See http://www.YarnStandards.com for how the categories of yarn weights compare in terms of relative gauges and needle sizes used to achieve those gauges.
Worsted weight (Category 4 - Medium) is the yarn commonly used to knit sweaters in the U.S. U.K. knitters often use a slightly thinner yarn called "DK" (double knitting), which falls into Category 3 - Light. Worsted weight yarn is typically knit at 20 sts/4 in or 10 cm on US 7/4.5mm needles, whereas DK weight yarn is typically knit at 22 sts/4 inches or 10 cm on US 5/3.75mm needles.
Some countries still use the old 2-ply, 4-ply, 6-ply, 8-ply classification to describe yarns, where 4-ply is fingering weight, 6-ply is sport weight, 8-ply is DK, and 10-ply is worsted weight. One problem with that system of classification is that it assumes a standard ply weight. There are many yarns these days (particularly in the Bulky and Super Bulky categories 5 and 6) that are single-ply yarns which knit at various gauges on various needle sizes.
Sport weight yarns are usually thinner and lighter weight than worsted weight yarns
4ply is NOT a yarn weight. Many 4ply yarns in the US are worsted weight. DK is a lighter yarn weight.
In general, dk and worsted mean much the same thing. Dk is used in the UK and worsted in the US. However, there is a lot of variation between brands. The best idea is to check the length and weight information on the ball bands. I do find that US worsted weight patterns make up well in dk, but I always have lots left over! http://www.theknittingsite.com/knitting-conversion-tables/
Every possible kind and type of yarn that you can imagine is used in knitting.
there is no yarn fabrics yarns are only converted into fabric by knitting or weaving
There are two basic techniques for spinning wool: woolen and worsted. In woolen spinning, the fibers are oriented perpendicular to the yarn being made, while in worsted spinning the fibers are oriented parallel to the yarn being made. Woolen fibers are carded, creating a fuzzier, softer yarn. Worsted fibers are combed creating a smoother, harder yarn. Woolen yarns are generally preferred by knitters while worsted yarns are generally preferred by weavers.
DK in measurement means double knitting. It is not a common weight for US produced yarns but is associated with yarns from over seas.
Nina Shuttlewood has written: 'Stylish knitting from handspun or commercial yarns' -- subject(s): Knitting, Patterns
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youre hands!
The more expensive a ball or knitting yarn is, the better quality it is. A more expensive yarn is made of natural fibers. These yarns stand up to wear and tear a lot better than their cheaper counterparts.
Knitting is a method of making fabrics from yarns. They can be shaped as they are made. Knitting is a common method of making sweaters, hats, socks, blankets, scarves, and gloves. It is possible to make smoother fabrics with knitting than it is with crocheting.