Calculator
How yarn usage is estimated
Yarn consumption depends on three main factors: the total area of your project, the weight (thickness) of the yarn, and the stitch pattern. Denser, more textured stitches like cables and brioche use significantly more yarn per square centimeter than smooth stockinette or open lace.
Yarn weight categories
| Category | Common name | Typical gauge |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Lace | 33–40 sts / 10cm |
| 1 | Super Fine / Sock | 27–32 sts / 10cm |
| 2 | Fine / Sport | 23–26 sts / 10cm |
| 3 | Light / DK | 21–24 sts / 10cm |
| 4 | Medium / Worsted | 16–20 sts / 10cm |
| 5 | Bulky / Chunky | 12–15 sts / 10cm |
| 6 | Super Bulky | 7–11 sts / 10cm |
How stitch pattern affects yarn usage
Different stitch patterns consume yarn at very different rates. Compared to a smooth stockinette base:
- Garter stitch: +5%
- Ribbing (1x1, 2x2): +15%
- Seed stitch: +20%
- Cable: +35%
- Brioche / Fisherman: +60%
- Lace / Openwork: -15%
How to use this calculator
- Enter the finished width and height of your project in centimeters.
- Select your yarn weight from the CYC standard category (check your yarn label).
- Choose the stitch pattern that dominates your project.
- Enter the yardage per skein from your yarn label (this varies by brand).
- Click "Calculate yarn needed" to see total yardage and skeins to buy.
Frequently asked questions
How much yarn do I need for a sweater?
An adult medium sweater in worsted weight yarn typically requires 1,200–1,800 yards. In bulky weight, 800–1,200 yards. In fingering weight, 1,800–2,500 yards. The exact amount depends on size, length, and stitch pattern.
How many yards are in a skein of yarn?
It varies widely by brand and weight. Common yardages: Lace 400–800, Fingering 350–450, Sport 250–350, DK 200–300, Worsted 150–250, Bulky 100–150, Super Bulky 60–100 yards per skein. Always check your yarn label.
Should I add a buffer?
Yes. This calculator already adds a 10% buffer. Professional knitters usually recommend buying one extra skein of the same dye lot, especially for large projects, because running out mid-project with a different dye lot can create visible color differences.
Does crochet use more yarn than knitting?
Yes, generally 25–30% more yarn than knitting for the same surface area. Crochet stitches are taller and denser. If you plan to crochet a pattern designed for knitting, add about 30% to the estimate.
Why does my finished project weigh more than predicted?
Common causes: looser or tighter gauge than expected, blocking that stretches the fabric, or a heavier stitch pattern than estimated. If you're following a pattern, always knit a gauge swatch and compare your actual yarn usage after the first few rows.