About Worsted Weight Yarn

Worsted weight (category 4), also called Aran or medium weight, is the workhorse of the yarn world. It's thick enough to work up reasonably fast while still showing off stitch patterns. Most patterns are written for worsted weight, and nearly every yarn brand offers extensive worsted options.

Worsted Weight Specifications

Gauge: 16-20 stitches per 4 inches | Needle Size: US 7-9 (4.5-5.5mm) | Wraps per inch: 9-12

Best For

  • Sweaters and cardigans
  • Blankets and afghans
  • Hats and scarves
  • Beginners learning to knit
  • Most crochet projects

Considerations

  • Can be warm/heavy for garments
  • Less delicate than finer weights
  • Colorwork can get bulky
  • Not ideal for intricate lace

Our Top Worsted Weight Picks

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Budget Favorites

Caron

Simply Soft

100% Acrylic

One of the softest acrylics available. Machine washable with beautiful drape. Perfect for blankets.

Red Heart

Super Saver

100% Acrylic

The classic budget yarn. Large skeins, tons of colors. Softens with washing.

Lion Brand

Wool-Ease

Wool/Acrylic Blend

80% acrylic, 20% wool blend. Machine washable with wool's warmth. Great value.

Mid-Range Quality

Cascade

220 Superwash

100% Superwash

220 yards of superwash wool. Hundreds of colors. The workhorse of quality yarns.

Berroco

Ultra Wool

100% Superwash

Soft, bouncy superwash wool. 219 yards per skein. Excellent stitch definition.

Malabrigo

Rios

100% Merino

Hand-dyed superwash merino. Stunning colorways. A favorite for special sweaters.

Premium Options

Brooklyn Tweed

Shelter

100% US Wool

American Targhee-Columbia wool. Rustic, woolen-spun. Blooms beautifully.

Quince & Co

Lark

100% American Wool

Round, lofty American wool. Beautiful stitch definition. Designed for heirloom pieces.

Madelinetosh

Tosh Vintage

100% Merino

Hand-dyed superwash merino. Stunning tonal colors. Soft with excellent stitch definition.

Why Worsted is Great for Beginners

Easy to See Stitches

The medium thickness makes it easy to identify stitches and catch mistakes early. Choose a light, solid color for your first projects.

Reasonable Project Speed

Worsted weight works up faster than finer yarns while still creating detailed fabric. You'll see progress quickly without rushing.