Expert: Marla - 1/5/2011

Question
afghan. finished size  48 1/2 X 68". Worsted weight yarn. 46 ounces (1310 grams, 2600 yards)How do I configure number of skeins?

Answer
Hi Peg!
Thanks for asking. What I would do is find the yarn I want to use. I then note how many ounces are in the skein, since different brands come in different amounts. Then divide the 46 ounces by the number of ounces in each skein I want to use. When I buy yarn in cases like yours, I usually buy a couple of extra skeins, since my gauge may be looser.  And some yarns may be thicker than others even if both say it is, for example “4-ply”. When I crochet afghans, I usually don't check the gauge, but it may be a good idea to do this so you can figure if you are on the same gauge as the instructions. This can be a factor in the amount you use. If you decide to buy extra yarn, first ask the sales clerk if you can return unused skeins. I think most stores will comply. Frankly, I’ve never asked a clerk this, because I figured I would always use the extra  eventually, and usually do.
I know you didn’t ask for this, and you probably are already aware of this, but I will tell you just in case. Make sure your all your yarn has the same dye lot of each color. The dye lots are printed on the label. I have found that even the “no dye lot” types of yarn sometimes do have a slight variance in color, so even with those, make sure the dye lot is the same.

I hope this helps! Good luck on you afghan! Please let me know if you need anything else!

Marla