Worsted Weight Yarn – A Complete Crochet Guide To This Yarn Weight

By Jodie Morgan

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Ever wondered if there’s a multipurpose fiber? You’re in luck! Worsted weight yarn is a favorite yarn because you can crochet many things with it! Read more for more information on what it is, how to use it, how thick it is, and what hook sizes to use with it.

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I reviewed, fact checked and updated this post on April 14, 2023.

Table Of Contents

What Is Worsted Weight Yarn?

It’s a type of yarn that isn’t heavy, but it’s not light either. This yarn type is heavier than the fingering, sports, baby, and double knitting or DK yarns, but lighter than the bulky weights.

Yarn worsted weight is easy to crochet with and creates crocheted fabric quickly, without the result being too bulky.



Throughout your crocheting journey, you’ll no doubt use worsted-weight in your projects and patterns many times. It’s an excellent choice for beginners, and popular among pattern designers, publishers, and brands for beginner projects.How

Do You Spot Worsted Weight Yarns At Craft Stores?

Sometimes the yarn label on worsted weight yarns will have a big 4, signifying medium or it will say ‘Medium’, or both. You’ll be spoiled for choice when choosing a skein or hank in this category, from brands like Lang Yarns and Berroco to Cascade.

How Popular Is Worsted Weight Yarn?

Knitters and crocheters both love this yarn; it’s super popular! It’ss on various popular yarn companies like Lion Brand & Bernat most-sold list. One of Lion Brand’s most popular yarns, Malabrigo is worsted.

What Kind Of Yarn Weight Is Worsted Weight?

Worsted yarn is medium, or number four. It has an average crochet gauge of 2.75–3.5 stitches per inch, and a knitting gauge of 16–20 sts on US 7 to 9 knitting needles.

Best Crochet Hook Size For These Yarns

Here are what crochet hooks to use for the worsted yarn.



  • Metric (Australia and New Zealand sizes): 5.5mm, 6.0mm, 6.5mm
  • US Sizes: I–9 to K–10 1⁄2

However if you want to create lacy, openwork patterns, or a looser project or patterns, use a larger hook size.

What Is Worsted Yarn Used For?

Here’s what you can make with this type of yarn: garments, gloves, stuffed toys, scarves, sweaters, cowls, blankets, and socks.

Worsted Weight Yarn Equivalents and Substitutions

  • Equivalent to this weighted yarn: aran and Afghan
  • Substitution: DK weight yarn held double. Here’s a nifty tip: You can try using two different colored DK yarn balls to make multicolored yarn that’s yarn weight worsted.

FAQs About Worsted Yarns

Is Worsted Weight Yarn The Same As DK?

No, worsted weight yarn isn’t the same as double knitting yarn (DK yarn). They’re two separate weights. Worsted yarn is heavier than DK yarn.

Is 4 Ply Yarn Wool Worsted?

No. Worsted weight yarn is typically ten ply.

What Is The Meaning Of Worsted?

Definition of ‘worsted’ from the Oxford Dictionary: “A fine smooth yarn spun from combed long-staple* wool.” *Long-staple means a wool yarn that has long fibers.



How Thick Is Worsted Weight Yarn?

It’s is a medium weight or a number 4 in the Craft Yarn Council yarn weight system.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you learned something more about the wonderful world of yarn. Happy crocheting, crafters! Do you like working with this kind of yarn, if so, why, and what things do you make with it? I’d be interested to hear your thoughts. Something I forgot? Leave a comment at the end.

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About The Author

Jodie Morgan From Crochet Penguin

Jodie Morgan (Author & Founder)

[email protected] | Lives In: Regional Australia

Author: Jodie Morgan is a passionate crocheter and blogger with 17+ years of experience currently living in regional Australia. Taught by her mother, she fell in love with crocheting after her first child was born. When she’s not crocheting, you’ll find her enjoying a cup of coffee with cream, or sharing helpful resources and tips with the online crochet community. Please say hello, or see what she's making on socials.

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