Weaving Yarns
Yarn for Weaving in Every Fiber, Weight & Texture on Skeins, Cones, and Spools
Weaving yarn is yarn engineered for use on a loom and is designed for strength, low elasticity, and consistent tension across the warp. Unlike knitting yarn, which prioritizes softness and stretch, weaving yarn is constructed with a tighter twist and higher ply count to withstand the mechanical stress of the heddle, beater, and shuttle without breaking or distorting.
The Woolery carries weaving yarn in natural and synthetic fibers, multiple weight systems, and a range of textures available by the skein and on cones.
Weaving yarn weights explained
Weaving yarn uses a different weight system than knitting yarn. Rather than terms like DK or worsted, weaving yarn is labeled with a ratio such as 3/2, 5/2, or 8/4:
- The first number indicates the thickness of each ply — the lower the number, the thicker the strand
- The second number indicates how many plies are twisted together
Weaving yarn is also sold by yards per pound — more yards per pound means finer yarn. Note that yards per pound varies by fiber: a 20/2 cotton, 20/2 wool, and 20/2 linen will each have a different yards per pound value.
If you're more familiar with knitting yarn weights, use our yarn weight conversion chart to find the equivalent weaving yarn size.
Warp vs. weft yarn
Not all yarn is suitable for warp. Warp yarn must be strong enough to withstand continuous tension across the loom without breaking. Cotton, linen, and tightly twisted wool are reliable warp choices. Loosely spun, textured, or highly elastic yarns are better reserved for weft, where tension demands are lower and surface texture can be a desirable design choice.
Brands carried:
Harrisville Designs, Ashford, Maurice Brassard, and Brown Sheep are among the most widely recommended weaving yarn brands for consistent strength, durability, and reliable weight standards.
If you don't find the exact yarn you want, or would like a weaving yarn recommendation, please call the shop directly at 800-441-9665 or contact us for assistance.
