Knitting & Crochet Yarn Yardage Calculator

How yarn needs are calculated

The same project takes different yardage depending on yarn weight. A worsted-weight (#4) sweater needs roughly 1,200 yards; the same sweater in fingering (#1) needs 2,000+ yards because thinner yarn covers less area per yard.

Base yardage estimates (medium size, worsted weight)

• Scarf (8" × 60"): 200-400 yards
• Hat (adult): 100-200 yards
• Socks (pair, adult): 300-450 yards
• Sweater (adult M): 1,000-1,400 yards
• Cardigan (adult M): 1,200-1,800 yards
• Blanket (50×60"): 1,500-2,200 yards
• Baby blanket (30×40"): 600-900 yards

Tips for buying yarn

• Always buy from the same dye lot. Different lots have subtle color shifts that show up across a finished piece.
• Buy 10-15% more than the calculator says for cables, colorwork, or oversized fit.
• Heavier weights work up faster but show less stitch definition. Sport and DK are the sweet spot for most garments.
• Check your gauge swatch before committing. Looser tension means more yardage; tighter means less.

Pair with our knitting needle and crochet hook reviews.