How Much Yarn Do I Need? Yardage Chart for Every Crochet Project
Yardage estimates for hats, scarves, blankets of every size, sweaters, bags and amigurumi — plus a simple swatch method to calculate exactly how much yarn your project needs.
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Running out of yarn two rows from the end is a crochet rite of passage — and running out of a discontinued dye lot is worse. Use the chart below for quick estimates, then the swatch method for exact numbers.
All estimates are for worsted (#4) yarn in single, half double or double crochet. Crochet uses roughly a third more yarn than knitting for the same area.
The rest of this post is just below — free, as always.
Crochet yardage chart (worsted weight)
| Project | Size | Approximate yardage |
|---|---|---|
| Small amigurumi | 3–5 in | 40–100 yd |
| Dishcloth (cotton) | 8 × 8 in | 50–70 yd |
| Ear warmer | Adult | 70–100 yd |
| Beanie | Adult | 150–220 yd |
| Baby hat | 0–12 months | 60–100 yd |
| Cowl | Adult | 150–250 yd |
| Scarf | 6 × 60 in | 350–500 yd |
| Tote bag | 14 × 14 in | 300–450 yd |
| Crop top (DK) | S–M | 400–500 yd |
| Sweater | Adult S–2XL | 1,000–1,800 yd |
| Baby blanket | 30 × 36 in | 900–1,200 yd |
| Throw | 50 × 60 in | 2,000–2,600 yd |
| Twin blanket | 66 × 90 in | 4,000–4,800 yd |
| Queen blanket | 90 × 90 in | 5,500–6,500 yd |
Textured stitches use more yarn: add about 30% for waffle, bobble or puff stitches, and 10–15% for granny squares (all those ends!).
The exact method: weigh a swatch
- Crochet a swatch at least 6 × 6 in in your project's yarn, hook and stitch.
- Measure its area in square inches (6 × 6 = 36).
- Weigh it in grams on a kitchen scale (say, 12 g).
- Work out grams per square inch: 12 ÷ 36 = 0.33 g.
- Multiply by your project's area: a 50 × 60 in throw = 3,000 sq in × 0.33 = 1,000 g.
- Divide by the weight of one ball (e.g. 100 g) and add 10%: about 11 balls.
Tips
- Buy one extra ball from the same dye lot. Most shops accept unopened returns.
- Compare by yardage, not weight: 100 g of cotton is much shorter than 100 g of acrylic.
- Blanket sizes: see our blanket size chart.
- Thicker yarn? Bulky blankets use fewer yards but more weight — see yarn weights.
Common questions
How much yarn do I need for a crochet blanket?
For a 50 × 60 in throw in worsted, about 2,000–2,600 yards. A baby blanket needs about 900–1,200 yards.
How many skeins do I need for a beanie?
Usually one skein of worsted (around 200 yards) is enough for an adult beanie.
Does crochet use more yarn than knitting?
Yes — roughly 25–33% more for the same area, because crochet stitches are thicker and more three-dimensional.
Bookmark this page for your next yarn haul. 🛒
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