What is lace-weight yarn?

Yarns are spun with a different number of strands. Lace-weight yarn is one of the thinnest yarn types available on the market. It is used primarily for crocheting lace and other products where you use fine and thin strands (e.g. shawls or scarves with intricate motifs).

How do I identify lace-weight yarn?

There are many types of yarn to choose from, and they are all suitable for different projects and purposes. Your pattern does not always state which yarn you should use.

It therefore helps to know the different categories that the yarn skeins are divided into. Lace is a 'Category 0' yarn. You do not need to be an experienced knitter to enjoy the fine yarn material. It is fun and challenging to work with and you can make a number of lovely projects with it, such as brooches or decorative figures.

In the beginning, you may benefit from using knitting needles that are slightly thicker than what is recommended for the thin yarn. With larger needles, you can have more control over your work, and it will not ruin your knitting, it will only make it more airy.

What colours are lace weight yarn available in?

The thin yarn is available in all the colours of the rainbow. The finest versions are those made of either alpaca wool or mulberry silk. Many times, you will find that the yarn is made from a mix of different natural materials.

When choosing material for yarn, pay attention to whether it is suitable for washing. Both silk and wool can withstand machine washing at 30 degrees. Remember to dry your lace yarn items flat. Meaning, they must be laid out on a flat surface. If you hang them up, they may stretch and change their shape.