Everyday

Yarn Weight Calculator

Yardage, skeins and substitution for any project.

Enter your values

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.

Results
Yardage needed
1,200 yd
Skeins to buy
6
In metres
1,097 m
Estimated cost
$54.00
Buy-extra advice
Add 1 skein of the same dye lot for swatches and edging

Quick answer

Yarn needs scale with weight category: a worsted adult sweater takes about 1,200 yards, while the same sweater in fingering takes 1,800–2,200 yards.

skeins = total yardage ÷ yards per skein

At a glance

What it doesYardage, skeins and substitution for any project.
CategoryEveryday
Inputs neededProject, Yarn weight, Yards per skein, Price per skein
Main outputYardage needed
Formulaskeins = total yardage ÷ yards per skein
CostFree — no sign-up, no download

How to use the Yarn Weight Calculator

  1. 1Choose the project type.
  2. 2Pick the yarn weight category you're using.
  3. 3Enter yards per skein from the ball band.

Inputs explained

Project
Choose one of: Hat, Scarf, Pair of socks, Adult sweater, Child sweater, Blanket (throw).
Yarn weight
Choose one of: Lace / fingering, Sport / DK, Worsted / aran, Bulky, Super bulky.
Yards per skein
Enter the yards per skein you are working with.
Price per skein($)
Enter the price per skein you are working with.

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with:

Inputs

  • ProjectAdult sweater
  • Yarn weightWorsted / aran
  • Yards per skein220
  • Price per skein9 $

Results

  • Yardage needed1,200 yd
  • Skeins to buy6
  • In metres1,097 m
  • Estimated cost$54.00
  • Buy-extra adviceAdd 1 skein of the same dye lot for swatches and edging

Frequently asked questions

How many skeins for a sweater?

About 6 skeins of 220-yard worsted for an average adult sweater, or 9–10 in fingering weight.

Why buy the same dye lot?

Dye lots vary subtly; mixing them mid-garment shows as a visible colour band across the fabric.

Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.