If you’re new to crocheting and just got your hands on some new crochet hooks, you’re probably eager to dive head-first into your debut project. But before you grab the first yarn skein within reach, stop and think about what yarn you really should choose as a beginner crocheter. The right yarn can actually be the decisive factor between a frustrating experience and a fun, relaxing new hobby. Our advice is to explore your options. Ask your family or friends if they have some leftover yarn tucked away in their storage rooms. You can also find cheap yarn at thrift stores. By sourcing beginner yarn this way, you can practice all your stitches with the best yarn without emptying your pockets. In this blog post, we’ll unravel all you’ll need to look for when choosing the best yarn as a crochet beginner. Let’s get into it!
Why Choosing the Right Yarn Matters for Beginner Crocheters
Choosing the right yarn is important when you’re setting out on your crochet journey. Firstly, the right yarn can make learning new stitches a whole lot easier. A smooth yarn without bumps or other features like sequins will glide more effortlessly over the hook. Additionally, using a yarn that’s easy to work with, will help you see your stitches better. For example, some patterns require you to count the stitches while following the pattern. Choosing the right yarn size based on your crochet hook size will also ensure that your project matches the intended design. We sure want to reduce potential frustration when getting to know the basics, and choosing the best yarn for beginner crochet will set you up for success!
5 Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Yarn for a Beginner Crocheter
1. Yarn Weight
Yarn weight refers to the size, or thickness of the yarn strand. Yarn weight is something you’ll encounter throughout your crocheting journey. The Craft Yarn Council has standardized yarn weights into categories to help crafters choose the right yarn for their projects. The yarn size categories range from very fine, delicate threads, to thick bulky strands. As a beginner, you should avoid very thin yarns that tangle easily. Super thick yarn on the other hand, can also be quite heavy to work with, even if it’s easier than the thinner yarn. The best yarn size for beginner crocheters is called medium yarn, also known as aran or worsted yarn. This yarn size is usually numbered as 4 or 5 on the yarn label.
2. Yarn Texture
Textured yarn, like boucle, eyelash yarn, or yarn that incorporates different elements like sequins is super pretty! However, it can make the crochet project more challenging, especially for a beginner. The different textures often make it harder to see where your stitches begin and where they end. Opt for a smooth, non-textured yarn that has consistent thickness throughout the entire skein. This will make it much easier to see the individual stitches, and also make sure that the yarn glides effortlessly from your finger through the stitches.
3. Color and Dye
Multi-color and variegated yarn are very tempting to buy when you spot them. So go ahead! But it might be a good idea to save them for later when you’re becoming more confident with the hook. As with textured yarn, multiple colors can obscure your stitch definition and make it harder to spot errors. The same goes for dark colors like black and navy blue. Choose solid color yarn, but preferably in lighter and neutral colors, like pastel blue, pink, purple, or green. These colors also look super cute on the littmyebag!
4. Ply Count
Ply count refers to the number of individual strands twisted together to make the yarn. Not to be confused with yarn weight, which determines the thickness of the yarn strand, the ply count affects the yarn’s strength and structure. Steer away from single-ply yarn that consists of just one strand. These yarns are often loosely spun, making it easier to split while crocheting. If you’ve split the yarn while stitching, it will also make it a hassle to unravel when you’ve made a mistake. And mistakes are 100% going to happen at some point – we’ve all been there! As a beginner, you should look for yarn with more plies. Multi-ply yarn is more durable and can handle getting unraveled multiple (no pun intended) times. It also gives a better stitch definition and has less tendency to split while crocheting.
5. Fiber Content
The fiber content affects the yarn’s feel and stretch. For starters, look for yarns that are made from acrylic or cotton. These are budget-friendly and very easy to care for after you’ve finished your project, compared to other fibers, such as wool. Wool yarns are a bit more pricey and tend to felt or shrink if not handled properly, which can be a real bummer after all your hard work. If you’re looking for skeins without knowing the fiber content, grab the ones that are smooth with minimal stretch to them. These are great to practice your stitches with, because the smoothness helps you see your stitches clearly, and the minimal stretch makes it ideal for keeping a consistent tension.
Where to Buy Beginner-Friendly Yarn
As mentioned, you don’t need to break the bank to find a good beginner yarn for crocheting. Skeins of high-quality yarn can hide in thrift stores, garage sales, or even in your friends and family’s cardboard boxes in the basement. Not only does yarn-scavenging save you money, it’s also more eco-friendly to give new life to yarn that might otherwise go to waste. By following this yarn guide for crochet beginners, you don’t need to rely on reading labels, as they seldom are attached to scrap yarn! You can also source yarn from different webshops or support your local yarn store.
Why a Blanket is the Perfect Beginner Crochet Project
Now that you know the characteristics of the best yarn to work with as a beginner, let’s practice your stitches. A blanket is a fantastic crochet beginner project as you can focus on the basics; maintaining consistent tension and making stitches. The big project also helps you build muscle memory by its repetitive nature, and you don’t have to think about counting stitches or following a specific pattern. Still not sure what the best yarn for a beginner crochet blanket is? Consider using a cotton or acrylic medium-weight (worsted) yarn in a solid neutral color. Other ideal crochet beginner projects are dishcloths, placemats, coasters, and pot holders.
Psst! Make sure you’re not using acrylic yarn if you’re making a pot holder, as the high temperatures might melt the yarn.
Essential Tools for a Beginner Crocheter
You can go far with just a crochet hook and some yarn. But some additional tools can be great to help you evolve on your crocheting journey. With a set of crochet hooks in various sizes, you can experiment with different types of yarn. You’ll also become comfortable with choosing the right crochet hook for the yarn type. A tape measure is also handy for checking and comparing your gauge if you follow a specific pattern. Don’t forget a pair of sharp scissors for cutting yarn neatly, and a tapestry needle for weaving in the ends of the yarn. This will give your projects a clean, finished look. Lastly, a notebook is perfect for taking notes about your crocheting insights and for tracking your progress. If you prefer to have things digitally, one of our Knit&Note features happens to offer this! Then you can track your progress with pictures too.
Knit&Note App - Your Ultimate Crochet Companion
Selecting the best yarn for a beginner crocheter is super exciting if you know what to look for. Now that you know more about what yarn weight, texture, ply count, fiber content, and colors are best suited for beginners, you can begin the yarn hunt. Check out different websites, physical stores, or your parent’s lofts and basements. Just think about all the handmade projects that are just waiting to be made! To make your crochet adventure even more enjoyable, we’ve made our Knit&Note app packed with crochet patterns, video tutorials, and lots of inspiration to get your gears going. You can also join our knitting and crocheting community and share your projects with others. See you there!
