Wool and yarn are often used to mean the same thing, but they're not quite interchangeable. Wool is a fibre that comes from sheep, while yarn is the spun strand you knit or crochet with, which can be made from all sorts of fibres. Understanding the difference helps you read a yarn label with confidence and choose the right material for your project. Here's what sets them apart, and why it matters when you're deciding what to make.

Ever fallen for a pattern only to realise it calls for a different yarn weight than the one in your stash? The good news is you can often adapt it. With a little understanding of gauge, hook or needle size and a willingness to swatch, you can knit or crochet many patterns in a weight that suits you. Here's a practical guide to adapting patterns across yarn weights, so the yarn you love isn't off-limits.

Learn everything you need to know about yarn substitution, from understanding yarn weights and fibre content to matching gauge.

Choosing the right yarn for your knitting or crochet projects can be a daunting task, especially with the wide array of options...