Yarn
Choosing the perfect yarn is one of the most exciting, and sometimes most challenging, parts of any fiber arts project.
Thankfully, the Craft Yarn Council has brought much-needed consistency to the process. Through collaboration with publishers, fiber producers, and needle, hook, and yarn manufacturers, the Council established a series of guidelines and standards for crochet and knitting across yarns, tools, and patterns.
Yarns are available in a wide range of weights, from superfine to jumbo, and in a variety of materials. Options include synthetic fibers like acrylic, natural fibers such as cotton and wool, and popular blends that combine the strengths of both.
Lion Brands Yarn (n.d.)
Yarn Pt. II
Lion Brand Yarns is also a great resource for educating yourself on yarn types, uses, and weights. The website also offers tips on reading labels, how much yarn you will need for a project, pattern abbreviations, stitchfinder tool, and a library of videos.
Yarns come in a wide range of weights, from delicate superfine threads
ideal for lacework and socks to thick jumbo yarns perfect for cozy blankets and chunky scarves. Each weight serves different purposes, with lighter yarns favored for detailed, lightweight garments and heavier yarns used for warmth and texture.
Materials also vary widely. Synthetic fibers like acrylic are affordable, machine-washable, and ideal for beginners or everyday projects. Natural fibers such as cotton are breathable and soft, great for summer garments and baby items, while wool offers warmth, elasticity, and is a favorite for sweaters and winter accessories.
Blended yarns combine the best of both worlds: for example, a wool-acrylic blend might provide warmth and structure while being easier to care for than pure wool. Preferences often come down to the project’s purpose. Crafters might choose cotton for dishcloths, merino wool for soft garments, or bulky acrylic for quick home decor items.
Photo: Patton, 2025
Needles and Hooks
Crochet hooks are made in a variety of materials including wood/bamboo, plastic, and various metals.
Photo: Patton, 2025
Similarly, knitting needles are also available in a wide range of sizes, materials, and lengths.
Photo: Patton, 2025
Further reading: The Crafty Yarn Council offers a helpful guide on hooks and needles.
Crafting on a Budget
Buying supplies for knitting and crochet doesn’t have to be expensive and can be surprisingly affordable and sustainable. Many essential items like yarn, hooks, needles, and even pattern books can be found secondhand at thrift stores, yard sales, or community marketplaces. These are great places to discover unique materials at a fraction of the retail price, often donated by other crafters who are simply clearing out their stash.
Public libraries also offer craft supply swaps, fiber arts kits, and lend supplies as part of their “library of things.” Facebook Marketplace or Buy Nothing groups are also places where people frequently give away yarn and craft supplies for free.
By embracing secondhand and community-based options, knitting and crocheting become more than just hobbies, they become acts of sustainability and inclusion. Making fiber arts more accessible helps build a welcoming, creative community where everyone, regardless of income or background, can participate, create, and share.
Photo: Patton, 2025
For online shopping, ShopGoodwill.com is a really fun and interesting place to discover vintage, gently used, or brand new supplies. Items on this site are often sold in bulk and because of the nature of donated items, are truly a mixed bag. This site offers the chance to find unique supplies such as Japanese yarns, vintage natural fiber yarns, vintage hooks and needles, half-completed projects and often sold in bulk. Searches are best kept simple as the people who are listing the items likely aren't experts in fiber-arts. The filters can be useful but I often find they can weaken a search.