lace weight yarn at Wabi Sabi, Ottawa's Local Yarn Store

lace yarn quick facts

what gauge is typical for lace weight yarn?

Typically 32–40 stitches per 10 cm (4 in) for lace weight yarn. Some patterns knit lace weight yarn at a much lower gauge for light, airy fabrics.

what size needles should I use?

Needles between 1.5–3.5 mm are most commonly used. Use the higher end of this range if you want an open, airy fabric, and the smaller end if you want a denser, more structured fabric.

what is this yarn used for?

Lace weight yarn is widely used for projects that benefit from delicate stitch patterns and lightweight fabrics. Many knitters choose this yarn weight for lace shawls, fine scarves, lightweight garments, and heirloom knitting. Because it is an extremely fine yarn, projects made with lace yarn typically take longer to complete than those made with heavier yarn weights.

is lace yarn the same as cobweb yarn?

Cobweb yarn is an extremely fine form of lace weight yarn, often used for very delicate lace knitting. Not all lace yarns are cobweb weight, however, and patterns will usually specify the intended gauge.

how does this compare to other yarn weights?

Lace weight yarn is the finest commonly used yarn weight and sits below fingering weight yarn in thickness.

what other names are used for lace yarn?

Lace yarn is sometimes referred to as cobweb yarn when it is spun extremely fine. In the Craft Yarn Council system it corresponds to Category #0 (lace weight). Because yarn thickness can vary between manufacturers, checking the recommended gauge is the most reliable way to compare yarns.