How Many Skeins Of Yarn Do You Need for A Throw Blanket?

Have you ever started a crochet or knitting project, only to realize halfway through that you don’t have enough yarn? It’s a frustrating situation to be in, especially when you’re working on a project as cozy as a throw blanket.

Creating a warm and inviting throw blanket through the art of crochet usually calls for approximately 10 to 15 skeins of yarn, which roughly translates to a total of 1,500 to 2,500 yards of yarn. However, the exact amount of skeins needed is dependent on your desired dimensions of the throw.

But fear not, dear reader, because today I’m going to answer the age-old question: how many skeins of yarn are needed for a throw blanket? Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, this information is crucial for ensuring that your project turns out just right.

Skeins of Yarn: What Are They?

When you buy yarn skeins from a store, the most important thing to consider is the weight of the yarn. The label on the yarn has important information like its weight. Yarn skeins come in different sizes, but the standard size is 100 grams. 

Figuring out how much yarn is in a skein can be challenging because it depends on the yarn’s thickness and what it’s made of. To avoid confusion, you should look at the label on the yarn to find out what it’s made of. A typical 100-gram skein has around 460 to 480 yards of yarn. But, if you buy a thicker or more expensive skein, it may have less yarn, usually between 240 to 300 yards.

Factors to Consider when Determining the Number of Skeins Needed

1. Yarn weight and type:

The weight and type of yarn you use will affect the overall amount of yarn needed for your project. A thicker, bulkier yarn will require fewer skeins to complete a project than a thinner, lightweight yarn. Similarly, different types of yarn fibers may require more or less yardage due to their varying texture and elasticity.

2. Size of blanket:

The size of your blanket will have a direct impact on the number of skeins needed. A larger blanket will naturally require more yarn than a small one. Be sure to take accurate measurements of your project and refer to a pattern or calculate the yardage based on the stitch count and size.

3. Stitch pattern:

Different stitch patterns require varying amounts of yarn. Some patterns, such as cables and colorwork, require more yarn due to the increased tension and bulk created by the stitches. Be mindful of the stitch pattern you choose and how it may influence the amount of yarn needed for your project.

4. Tension/gauge:

Your tension and gauge can also affect the amount of yarn needed. If your stitches are looser than the recommended gauge, you may require more yarn to achieve the desired size. Additionally, if your tension is tighter than recommended, the amount of yarn needed may be less.

5. Color changes:

If you plan to incorporate multiple colors into your project, the number of skeins needed will depend on the frequency of color changes and the desired size of each section. Plan ahead for your color changes and be sure to purchase enough yarn to complete your design.

Yarn Quantities for Different Throw Blanket Sizes

Small throw blanket (30×50 inches):

For this size of a throw blanket, you would need approximately 3-4 skeins or balls of yarn. The exact quantity of yarn will depend on the thickness of the yarn you choose and the stitch pattern you use. For a smaller size like this, you could opt for a single-color yarn or consider a mix of two colors, depending on the look you’re going for.

Medium throw blanket (40×60 inches):

For a medium-sized throw blanket, you will need more yarn than for a small one. You will require approximately 6-7 skeins or balls of yarn. Once again, the exact quantity will depend on the thickness of the yarn and how tightly or loosely you knit or crochet. For a medium-sized throw blanket, you could also consider using a chunkier yarn, which can lead to a faster and cozier project.

Large throw blanket (50×70 inches):

A large throw blanket will require even more yarn than a medium-sized one. You will need approximately 8-10 skeins or balls of yarn for a blanket this size. You will want to choose a thicker yarn for this size blanket as it will feel more substantial and provide more warmth. With a larger throw, you may also want to experiment with different color changes or subtle gradient effects.

How Many Skeins of Yarn for a Throw Blanket?

Throw blankets are versatile and can be used in many ways around the home. Although they are smaller than other types of blankets, they can be used for a variety of purposes, making them a necessary item in any household. You can use them to keep your baby warm in their stroller or as a decorative piece in your living room. 

To crochet a throw blanket, you need to determine how many skeins of yarn are required. The number of skeins depends on the size and thickness of the blanket. Usually, throw blankets need 10 to 15 skeins of yarn, but it varies based on the size and thickness of the yarn. A smaller throw blanket may need five skeins or less, while a larger one may need at least 20 skeins or more. 

It’s important to know the size and thickness of the blanket to calculate the number of skeins you need. With the right amount of yarn, you can confidently start your crochet project and complete it.

Related: How Many Yards Of Fabric To Make A Blanket?

How to Calculate Yarn Skeins Required For A Throw Blanket?

The price of yarn skeins can range from as low as $2 to as high as $50, depending on the type of yarn and its thickness. For those who are considering purchasing premium yarns, it’s essential to calculate the required number of skeins with great care.

If you’re new to needleworking and want to ensure that you purchase the right amount of yarn for your project, the easiest way to do so is by creating a swatch. A swatch is a small sample of the fabric that represents the larger project you plan to undertake. Typically, swatches are about 4 × 4 inches in size, but if you prefer, you can make them larger. 

• You can indicate the size of the swatch in inches, such as 5 × 5 inches, and note its corresponding weight in grams, such as 15 grams
• It’s important to check the banderole, which contains valuable information such as the yardage and weight of the skein.
• You’ll need to divide the yardage of the skein by its weight in grams. For example, if a skein contains 460 yards and weighs 100 grams, the calculation would be 460 divided by 100, which equals 4.6 yards per gram.
• To do this, multiply the weight of the swatch in grams by the skein’s yards per gram value. For instance, if your swatch weighs 15 grams, and the skein has yards per gram value of 4.6, the calculation would be 15 multiplied by 4.6, which equals 69 yards. 
• Using a 50 x 60-inch blanket, 120 swatches are required to make the throw blanket. Using a 50 x 60-inch blanket, 120 swatches are required to make the throw blanket.
• If you need 120 swatches to complete the throw blanket, and each swatch requires 69 yards of yarn, the total yardage needed is 8,280.
• To determine the number of skeins needed for the throw blanket project, divide the total yardage required by the yardage per skein. For example, if you need a total of 8,280 yards of yarn for your project, and each skein contains 460 yards of yarn, then you’ll need approximately 18 skeins of yarn to complete the throw blanket project.

When purchasing yarn for your project, it’s always best to add a little extra just to be on the safe side. A good rule of thumb is to add 10% to the total number of skeins required for your project. Using the above example, if you need 18 skeins of yarn to complete the throw blanket project, you should consider purchasing at least 20 skeins (18 + 2 skeins). 

Tips on Yarn Selection

1. Choosing the right yarn for the project:

Before selecting yarn for your project, consider the pattern, the type of project you are working on, and the recipient of the finished product. Some yarns are best for specific types of projects while others work better for others. For example, wool or acrylic yarns are warm and best for winter accessories or garments, while cotton and linen yarns are suitable for summer tops and home décor pieces. The weight and texture of the yarn also play a significant role. Thicker, bulky yarns work well for blankets and outerwear, while finer, lightweight yarns are suitable for delicate projects such as lacy shawls, baby garments, and socks.

2. Comparing yarn brands and qualities:

Yarn brands and qualities vary significantly in terms of quality, fiber content, weight, texture, and price. It’s essential to compare yarn brands and qualities before making a purchase. Read the labels carefully to understand the yarn’s care requirements, gauge, weight, and fiber content. Look for yarns made from natural fibers such as wool, cotton, silk, alpaca, and cashmere for durability, softness, and warmth. Consider the color options as well, as some yarn brands have a wide range of colors while others offer limited shades.

3. How to substitute yarn if needed:

Sometimes, you may not find the exact yarn recommended in the pattern. In such cases, it’s crucial to substitute the yarn while maintaining the same weight, fiber content, and gauge. It’s advisable to consult the pattern’s gauge and choose a yarn that has a similar weight, yardage, and fiber content. Using a different yarn can affect the look, fit, and drape of the finished project. Always make a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure that the new yarn creates the same gauge as the original yarn.

FAQs