How to substitute yarn
Practical guidance: how to substitute yarn.
Key principles
- Compare length per 100 g, not only the weight of a skein.
- Check fibre, elasticity, twist and washing requirements.
- Make a new swatch before starting the full project.
Step-by-step process
- Record yarn, tool and project parameters.
- Make a small test and measure it without stretching.
- Compare the result with the target and change only one parameter at a time.
- Record the decision in the project journal so it can be reproduced.
Common mistakes
The most common mistake is treating label or pattern data as a guarantee. Technique, fibre, stitch and washing can change the result.