When I first started crocheting, I had no idea how much the type of yarn you work with mattered. Now that I’m feeling inspired by this hobby, I have been checking out the yarn at Walmart and Micheal’s when I go out. Naturally, I gravitate to the pretty colored yarns, completely ignoring what they are made of. I decided to look into it more and I came across this article from The Spruce Crafts, and it turns out there’s a big difference in yarn types! I learned that cotton yarn is a sturdy yet breathable fiber, so it’s perfect for projects like tote bags, dishcloths, and summer clothing. While acrylic is the best for beginners since it’s affordable and stretchy, making it easy to work with. And wool? It’s super warm and easy to unravel when you make mistakes.
After learning about different yarn types, I realized that cotton yarn was the perfect choice for my Shrek bucket hat! Since cotton holds its shape well and isn’t too stretchy, I knew it would help the hat keep a structured look instead of becoming floppy over time. Plus, cotton is breathable, which is a big win for a hat I actually want to wear outside in the summer. I almost went with acrylic just because it’s what I’ve been practicing with (see my first bucket hat attempt on the left). Yet, after reading about how acrylic yarn can sometimes feel too warm or plasticky, I decided to stick with cotton for a comfy, durable finish. So, I picked up this yarn from Michael’s, I think the color is pretty spot-on! Now, I just have to make sure my Shrek ears come out looking right…
Now I’m curious! For my fellow crocheters—do you have a favorite yarn to crochet with? Do you have a favorite brand or store recommendations on where to buy yarn? I’m still experimenting, but I’d love to hear what works best for you! Drop a comment and let’s talk yarn.
4 Comments
Carys Moffatt
That acrylic hat is so cute! And the colour you choses for your Shrek ears is perfect! I love how much process you’ve made; you’re doing a phenomenal job!
Nadia Ermel
Your hat is so cute. I always have a difficult time deciding what yarn to use because it sometimes confuses me.
Breanna Glover
I love how you explored different yarn types and how they affect your projects. Cotton sounds like the perfect choice for your Shrek bucket hat! My sister is a big crocheter, I’ve heard great things about Michaels’ yarn selection. Can’t wait to see how your hat turns out!
Amber Landels
I was in the same position as you, until I started knitting I didn’t realize yarn types would matter that much! I found the yarn isle to be very overwhelming at first, but then once I started to learn more about different yarn types, I felt more knowledgeable in my decisions and less overwhelmed. Thus far I have only knitted with acrylic yarn but I am interested in trying different types as I progress in my journey! Unfortunately, living in a smaller city my only real option is to go to Wal-Mart for yarn, but I look forward to checking out Michael’s when I go to Regina next! I enjoy reading your posts and I like how you engage your readers! Excited to see the Shrek bucket hat progress!