Buying wool: practical advice for choosing the right one

Whether you're just starting out or have been knitting for a lifetime, buying yarn is a crucial step in making your project a success. Between materials, thicknesses, colors, and budgets, it can be difficult to navigate. Here's a guide to buying the right yarn, in-store or online.

Choosing the right material for your project

The choice of yarn depends primarily on the project you're planning. For socks or warm clothing, merino wool or virgin wool are safe bets. For a fluffy sweater or a soft scarf, opt for alpaca or cashmere. In summer, plant-based materials like cotton or linen are more suitable.

Fiber blends also combine comfort, warmth, and ease of care. Be sure to check labels for exact composition.

Which formats should you choose: ball, skein or cone?

Most yarns are sold in balls , which are easy to handle and store. Skeins are often used for hand-dyed yarns and require winding before use. Cones, reserved for certain types of yarn, are rarer but ideal for large projects or machine knitting.

Each format has its advantages: choose it according to your level and your equipment.

Buying wool online: a good idea?

Buying wool online is very common these days. Specialist shops like Torsades offer a curated selection of quality brands, such as Lang Yarns , with detailed descriptions and helpful tips. This makes it easy to compare yarns, prices, and find rare or unique colors.

If in doubt, do not hesitate to order a sample or contact the store for personalized advice.

How to estimate the amount of wool needed?

Before you start buying yarn , it's important to calculate how much you'll need. This depends on the type of yarn, the size of the pattern, and the stitch used. A simple jersey pattern will use less than a cable or jacquard project.

Knitting patterns usually indicate the required yardage, but it's best to bring an extra ball to avoid unpleasant surprises along the way.

Budget and quality: finding the right balance

There are yarns for every budget. Entry-level yarns are good for experimenting or simple projects. For a more refined look and longer-lasting results, choose premium or natural yarns , such as those offered in the cashmere or merino collections.

A good yarn, well chosen, can transform the knitting experience. It's better to invest in a beautiful material than to regret a disappointing result.