Aran Weight Yarn

Thalassa Remington
13 min readMar 16, 2024
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Dive into the world of Aran Weight Yarn as we explore the top picks for this versatile and popular yarn. Perfect for a range of knitting and crocheting projects, these yarn options deliver both style and substance. Join us as we uncover the best options for your next crafting endeavor.

The Top 7 Best Aran Weight Yarn

  1. Premium Aran Weight Yarn for Luxurious Knits — Experience luxurious knitting with Queensland Kathmandu 100 Aran Weight Tropical Teal, a blend of soft Merino wool, silk, and Cashmere perfect for cozy sweaters, hats, or cowls.
  2. Aran Yarn: Luxurious 35% Alpaca, 65% Wool Mix — Experience the luxurious blend of soft Peruvian Highland Wool and superfine Alpaca in Drops Nepal Mix, an Aran yarn perfect for creating stunning, durable garments.
  3. Soft and Lustrous Bluefaced Leicester Aran Weight Yarn for Knitting — Experience the luxurious comfort of Juniper Moon Farm’s Bluefaced Leicester Aran Yarn, a 100% wool 2-ply yarn with excellent stitch definition, perfect for cozy garments and accessories.
  4. Luxurious Alba Aran Yarn for Fall Knitting — Experience the beauty of Scotland’s heritage in every stitch with Jody Long’s Aran Weight 1010 Petrol Alba Aran Yarn, perfect for stylish knits and crochets this fall.
  5. Elegant Aran Weight Yarn Blend for Luxurious Stitching — Experience ultimate warmth and versatility with The Fibre Co. &Make Aran, a 50/50 blend of soft alpaca and Highland wool, perfect for cozy sweaters, accessories, and homeware projects.
  6. Vibrant 100% Cotton Aran Yarn for Stunning Crochet Projects — Plymouth Yarn Fantasy Naturale: A breath of freshness in crochet, with its 100% cotton, aran weight beauty, sporting a colorful palette featuring gems and vibrant hues. Perfect for transforming your crochet patterns!
  7. Donegal Tweed Aran Weight Yarn — Kelbourne Woolens Lucky Tweed Tomato 615: An authentic Donegal Tweed yarn with an impressive depth of color, perfect for garments and accessories.

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Reviews

🔗Premium Aran Weight Yarn for Luxurious Knits

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Kathmandu Aran by the Queensland Collection Yarn is an exquisite addition to any yarn enthusiast’s stash. In recent times, I have been drawn to its charm, and let me share with you my delightful experiences.

The yarn is a perfect blend of Merino wool, silk, and Cashmere, resulting in a luxurious and soft feel. In addition, the tweeded worsted weight yarn adds a delightful touch of texture and depth to your creations. I’ve had the pleasure of using it for knitting sweaters and hats; I can attest that it’s an excellent choice for these projects, providing a level of comfort and warmth that’s simply irresistible.

Furthermore, the yarn is an ideal choice for creating a cowl or any luxurious item you’d like to add to your wardrobe. Its high-quality blend makes it perfect for these purposes, and I’m certain that you’ll enjoy the comfort it provides.

Although I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with Kathmandu Aran, I must admit that its quality comes at a price. However, if you’re willing to splurge a bit, this yarn is worth every penny. It’s not only a great investment but also a long-lasting one, as its sturdy nature ensures that it holds up well with regular use.

In conclusion, Kathmandu Aran by the Queensland Collection Yarn is a top-notch yarn that’s perfect for those seeking a high-quality blend of Merino wool, silk, and Cashmere. If you’re a knitter looking to make a luxurious and cozy garment, this yarn should definitely be on your radar.

🔗Aran Yarn: Luxurious 35% Alpaca, 65% Wool Mix

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Aran knitting wool is a delightful mix of Peruvian Highland Wool, 35% superfine alpaca, and yarn that feels lightweight yet retains warmth. With a medium weight, the recommended needle size is US 8 or 5mm for those creating garments for men. The wool and alpaca blend offer softness, but the wool maintains shape stability.

Drops Nepal also boasts an impressive range of shades and patterns, making the yarn ideal for those who love to play with colors. However, one minor drawback is that the color may display slightly differently on screens and vary from dyelot to dyelot. Overall, this wool is a versatile, comfortable choice for knitters who crave a blend of alpaca and wool.

🔗Soft and Lustrous Bluefaced Leicester Aran Weight Yarn for Knitting

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I recently had the pleasure of working with Juniper Moon Farm’s Bluefaced Leicester Aran yarn, and I must say it’s a real winner for knitters and crocheters alike. The yarn offers a lovely softness and lustrous feel that’s perfect for warm and cozy garments and accessories. I’ve used it for a sweater and can attest to its excellent stitch definition and pleasant knit-ability. Moreover, the 2-ply worsted weight makes it an excellent choice for cable knits.

While the yarn is definitely lighter than expected from the label, some reviewers actually found it perfect for their needs, citing its compatibility with their sweater patterns. Others have enjoyed the smoothness of the yarn and its resistance to unraveling mistakes. Overall, this is a high-quality Aran weight yarn that provides great value for both your projects and your skills.

🔗Luxurious Alba Aran Yarn for Fall Knitting

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I recently fell in love with Jody Long’s Aran Weight Petrol Alba Aran Yarn, and it’s become my go-to for creating some stunning garments. This yarn stands out with its distressed colors, which add an extra depth to my projects. It’s perfect for sewing cozy tees and beach cover-ups that make me feel like I’m basking in the sunny Scottish Highlands.

What initially attracted me to this yarn was its luxurious blend of Merino Wool, Superfine Alpaca, and sustainable viscose from Germany’s forests. Its subtle and stunning tweed effect is reminiscent of the kingdom of Scotland, making it a great choice for traditional cabled sweaters and even color work. The 175 yards of yarn are suitable for a wide range of knitting and crochet projects, and the suggested knitting gauge makes it super easy to work with.

However, I did find that this yarn can be quite delicate, and I had to be careful when handling it to avoid any stray cat hairs from my fuzzy friend. Additionally, I tried using a larger knitting needle, and it felt like a big mistake, so I had to adjust my gauge accordingly.

Despite these minor setbacks, I’m still in awe of the versatility and beauty of this Aran Weight Petrol Alba Aran Yarn. It’s truly a remarkable addition to my knitting toolkit, and I highly recommend it for all you crafters out there searching for the perfect blend of colors and texture.

🔗Elegant Aran Weight Yarn Blend for Luxurious Stitching

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As a knitter who loves to experiment, I recently gave &Make Aran a try — the 2 ply, aran weight yarn that’s perfect for color work and keeps my hands warm throughout the process. It’s a dream come true for those who appreciate the soft, warm embrace of alpaca and the durability of wool. This blend is a delightful marriage of squishy softness and robustness.

Knitting with this yarn is a breeze, as it’s fast and not at all splitty. The stitch definition it offers is impressive and the fabric turned out incredibly cozy and snug. However, an itch factor that comes with it, as the user notes, might be something to consider if you’re sensitive to wool. But overall, &Make Aran has been a delightful addition to my knitting projects and I can’t wait to see the final outcomes!

🔗Vibrant 100% Cotton Aran Yarn for Stunning Crochet Projects

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Recently, I had the chance to try my hand at crocheting with Plymouth Yarn Fantasy Naturale, and I must say, it was quite the delightful experience. The yarn itself is incredibly soft, making it a joy to work with. The wide range of colors, from classic shades to eye-catching brights and even candy-striped hues, truly inspired me and brought my projects to life.

I was particularly impressed with the 100% cotton nature of the yarn, giving my projects a natural and elegant look. The aran weight of the yarn provided the perfect balance between sturdiness and flexibility, making it suitable for my various crochet patterns, from baby clothes to home décor items.

However, one minor drawback I encountered was a few tangles with the yarn. This happened with one of the 100g skeins I purchased, making me have to adapt my crochet pattern to accommodate for more joins. This put a slight damper on my overall experience, but it didn’t deter me from appreciating the yarn’s other fantastic qualities.

Overall, while the tangles were a bit of a letdown, Plymouth Yarn Fantasy Naturale offered an impressive range of colors and a luxurious feel that made my crochet projects stand out. I would definitely recommend it to fellow crocheters looking for an aran-weight yarn with depth and character.

🔗Donegal Tweed Aran Weight Yarn

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I recently had the opportunity to work with Kelbourne Woolens Lucky Tweed Tomato 615, and I must say, it’s a delight to behold. The yarn’s authentic Donegal Tweed texture is a beautiful sight, with its stunning depth of color that adds character to any project.

Using this aran weight yarn in my daily knitting routine was a delightful experience. The soft hand and the incredible stitch definition made every row feel like a joy to create. However, I should mention that the texture comes with a bit of a challenge: it’s rougher than some other tweed yarns. But, as one reviewer noted, picking out straw-like flecks from the yarn makes her feel connected to nature.

Overall, the Kelbourne Woolens Lucky Tweed Tomato 615 yarn is a fantastic choice for garments and accessories, providing exceptional stitch definition and a soft, beautiful finish. Though the texture might not be for everyone, the depth of color and authentic Donegal Tweed experience make it a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate a touch of nature in their crafts.

Buyer’s Guide

Aran weight yarn is a popular choice among knitters and crocheters due to its versatility and warmth. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll explore the essential features, considerations, and advice for selecting the perfect aran weight yarn for your next project.

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Feature 1: Gauge

The gauge of aran weight yarn refers to the number of stitches and rows per inch (or centimeter) when knitted or crocheted on a specific needle size. A common gauge for aran weight yarn is approximately 4–5 stitches per inch (10–12 stitches per 2.5 cm). This gauge provides a comfortable, medium-thickness fabric suitable for various projects, such as sweaters, hats, and blankets.

Feature 2: Fiber Content

Aran weight yarn is typically made from natural or synthetic fibers. Some popular natural fibers include wool, cotton, and alpaca, while synthetic fibers include acrylic and nylon. Wool is the most common natural fiber due to its excellent insulation, durability, and breathability. Synthetic fibers, on the other hand, offer easier care, such as machine washability and resistance to pilling.

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Feature 3: Weight

Aran weight yarn is classified as a medium-weight yarn, with a weight range of approximately 60–100 grams per 1000 meters (100–150 yards). This weight is suitable for projects that require a medium level of warmth and durability, such as coats, blankets, and hats. It is also an excellent choice for beginner knitters or crocheters, as it provides a good balance between ease of use and versatility.

Feature 4: Color Options

Aran weight yarn is typically available in a wide range of colors, from solid shades to variegated and heathered options. This variety allows you to choose the perfect yarn for your project, whether you’re looking to create a bold statement or a subtle, elegant piece. Be sure to consider the color scheme of your project when selecting your aran weight yarn to ensure a harmonious and cohesive outcome.

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FAQ

Who needs Aran weight yarn and why?

Aran weight yarn is suitable for intermediate knitters who are looking for a sturdy yarn for their projects. It’s ideal for creating warm, sturdy items such as sweaters, blankets, and winter hats. This type of yarn is also perfect for anyone who wants to try their hand at knitting with thicker materials, making it a great choice for beginners or casual knitters who want to create durable items.

Its thicker structure also makes it a great option for creating texture and depth in your knitting projects. Some knitters may find that it’s a bit more challenging to work with than lighter yarns, but with patience and practice, the results are well worth the effort. Overall, Aran weight yarn is a versatile choice that can be used for various projects and is suitable for a wide range of knitting skill levels.

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What are the different types of Aran weight yarn?

There are several types of Aran weight yarn available in the market, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Some of the popular types include: 100% wool yarn, which provides excellent stitch definition and is very durable; cotton yarn, which offers a lighter weight and a smoother finish; and blended yarns, which combine wool and cotton or other fibers for a softer and more comfortable knit.

Different brands may also have different names or categorizations for their Aran weight yarns, so it’s always a good idea to check with your chosen supplier or store. Additionally, some yarns may come in varying weights, such as a heavy Aran or a light Aran, so be sure to look for the right specifications when you’re shopping for your perfect yarn.

What’s the recommended needle size for knitting with Aran weight yarn?

The recommended needle size for knitting with Aran weight yarn typically falls between US size 7 and US size 9 (5.0–5.5mm). It’s always best to consult the yarn label or the pattern instructions for the specific project you’re working on, as the recommended needle size may vary depending on the gauge and stitch pattern you’re using.

It’s also important to note that different knitters may prefer different needle sizes based on their personal comfort and knitting style. Some knitters may find that using a slightly smaller or larger needle size can affect the gauge and pattern of their work. Experimenting with different needle sizes can help you find the optimal balance between stitch tightness and project texture.

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How long does it take to knit with Aran weight yarn?

The time it takes to knit with Aran weight yarn can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the project, your knitting speed, and the tension you’re using. On average, knitting with heavier yarns like Aran typically takes longer than working with lighter yarns. For example, a sweater made with Aran weight yarn could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete, depending on the complexity of the pattern and the individual knitter’s skill level.

It’s also important to consider that the time it takes to knit a project is only part of the equation. You’ll also need to set aside time for washing, blocking, and seaming your work before it’s ready to wear or use. Overall, the time investment required when working with heavy yarns like Aran can be significant, but the end result is often a warm, comfortable, and long-lasting item that you can cherish for years to come.

What knitting techniques should I use when working with Aran weight yarn?

Some essential knitting techniques you should master when working with Aran weight yarn include the basic knit stitch, purl stitch, and yarn over. These foundational techniques will help you build a solid foundation for your knitting projects and ensure a tidy, seamless fabric. Some other techniques that can be helpful when working with heavier yarns include knitting in the round, seamless knitting, and garter stitch.

Additionally, it’s important to practice proper tension while knitting with Aran weight yarn to achieve the desired gauge and fabric consistency. Looser stitches can cause the yarn to stretch or unravel, while overly tight stitches can result in a stiff, uncomfortable fabric. With practice and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to master the techniques required to create beautiful, long-lasting items with Aran weight yarn.

Can I add texture or patterns to my Aran weight yarn projects?

Absolutely! Aran weight yarn is known for its versatility and durability, making it a great option for creating interesting texture and patterns in your projects. Some simple stitch patterns you can try include basic lace styles, such as the shell or eyelet stitch, as well as ribbing, cables, and even Fair Isle techniques for adding color and visual interest to your work.

To get started with creating patterns and texture with Aran weight yarn, you may want to consult pattern books or online tutorials for inspiration and guidance. Additionally, you can experiment with different stitch combinations and yarn weights to create your unique designs. Remember, with practice and creativity, you can turn a simple Aran weight yarn project into something truly special and one-of-a-kind.

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