Worsted & Aran – What’s the Difference?

The names aran and worsted are often used interchangeably, but are aran and worsted the same thing? And if not, what’s the difference?

Aran and worsted weight is sometimes mentioned as two separate yarn weight categories, but at other times they are clumped together and used as one. This is because they are very similar in weight. As a matter of fact, the difference is so small that they both fall under the category, 4 medium, in the American yarn weight standard.

These medium thick yarns are popular among both knitters and crocheters. And that’s no wonder why. The medium yarns are heavy enough to work up quickly, at the same time they are light enough to have a nice drape and fine detailing.

Aran and worsted yarns come in all colors, fibers, and textures. I give you some lovely examples of that at the end of the post along with some knitting and crochet kits that will certainly spark your interest!

So, what’s the difference between worsted and aran?

The yarns that fall under the worsted category are slightly lighter than the aran yarns. They have a higher yardage/meterage and gauge.

Worsted yarns are typically knitted on needles US 6–8 / 4–5mm and have a gauge of around 18–20 stitches per 4 inches/10 centimeters.

The crochet hook sizes recommended for worsted weight yarns are US 9–10 / 5,5–6mm

Aran yarns are sometimes called heavy worsted and are typically knitted on needles US 8–10/5–6mm and have a gauge of around 16–18 stitches per 4 inches or 10 centimeters.

The recommended crochet hook sizes for Aran yarns are US 10–10,5 / 6–6,5mm.

As you can see, there’s not much difference to talk about, but enough to mess up your gauge if you are not careful!

A common question is whether you can substitute between worsted and aran yarns. The short answer is: It depends. For the long answer please head over to this post!

Worsted weight yarns

Aran weight yarns

Worsted & aran knitting kits

Worsted & aran crochet kits