All About Yarn
Depending on the type of project you have in mind, certain yarn fibers might work better. I’m only going to mention some common ones.
Animal-based like wool
They are breathable but also resistant to moisture, so are good for warmth in the winter. Wool is prone to pilling so I wouldn’t recommend it for things that will receive lots of tender love like stuffies or blankets. Wool itself can also be a bit itchy so if that is an issue, it would be best to find a blend with alpaca or something softer. Have to be hand washed and laid flat to dry.
Plant-based like cotton
It is smooth and has good drape but it not very elastic and can break easily if pulled too hard. Cotton does shrink and can be washed delicately but I would handwash and air dry. Because of its durability though, this is my favorite fiber for blankets, kitchen towels, and stuffed toys.
Synthetic like acrylic
Acrylic has such a wide range of textures. Some are stiffer and coarse but some are quite soft as well. You really have to touch them in person and experiment with a few brands to see what you really like. I’ve found RedHeart Super Saver to be a bit more on the coarse and stiffer side but certain colors are soft too; not sure if it’s due to the certain dye for certain colors? Vanna’s choice, caron simply soft, and Hobby Lobby’s I Love This Yarn are other brands I’ve tried and liked.
The fiber strands are called plies and are spun together; this gives yarn their weight categories.
Category 0-1 (1-2 ply): lace and super fine/fingering/sock
Use for doilies mainly and clothing items like tops and socks. I made a shawl for my mother-in-law once with fingering yarn and I will probably never use this category yarn again. Although I love the drape, I need more patience and discipline for it. LOL.
Category 2 (3-4 ply): fine/sport
Use for socks mainly and other clothing items like gloves, hats, baby items, and tops.
Category 3 (5 ply): light/DK/Light Worsted
Can be used for all sorts of clothing items and sometimes stuffies.
Category 4 (8-10 ply): Medium/Aran/Worsted
Most popular and widely used for almost all projects. This would be the best choice when starting to learn as well.
Category 5-6 (10-14 ply): bulky/chunky and super bulky
Easy to use and create fast projects.
Category 7 (14-16 ply): Jumbo
I’ve never worked with this kind of extreme crochet/knitting. :P Please do let me know how y’all like it. I’ve only seen huge rugs and blankets made with this weight of yarn.
Regardless of what type of fiber or weight you use, most come with a label including what size hook/needles to use and how to wash it. Pay attention to the dye lot number too because different lots can have a slightly different shade. So if you know how much you need for a project, I suggest getting enough or more from the same dye lot.