When you’re just starting out with knitting or crochet, it can be tempting to splurge on luxurious yarns, but it’s totally possible to create beautiful projects without breaking the bank! Whether you’re learning the basics or practicing a new technique, choosing the right yarn is key to a satisfying crafting experience. Here’s a list of some of the best budget-friendly yarns that are perfect for beginners without sacrificing quality.
1. Red Heart Super Saver
- Price Range: $3–$5 per skein
- Fiber Content: 100% Acrylic
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: Red Heart Super Saver is one of the most well-known and affordable yarns available. It’s durable, easy to work with, and comes in a wide variety of colors. The yarn is soft enough for comfort but sturdy enough to hold its shape, making it perfect for learning new techniques without worrying about the yarn falling apart. It’s machine washable, too, which is always a plus for beginners!
2. Lion Brand Yarn – Basic Stitch
- Price Range: $4–$6 per skein
- Fiber Content: 100% Acrylic
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: Lion Brand’s Basic Stitch yarn offers a smooth texture that’s easy to work with. It’s soft, has a nice drape, and works well for a variety of projects, from scarves to blankets. This yarn is also machine washable and comes in a range of vibrant colors that will keep you motivated to finish your projects.
3. Bernat Super Value
- Price Range: $3–$5 per skein
- Fiber Content: 100% Acrylic
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: Bernat Super Value is a versatile, soft yarn that’s ideal for first-time projects like blankets, hats, or dishcloths. It’s easy to handle and doesn’t split as much as some other acrylic yarns, making it great for beginners who are just starting to master tension and stitch consistency. Plus, it comes in a wide range of colors, which is always inspiring!
4. Caron One Pound
- Price Range: $7–$10 per skein (but offers a lot of yardage)
- Fiber Content: 100% Acrylic
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: Caron One Pound is another solid acrylic yarn that offers an excellent value. With over 800 yards in a single skein, it’s a great choice for larger projects like blankets or sweaters. The yarn is soft, easy to work with, and comes in a wide array of colors. It’s perfect for beginners who want to tackle bigger projects on a budget.
5. Hobby Lobby I Love This Yarn!
- Price Range: $3–$5 per skein
- Fiber Content: 97% Acrylic, 3% Metallic (in some colors)
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: This yarn from Hobby Lobby is known for its softness and affordability. It’s available in a variety of colors and is easy to work with, making it a great choice for crochet and knitting projects alike. It’s especially great for those who want to try out different techniques without worrying too much about the cost.
6. Paintbox Yarns – Simply Aran
- Price Range: $4–$6 per skein
- Fiber Content: 100% Acrylic
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: Paintbox Yarns offers high-quality yarns at an affordable price, and Simply Aran is a great beginner-friendly option. It’s soft, smooth, and comes in an amazing range of colors, so you’ll always have plenty of choices for your projects. It’s also versatile enough for a wide variety of knitting and crochet techniques.
7. Knit Picks – Brava Worsted
- Price Range: $3–$5 per skein
- Fiber Content: 100% Acrylic
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: Knit Picks is a favorite among many yarn enthusiasts, and their Brava Worsted yarn is perfect for beginners. It’s soft, smooth, and comes in a wide range of vibrant colors. This yarn is great for both knitting and crochet projects, and its price is reasonable for the quality, making it an excellent option for your first yarn stash.
8. Premier Yarns – Everyday Worsted
- Price Range: $4–$6 per skein
- Fiber Content: 100% Acrylic
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: Premier Yarns’ Everyday Worsted is incredibly soft and easy to work with, making it a great choice for newcomers. It’s machine washable and available in a wide variety of colors, making it versatile for both casual and more intricate projects. This yarn is an excellent introduction to working with a worsted weight yarn.
9. Wool-Ease Thick & Quick
- Price Range: $6–$8 per skein
- Fiber Content: 80% Acrylic, 20% Wool
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: If you’re looking for a thicker yarn to create quick and cozy projects, Wool-Ease Thick & Quick is a wonderful option. It’s slightly more expensive than some of the others, but its bulky weight means projects come together very quickly, which can be encouraging for beginners. It’s perfect for scarves, blankets, and even hats.
10. Sugar Bush Yarns – Bold
- Price Range: $5–$7 per skein
- Fiber Content: 100% Merino Wool
- Why It’s Great for Beginners: If you’re looking to branch out and try some wool, Sugar Bush Yarns’ Bold offers a great introduction to wool yarn without the steep prices. It’s soft, durable, and has a luxurious feel, making it ideal for beginner projects like hats, mittens, or scarves. Plus, its relatively affordable price for merino wool is a bonus.
Final Thoughts
When you’re starting out, it’s important to find a yarn that’s easy to handle, fits your budget, and works well for the type of project you want to make. With these options, you won’t have to break the bank to create beautiful projects! Whether you stick with classic acrylics or venture into the world of wool, these budget-friendly yarns will help you learn the craft without stressing over costs. Happy crafting!