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How to find yarn length or weight for a knitted garment based on the swatch

Hello, friends!

Knowing how much yarn a garment will require is a key step in planning any knitting project. In this article, we provide helpful tables that allow you to quickly estimate the yarn length or weight needed for your garment, saving you time and making your project more predictable.

Below are four tables to help determine yarn consumption:

Table 1. Yarn length and weight for knitted garments (yards & ounces)

Table 1 Baseline data for determining yarn length and yarn weight knitted garments (in yards and ounces)

 

Table 2. Yarn length and weight for knitted garments (meters & grams)

Table 2 Baseline data for determining yarn length and yarn weight knitted garments (in meters and grams) 

 

Table 3. Yarn length and weight for crocheted garments (yards & ounces)

Table 3 Baseline data for determining yarn length and yarn weight crocheted garments (in yards and ounces) 

 

Table 4. Yarn length and weight for crocheted garments (meters & grams)

Table 4 Baseline data for determining yarn length and yarn weight crocheted garments (in meters and grams)

How to Use the Tables:

  1. Decide whether you are knitting or crocheting and whether you want results in yards/ounces or meters/grams. Choose the corresponding table.

  2. Find the column that matches your swatch data in the “Knitting Swatch Information” or “Crochet Swatch Information” section.

Example:

I plan to knit a garment with DK yarn (220–260 yards per 0.35 oz) using knitting needles. I choose Table 1 and record the following swatch measurements:

  • Stitches per 4 inches (~10 cm) — 22.5

  • Rows per 4 inches (~10 cm) — 30

  • Swatch yarn length (yards) — 15.3

  • Swatch weight (oz.) — 0.23

 

Next, create a project on our website using the KnitPattern Builder. Enter the swatch data, and the yarn consumption will be calculated automatically. The final project report will show the yarn length and weight required.

Example Result:
For a women’s size M pullover, 24 inches (~61 cm) long, with set-in long sleeves and a round neckline (24 inches / ~61 cm circumference), you will need approximately 1,177 yards (~1,076 m) or 17.69 ounces (~501.5 g) of yarn.

Important Notes:

  • Swatch data are averaged. Yarn consumption calculated from these tables is also approximate. Typical error is up to 15%, and up to 20% for larger sizes.

  • For maximum accuracy, knit your swatch yourself, measure it, and perform calculations using the above method.

  • A well-made swatch ensures your garment matches the intended size. Knitting without a swatch can result in garments that are larger or smaller than expected.

Always knit with pleasure and create garments that fit perfectly!

 

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