Seam & Stitch

How much yarn for a pair of socks?

Typical yardage for a pair of socks in an average size. Bigger sizes, textured stitches and crochet need the top of the range or more.

Yarn weightYardsMetres
1 Super fine (fingering, sock)350–500320–457
2 Fine (sport)300–450274–411
3 Light (DK)275–400251–366
4 Medium (worsted, aran)275–375251–343
5 Bulky (chunky)250–350229–320
6 Super bulky200–250183–229
7 Jumbo175–200160–183

To turn yardage into skeins, divide by the length on the label and round up. The yarn calculator does this for you and can also estimate from a swatch of your own stitch pattern.

Source: Lion Brand – how much yarn do I need. Metres converted at 1 yd = 0.9144 m.

Frequently asked questions

How much worsted yarn for a pair of socks?

About 275–375 yards (251–343 m) of medium weight (4, worsted) yarn for an average size.

How much chunky yarn for a pair of socks?

About 250–350 yards (229–320 m) of bulky weight (5, chunky) yarn for an average size.

Does crochet need more yarn?

Usually 25 to 30 percent more than knitting the same size, so aim for the top of the range or add a margin.

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