allen; 2002