I want to knit a sweater this year, but I'm lost when it comes to choosing yarn. I used to just grab whatever at the store, but now I realize that not all types of yarn work for a sweater. What density and composition work best?
Actually, it doesn't really matter which exact density you go for - it all depends on what kind of sweater you're picturing :) If you want something thick and warm for winter, look for thicker yarn, around 200-400 meters per 100 grams. Thin yarn like 600+ meters will take forever to knit, and the finished piece won't be very warm. Composition - that's where you really need to pay attention. Acrylic alone holds its shape well, but it doesn't breathe and can pill. Wool is warm, but it can be scratchy if you don't get lucky with the quality right away. I personally prefer a blend - like polyacrylic mixed with wool or wool with acrylic 50/50. It keeps you warm, doesn't irritate your skin, and lasts longer.
If you're a total beginner at knitting - go for acrylic or polyester, they're easier to work with, don't slip through your hands, and mistakes are less noticeable. If you're more experienced, you can take a chance on cashmere or merino - they need more attention, but you'll get an amazing sweater :) Before you buy, feel the yarn with your hands, check if it's scratchy. And look at the label - it should have info about yardage and weight so you can figure out how many skeins you need for the whole thing. Good luck with your knitting!
For a winter sweater, I'd recommend paying attention first and foremost to the composition rather than just the density. After 24 years of working with animals, I see how different materials behave in real conditions - and it's pretty much the same with yarn. Merino wool or cashmere retain warmth even when damp, acrylic quickly loses its shape after washing, and pure wool can be scratchy. It's best to go for a blend: around 50-70% wool plus acrylic or mohair for softness. Density matters, but it's easier to adjust to a specific style - for a fitted sweater, thinner yarn works (250-400 meters per 100 grams), for an oversized fit you can go thicker.
Here's a practical tip I use myself: before buying the rest of the yarn, definitely knit a test swatch (at least 10 by 10 centimeters) with the needles you're planning to use, wash it in hot water and dry it. You'll see how the yarn behaves after washing - whether it's felted, lost color, or deformed. A lot of people skip this step and then end up disappointed with the finished sweater.
One more thing: what style are you picturing? Fitted or loose? And do you have color preferences - that might affect which manufacturer you choose?
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