wowslider.com
 
All

Get Free Patterns Grab 2 free custom machine knitting patterns


Close-up comparison of three machine knitting yarns showing different ply counts: 2/8, 3/8, and 2/24, demonstrating varying yarn thicknesses

2/8, 3/8, 2/24 | Yarn weights for machine knitting

Yarn on cones is often referred to by the yarn count (3/8, 10/2 etc). By using a traditional Fixed Weight system, knitters and weavers can refer to yarns in a stadardized way.

yarn yarn counts

Follow Knit it Now on Follow

The Fixed Weight System

Yarn on cones is often referred to by the yarn count (3/8, 10/2 etc). By using a traditional Fixed Weight system, knitters and weavers can refer to yarns in a stadardized way.

Using this system, the thicker the yarn, the lower the count.

For wool, the count is the second number. The number of plies (or folds) is the first number (we will discuss this later).

This example shows multiple plies of an 8 count wool. Over the years, a number of systems have been developed in the textile industry. Machine knitters and weavers who use yarn on cones employ the Fixed Weight System.

Fixed Weight System
  • The length is variable and the weight is constant
  • The thicker the yarn, the lower the count

In this example,
2/8 is thinnest and 4/8 is the thickest

2/8 | 2 plies of 8 count
3/ 8 | 3 plies of 8 count
4/88 | 4 plies of 8 count

Looking for yarn on cones?


Visit the Knit it Now Store

A pound of wool, spun ONE time sets the basis for this system

Let's look at worsted wool. Different fibers use different numbers.

Worsted wool is wool that is carded and combed so all the fibers are parallel. This is not the same as "worsted weight" yarn.



It isn't often that spinners and weavers work with wool that has only been spun one time. When the wool is spun a second (and subsequent times) it is thinner and longer each time.




Using this method, knitters can compare "apples to apples" no matter what the source of the wool (or the blend of fibers)

About plies

Knitters rarely use a single ply of yarn. In the textile arts, spinning is done by taking 2 or more strands that each have a twist to them and putting them together. The strands are twisted together in the opposite direction of the originally spun single ply.

In addition, by using multiply plies, manufacturers can create the wonderful yarns that we love.

Multiple colors and multiple fibers can be spun together. various techniques can be applied. An example is boucle yarns where one strand is held loosely and allowed to make loops on the other yarn while plying.

Although the number of plies is interesting, the weight of the singles that make up the yarn is what determines the weight of the yarn.

2/24 = 2 plies of 24 weight singles (spun 24 times)
2/18 = 2 plies of 18 weight singles
4/8 = 4 plies of 8 weight singles

"I only use 4 ply yarn"

Have you ever heard a knitter say . . . "I only use 4 ply yarn"?

What does that mean? 4 plies ARE NOT EQUAL!

Both of the yarns on the right have 4 plies. The needle on the left is from a standard gauge machine and the needle on the right is from a mid gauge machine.

It's obvious that the blue yarn would not knit well on the standard machine (the hooks would catch and split the yarn).

The grey yarn on the mid gauge would be very open and loose (a design feature?)

By understanding Yarn Counts for machine knitting, you can more easily substitute yarns in patterns and estimate your yarn needs.

NOTE:
The "Yarn types" terms are different in different parts of the world. What terms do you use? Please comment below

Symbol Category Yarn Types Yards Per Pound 4" (10cm) Machine / Pitch
Lace Lace
Fingering
2-ply
10-count crochet thread		 4000 - 10,000 ypp 33-40 sts Standard 4.5mm (stranded)
Super fine Sock
Fingering
Baby
3-ply		 3000-4000 ypp 27-32 sts Standard 4.5mm (stranded)
Fine Sport
Baby
4-ply		 2000-3000 ypp 23-26 sts Standard 4.5mm / Double Bed
Light DK
Light worsted		 1000-2000 ypp 21-24 sts Mid-Gauge 6.0 |6.5| 7mm/Standard 4.5mm
Medium Worsted
Afghan
Aran		 800-1000 ypp 16-20 sts Mid-Gauge 6.0 |6.5| 7mm /Bulky 9mm
Bulky Chunky
Craft
Rug		 500-800 ypp 12-15 sts Bulky 9mm
Super Bulky Super bulky
Roving		 100-500 ypp 6-11 sts May not be appropriate.
When working with coned yarn, many knitters are confused by the numbering system. Yarn on cones is often referred to by the yarn count (3/8, 10/2 etc). By using this traditional Fixed Weight system, knitters and weavers can refer to yarns in a standardized way.

Yarn Counts - What do Those Numbers Mean?


FAQ's

What does yarn weight mean in machine knitting?

Yarn weight refers to the thickness of the yarn strand. It affects how the yarn knits on your machine, the drape of the fabric, and the size of the finished project.

Can I use hand knitting yarns on a knitting machine?

Yes, many hand knitting yarns can be used, but you need to match the yarn weight to the machine gauge. Thicker yarns may not feed smoothly on fine-gauge machines.

How do I know which yarn weight works with my machine?

Check your machine’s recommended yarn range. A quick swatch helps confirm if the yarn will knit evenly without dropped stitches or excess strain.

Why is swatching important with yarn weights?

Swatching shows how a yarn behaves on your machine. Even the same yarn weight can knit differently depending on fiber content and tension.

What happens if I choose the wrong yarn weight?

Using a yarn that’s too heavy or too light may cause uneven stitches, fabric distortion, or even damage to your machine. Always test before knitting a full project.
Have you struggled to match yarn weights with your machine?
Share your experience or questions in the comments — your insight could help another knitter avoid frustration!
Have you struggled to match yarn weights with your machine?
Share your experience or questions in the comments — your insight could help another knitter avoid frustration!
Login You must be logged in to add your comments
1 COMMENT
Cyril R
 Mar 19, 2024
I like it sheds more light on what it all means. :)

All