Shawl Every Day 2021 - Day 27 - Yarn Weights

Yarn comes in 8 official “weights” which refers to how thick around the yarn is. It ranges from size 0 to 7. The most common beginner weight is 4, which is also called medium or worsted weight. Another common weight is 1, also called super fine or fingering weight, which is used most often for socks and light shawls.

There can be a lot of variation within the weights. Something rated a 4 might be on lighter side and knit up more like a 3 depending on your pattern and needles. The weights are useful guidelines, but you also have to take into account what you are making and how you want the finished product to feel.

Not pictured is 0 (lace weight) which is closer to a thick thread rather than yarn and 7 (jumbo) which is commonly used for big thick fuzzy blankets.

Cowl pattern is Double Knit Kraken Cowl by Kraftling using worsted weight yarn