Hi
I’ve always struggled with choosing yarn.
I’m just about to attempt to knit an Aran bed runner as a decorative accessory, as opposed to being used for warmth.
I’ve chosen a blanket pattern which allows me to halve the size of sts etc to halve the width.
The yarn recommendation is worsted weight with 6 mm needles for the blanket.
Other bed runner patterns I’ve seen with yarn suggestions seem bulky.
I appreciate I can use any yarn and needle size.
I’m struggling though Aran seems too light in weight and flexible and I feel will not have the body weight I’m thinking a decorative runner should have, but at the same time I don’t want it too bulky.
I’m also leaning towards a subtle sheen as my Daughter in Law wants the colour Navy, and feel that would look nice but don’t want scratchy metallico or that much of a sheen tbh.
Any suggestions would be much appreciated,
I’m thinking it’s my lach of experience with yarn and needle size might also be the problem.
Thank you all again in anticipation of your valuable time
Eileen
Hello
This probably isn’t much help to you but the weight of a runner (or blanket) is really going to be personal preference. I understand what you mean, you don’t want it too floppy so it’s a smart decoration with some heft to it, to lay nicely. In which case perhaps the heavier yarn, chunky, would be preferable. Just remember if you change weight of yarn you need to modify your pattern accordingly (or change pattern) or you won’t get the size you intend.
Some yarns are heavier than others due to the fibre rather than the ‘weight’ (thickness of yarn). I have noticed a DK acrylic is much lighter than a DK in cotton which has a bit more of a heft to it.
Other than that my knowledge of yarns is quite limited. I had a Drops cotton which a beautiful sheen (not sparkly, but glossy) and great colour depth and vibrancy but that was DK so no use to you unless you used double strand to work with and then it would be bulky…but could be an option to explore.
I’ve probably added to your confusion!
For a decorative bed runner, consider using worsted weight yarn for a bit more structure without bulk. A blend like Berroco Vintage or Cascade 220 Superwash Merino could work well, and they come in navy with a subtle sheen. Direct2HR
Pima cotton yarn often has a lovely sheen and some weight. It’s also very stable. I love Cascade Ultra Pima, but it only comes in DK weight. Wool & the Gang has a “Shiny Happy Cotton” that looks similar online, and KnitPicks has “Shine”, which doesn’t look quite as shiny. You could order one of each to see if you like them, before ordering enough for a runner.
Thank you all so much
I’ve given up on the bed runner having done many swatches, ( I never used to swatch until I think it was Colo Co advised the reasons why should always and yes it saves a lot of time and money on yarn and adding to my stash. Thank you
I’m now searching for yarn for a little girls cardigan which looks chunky to me but recommendations are an Australian 8 ply yarn.
Think I will look at Pima Cotton for that
Not sure if pic will open
I’ll find a link
Thank you all I’m indebted to your kindness
The sweater does look chunky but that may be due to the seed stitch pattern. It’s actually calling for a DK weight (about 22sts/4inches in stockinette). The pattern helpfully suggests alternatives such as Berroco Vintage which comes in a wide variety of colors.
If you’re thinking cotton, a cotton blend might be a lighter fabric without the tendency to stretch. And of course yarnsub.com is a very helpful site for suggesting alternatives.