Buying yarn online can be a bit of a challenge, especially when you don't have the opportunity to touch and try the yarn first. But with a little attention, it can also be incredibly fun! Here are some tips that have helped me when choosing yarn in online stores:
Seek inspiration
When you have a pattern you want to knit, it's easy to just use the yarn that's listed in the pattern. But sometimes you want to try something different – it's great to check out what others have used in a particular pattern, for example on Ravelry . There you can get an incredible number of ideas for other yarns and variations that can make your garment truly unique.
Think about sensitive skin
Don't forget to check how the yarn suits the skin of the person who will wear the garment – although I love Icelandic wool, it is not for everyone. Some yarns, such as mohair, are not suitable for babies in most cases as they can come loose and end up in their mouths. Choosing the right yarn is important for the person who will wear the garment. Not everyone wants acrylic yarn and the like.
Knit a knitting test
If you are using a different yarn than the pattern says, it is a great idea to knit a small test stitch first. It will show you if the size is right or if you need to increase or decrease the needles. I have to admit that I am sometimes bad at this, but it saves an incredible amount of headaches later.
Enjoy the experience
Online stores open doors to yarn manufacturers big and small from all over the world. Exploring new colors, textures, and materials, even if you can't touch the yarn right away, is a big part of the fun. Choosing yarn for your project is like choosing the colors for a small piece of art – it's part of the experience.
What tips or experiences do you have to share when it comes to buying yarn online?