Knitting Yarn Yardage Calculator
Created by: Ethan Brooks
Last updated:
Calculate exactly how much yarn you need for your knitting project. Enter your gauge measurements, project dimensions, and stitch pattern to get accurate yardage estimates. Never run out of yarn mid-project again!
Knitting Yarn Yardage Calculator
KnittingCalculate exactly how much yarn you need for your knitting project
Project Dimensions
Your Gauge (from swatch)
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What is a Knitting Yarn Yardage Calculator?
A Yarn Yardage Calculator helps knitters determine exactly how much yarn they need for any project. By entering your gauge, project dimensions, and yarn specifications, you can calculate the total yardage required and number of skeins to purchase.
Whether you're planning a sweater, blanket, scarf, or any other knitted item, accurate yardage calculation prevents running out of yarn mid-project and helps you budget appropriately for your craft supplies.
Standard Yarn Weights
0 - Lace: 400-800 yards per 50g, needles US 000-1
1 - Fingering/Sock: 350-450 yards per 100g, needles US 1-3
2 - Sport: 250-350 yards per 100g, needles US 3-5
3 - DK/Light Worsted: 200-250 yards per 100g, needles US 5-7
4 - Worsted: 180-220 yards per 100g, needles US 7-9
5 - Bulky: 100-150 yards per 100g, needles US 9-11
6 - Super Bulky: 50-100 yards per 100g, needles US 11-17
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate how much yarn I need for a project?
Multiply your gauge (stitches per inch) by your project width to get total stitches per row. Multiply rows per inch by project length for total rows. Then multiply total stitches by total rows and divide by your yarn's yards per skein. Always add 10-20% extra for safety.
What is yarn weight and how does it affect yardage?
Yarn weight refers to thickness - from lace (0) to jumbo (7). Thicker yarns cover more area per yard but use more yarn overall. A fingering weight sweater might need 1500 yards while the same sweater in bulky weight needs only 800 yards, but the bulky yarn weighs more.
How do I measure my knitting gauge accurately?
Knit a swatch at least 6 inches square in your pattern stitch. Wash and block it as you would the finished item. Measure stitches and rows in the center 4 inches (edges are often uneven). Count partial stitches for accuracy.
Why does my yarn yardage estimate differ from the pattern?
Your gauge may differ from the pattern's gauge, you might knit tighter or looser, or your project dimensions may vary. Colorwork, cables, and texture stitches also use more yarn than stockinette. Always swatch and calculate for your specific situation.
How much extra yarn should I buy?
Buy 10-20% extra yarn for most projects. Add more for colorwork (20-30%), cables (15-25%), or if you're new to the pattern. Running out of yarn mid-project can be a problem if dye lots differ. Leftover yarn can always be used for small projects.
What if I can't find the same yarn the pattern calls for?
Substitute with yarn of the same weight category and similar fiber content. Check yards per skein - if your substitute has different yardage, recalculate how many skeins you need. Always knit a gauge swatch with your substitute yarn.
How do I calculate yarn for a blanket?
Measure desired width and length. Calculate total square inches, then use your gauge to determine total stitches and rows. For a rough estimate: baby blankets need 800-1200 yards, throw blankets 1500-2500 yards, and full-size blankets 3000+ yards in worsted weight.
Does stitch pattern affect yarn usage?
Yes, significantly. Stockinette uses the least yarn. Garter stitch uses about 30% more. Seed stitch and ribbing use 10-20% more. Cables can use 20-40% more depending on complexity. Lace uses less because of the open holes. Always factor this into your calculations.
Sources and References
- Craft Yarn Council, "Standard Yarn Weight System", 2024
- Ravelry, "Yarn Database and Project Analytics", 2024
- The Knitter's Handy Book of Patterns by Ann Budd