🧶 Understanding the different types of yarn: Sport, DK, Worsted, Bulky… The ultimate guide to choosing the right yarn for your knitting projects

Knit Sis

🧵 Introduction

Have you ever come across a knitting pattern that lists "DK" or "Sport" yarn without knowing exactly what it means? Don't panic, we're here to help demystify these terms and guide you in choosing the ideal yarn for your creations.

🧶 The different thicknesses of wool

📏 Summary table of wool categories

Category

English equivalent

Gauge (stitch count per 10 cm)

Recommended needles

Typical use

Baby wool

Fingering

28-32

2-3 mm

Socks, lace, layette

Fine wool

Sport / 5 ply

24-26

3-3.5 mm

Thin sweaters, light scarves

Medium wool

DK (Double Knit)

22-24

3.5-4.5 mm

Sweaters, cardigans, accessories

Classic wool

Worsted / Aran

16-20

4.5-5.5 mm

Sweaters, hats, mittens

Thick wool

Chunky / Bulky

12-15

6-8 mm

Large sweaters, blankets, collars

This chart gives you an overview of the different wool categories, from finest to thickest, with needle recommendations and typical uses.

🧵 Focus on Sport and DK yarns

🧶 Sport Wool

🔹Thickness : Slightly thicker than fingering.

🔹Recommended needles : 3-3.5 mm.

🔹Use : Ideal for lightweight sweaters, thin scarves or children's clothing.

🧶 DK (Double Knit) yarn

🔹Thickness : Thicker than the Sport, but thinner than the Worsted.

🔹Recommended needles : 3.5-4.5 mm.

🔹Use : Perfect for sweaters, cardigans and accessories.

The main difference between Sport and DK yarn is the yarn thickness. Sport yarn is slightly finer than DK, making it ideal for lighter projects. DK yarn, on the other hand, offers a good balance between finesse and warmth, making it versatile for various projects.

🧶 How to choose the right wool for your project?

1️⃣ Read the pattern carefully : Most patterns indicate the recommended wool category.

2️⃣ Consider the end use : A winter sweater will require a thicker yarn like Worsted or Bulky, while a lightweight shawl can be knitted with Fingering or Sport.

3️⃣ Make a swatch : Before you start, knit a swatch to check that the tension matches that of the pattern.

🧶 Knit-sis patterns adapted to each type of wool

🔸Sport Wool:

➡️ Aude vest : Elegant with subtle openwork patterns.

🔸DK yarn:

➡️ Vasarely Sleeveless Sweater : A timeless model and ideal for getting started with intarsia

➡️ Sunrise sleeveless sweater : Dynamic with an integrated landscape pattern.

🔸Worsted Wool:

➡️ Festi Vest : Colorful and festive, ideal for expressing your creativity.

➡️ Elmer Vest : Original with a two-tone basket stitch.

🔸Bulky Wool:

➡️ Tulip and Mon Amour sleeveless sweater : Bold with jacquard patterns.

🎯 Conclusion

Understanding the different types of wool is essential for successful knitting projects. Choosing the right yarn thickness ensures the desired result and a comfortable garment. Don't hesitate to explore our patterns adapted to each type of wool to find inspiration and start new projects!

Ready to knit your next masterpiece? Discover our complete collection of patterns suitable for every type of yarn on Knit-sis.com . Join our community of enthusiasts and share your creations with us!

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