Yarn Substitution Calculator
Switching yarn for a pattern? This works out how many skeins of the new yarn you need to match the yardage the pattern asks for.
- Free
- Works offline after your first visit
- Saves on this device
- No sign-up
- Updated
How it works
Divide the pattern yardage by the yards in one skein of the new yarn, then round up to a whole skein. Any yards left over are shown too.
Matching yardage is only a start. Knit a gauge swatch in the new yarn, since a different yarn can change the size of the finished piece.
Worked example
A pattern that needs 800 yd is covered by 4 skeins of the new yarn, with 80 yd left over.
Questions
Do I need the same weight of yarn?
Not always, but a yarn of similar weight is the safer swap. Compare the gauge on both labels.
What if I get a fraction of a skein?
Round up. A spare skein is cheap insurance, especially if the dye lot changes.
Is the pattern yardage exact?
Patterns give a rough amount. Use the number in the pattern as your target and leave some room.
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