You've found a crochet pattern that you just love - but the yarn specified is discontinued, sold out, or maybe not within your desired budget. There can be many reasons for wanting to use an alternative to the yarn the pattern suggests, but it can quickly feel like a bit of a jungle to find a good alternative.
Here are my top five tips on how to choose a yarn alternative that works ♡
1. First look at the mileage
The first thing you should compare is the running length - that is, how many meters of yarn are in one skein (typically per 50 grams). Two skeins can weigh the same, but have very different amounts of yarn in them. The running length is therefore a really good guideline to start with - but it rarely stands alone!
2. Pay attention to the material
Different materials have different weights and textures. You can easily find two yarns with the same running length that still don't have the same thickness. For example, bamboo is heavy and smooth, while mohair is light and airy - and the two give very different results. So look at the yarn content and consider what this might mean for the thickness of the yarn.
3. Think about texture and fall
Fibers behave differently. Cotton is firm and holds its shape, while alpaca has a heavier drape and a more vibrant structure. In addition, the way the yarn is spun also plays a role - for example, classic spun yarn will give a completely different look than airy blow yarn. You can often choose an alternative with a different texture - but be aware that this can change both the fit and look of the finished project.
4. Use the knitting tension as a guide
Even though you may primarily crochet, since you are reading this page, it can be useful to look at the knitting tension listed on the label. Many yarns do not have a crochet tension listed at all. However, the knitting tension gives an idea of the thickness and properties of the yarn - and it can help you assess whether two yarns are similar enough to be interchangeable.
5. Always make a crochet sample!
The most important and most accurate advice of all: make a crochet test! Yes, I know it can seem boring and redundant when you just want to get started - but this is where you find out whether the yarn can actually be used for the pattern. Without a test, you risk ending up with a project with completely wrong proportions - and then many hours of work may be wasted. It's better to spend 30 minutes on a crochet test than to have to start all over again later.
A concrete example
In the picture above you see two yarns with the same running length - but as you probably also notice, they are very different! The yarn on the left, Kos from Sandnes , consists of baby alpaca, wool and nylon, while the yarn on the right, Classic Silk from Lang Yarns , is made of silk and merino wool. In addition to the big difference in the fiber content of the yarns, they are also spun in completely different ways, which has a great impact on the structure and expression.
So even though both yarns run 150 meters per 50 grams, they will give very different results in your crochet or knitting work, and they will not be able to replace each other.
Final tip
As the example above showed, it is rarely accurate to simply compare the running length of two yarns when you want to find a yarn alternative for a pattern. Remember to also check the yarn content and use the knitting tension as a guide. The only way to know for sure is to make a crochet test. Always use all five tips in combination - then you are well on your way to finding the perfect yarn alternative for your next project ♡