Knowing the differences between yarn types and weights has many benefits to a knitter. The knowledge makes an impact on your knitting abilities as you can pick out a yarn of your desire rather than what the pattern specifies. You will also create your designs, thus take your skills to higher levels. This guide helps you to differentiate between double-knit and 4-ply yarns
Double-Knit Yarn
The term double-knit, also known as DK, describes the weight of the wool that lies between sports and worsted weight yarn. Yarn weights include fine, super-fine, light, bulky, super-bulky, and medium. Double knitting yarn ranges between light to medium weight, and it is ideal for summer and lightweight garments.
1. The Structure
To create a double knit, you need to bind two layers of fabric together using multiple sets of needles. The weft knit garment is created using two sets and many strands of wool than a single knit. You will knit the layers of fabric together as they are formed, thus having a finished fabric with two faces. The back of the purl will be generally inter-locked together.
2. Stability
DK is firmer and more stable than other knits and thus more comfortable to use. They are also less stretchy, and the fabric feels thick and firm, hence more durable. The structure is perfect for in-garments, materials used for the bottom, or heavy drapes.
3. Easy to Knit with and Have Good Fabrics
Double knits are easy to knit with, especially for beginners. They rarely roll due to their dense structure, unlike the light yarns. The fabrics do not wrinkle and may not require frequent ironing. They are perfect for skimming garments and can hide lines from under-garments or foundation garments.
4-Ply Yarn
The number of strands of yarns spun together to make it constitutes the ply. It helps to determine how fluffy and durable the wool is. If a thread has more strands, it will be fuller, more durable, and smoother. A yarn that has fewer strands, on the other hand, will be fluffier and less stable.
1. The Structure
A4-ply Yarn is spun from four strands, and it is equivalent to medium-weight thread. The double-knit wool can also be 4-ply. The ply of Yarn does not determine its quality or durability, but it may determine its strength and smoothness. It is, however, necessary to note that a poorly constructed thread made be weak.
2. Stability
The stability of the Yarn does not depend on whether it is 4-ply or not but a combination of weight and ply. You should, therefore, check the gauge swatches provided, feel the Yarn, and consider the brands before picking the wool for your project.
Conclusion
Knitting can be frustrating when you use the wrong weight and ply of the Yarn. It is advisable that before you embark on a project, you know what is right for the garment. The double knit is ideal if you want a durable fabric that is also thick and firm. It is also crucial to consider the ply of the wool and check if it is spun from weak structures or not.
Take your time to know the difference and take your knitting art to better levels and create unmatched garments.
