How much yarn do you need for a blanket? A complete guide to estimating yarn for every blanket size
Quick answer: for a standard 52" × 60" throw blanket, start with 2,000–2,500 yards of worsted-weight yarn (#4). DK yarn (#3) needs more yardage; bulky yarn (#5) needs less.
Creating a handmade blanket is rewarding, but estimating the right amount of yarn can feel confusing. Start with the blanket size, then use the yarn weight and your gauge swatch to fine-tune the estimate before you buy.
How much yarn do you need for a blanket?
Use this chart for a quick starting estimate. It covers the eight standard blanket sizes shown above. Yardage is shown for three of the most common yarn weights: DK (#3), worsted / medium (#4), and bulky (#5).
Recommended supplies for your project
| Blanket size | Dimensions | DK yarn (#3) | Worsted yarn (#4) | Bulky yarn (#5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lovey | 12" × 12" | 200–300 yd | 150–225 yd | 100–150 yd |
| Stroller | 30" × 35" | 950–1,150 yd | 700–850 yd | 500–650 yd |
| Receiving | 40" × 40" | 1,300–1,600 yd | 950–1,150 yd | 700–850 yd |
| Baby | 42" × 52" | 1,400–1,700 yd | 1,000–1,200 yd | 800–1,000 yd |
| Throw | 52" × 60" | 2,600–3,000 yd | 2,000–2,500 yd | 1,500–1,900 yd |
| Twin | 66" × 90" | 3,700–4,500 yd | 2,900–3,500 yd | 2,100–2,600 yd |
| Full / Queen | 90" × 90" | 5,500–6,700 yd | 4,200–5,100 yd | 3,100–3,800 yd |
| King | 108" × 108" | 7,700–9,300 yd | 5,900–7,200 yd | 4,300–5,300 yd |
These are planning estimates for a simple knit or crochet blanket. Textured stitches, cables, puff stitches, wide borders, and a tight gauge use more yarn. When color matching matters, buy one extra skein.
What changes the amount of yarn you need?
- Blanket size. The chart uses the dimensions shown in the blanket size graphic above. Even a few extra inches can noticeably change the total yardage.
- Yarn weight. DK (#3) is thinner, so it takes more yards to cover the same area. Bulky (#5) is thicker, so it takes fewer. Match your yarn weight to the pattern whenever you have one.
- Stitch pattern and gauge. Dense crochet stitches, cables, bobbles, and a wide border use more yarn than a simple stitch. Your own tension also changes the final number.
Recommended supplies for your project
How to calculate yarn for your specific blanket
The chart is the useful starting point; a pattern is the better authority. If you are designing your own blanket, make a small swatch in the chosen yarn and stitch, then weigh it or measure the yarn used. Scale that result to your finished dimensions and add extra for the border.
How many skeins of yarn do you need?
Divide the yardage in the chart by the yards in one skein. For example, a 2,000-yard worsted-weight throw needs ten 200-yard skeins. Round up, and keep the same dye lot when possible.
Watch: how to estimate yarn for a chunky blanket
For a visual guide, this tutorial shows how to estimate yarn before starting a chunky blanket project.
