Yarn Substitution Calculator by Yardage
Substituting a different yarn in a pattern? Work out how many skeins of the new yarn you need by matching total yardage, not the number of balls.
How to substitute yarn by yardage
- Enter the number of skeins the pattern calls for and their yards per skein.
- Enter the yards per skein of your substitute yarn.
- Read the total yards needed and substitute skeins, then copy the result.
Examples
5 skeins of 220 yards swapped for 364 yard skeins
5 skeins x 220 yds, substitute 364 yds per skein
1100 yards needed, 4 substitute skeins
Frequently asked questions
How do I substitute one yarn for another?
Match total yardage, not the number of balls. Multiply the pattern skeins by their yards per skein, then divide by the substitute's yards per skein and round up to whole skeins.
Why compare yardage instead of weight?
Different fibers weigh different amounts for the same length, so two 50 gram balls can hold very different yardage. Yardage is what determines whether you have enough to finish.
Does this check gauge and yarn weight?
No. It only matches yardage. Pick a substitute in the same weight class and knit a gauge swatch so the fabric and finished size still match the pattern.
Should I buy an extra skein?
Often yes. Buy one spare from the same dye lot for swatching, fixes and edging. Leftover yarn is far easier to deal with than running short mid-project.
What if I only know meters per ball?
Convert first. One yard is about 0.9144 meters, so divide meters by 0.9144 to get yards, then enter the yardage figures for both yarns.
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