I’m on a limited budget and also love premium yarn. I wait…… I will wait until there’s a mega sale at a national retailer and blow my whole years budget then. I’m lucky that I have room for a pretty decent stash. I always price by the yard. I actually bought some yarn recently from over seas and can’t wait to get my hands on it. Red heart might be rough but it holds blanket shape like no other. Repeated washings and 20 years later and stuff made with red heart super saver is still going strong.
Thank you. You gave us an economic lesson about yarn and small businesses. And you also reminded us we have the freedom to choose yarns that compliment our budget. Be encouraged and inspired creative crafters! I loved hearing about how your previous experience is relevant to your yarn work.
I appreciate your very thoughtful explanations. Quality does come at a price but for all the time put into creating sometimes it is worth the money. Thank you
Your view of yarn prices is so informative. My stash consists of many different brands. Red Heart, Lion Brand all makes, Caron all makes. Love it all. More expensive yarn I buy when it is on sale and I a special project in mind. Thanks Mikey
Let's not forget, also, that so many of the yarns you find are made by small, independent, spinners and dyers, and even the people who raise the animals. So, you are supporting at a micro-level, keeping small creators fed.
totally agree Mikey, my yarn stash is 90% Red Heart and the kind of patterns I do this yarn works fine, and the yarn does soften after washing,. when I make children's hats I use Red Heart with Love, I just purchased RDWL yarn for a baby blanket that I wanted the blanket to be soft from the beginning.😊
Hi !! just for those that are called yarn hoarders - we are not !! We are yarn care takers !! I love all your videos that talk about yarn & the background of a yarns life !! Thank you for sharing !! 💕💕
Mikey, I have learned so much from you since 2015!! Like many of us, my go to is Red Heart Super Saver. When I started crocheting as a teenager, it was cheap and there weren't that many brands to choose from then. So, that was my go to. Now, I look for the sales, and I have branched out some. But, Red Heart is my go to for afghans. Especially, since we have grandchildren in our house and they don't treat them as kindly as I would wish!! Thank you for sharing you knowledge with us!!!
Totally agree. I never mind paying more for quality, but some projects don't require quality, so then I shop price, color, and yarn content. Amigurumi is a favorite for me. IMHO, it surely doesn't require the finest of yarns. 🥰
I had to lol when you mentioned Zellers because when it went belly-up I bought yarn for 75 cents a ball! It was Bernat and Red Heart! Now the same Red Heart /Bernat has gone up to $8.00 for the same amount + tax!!! Our sole independant shop went belly up because of covid and Walmart now only has yarn that looks like someone chewed it up and spit it up! I am lucky that I am still going through my late mother's reserve....she worked at Simpsons (long time bankrupt) and when they closed their yarn dept she went to town....some of the yarn were $12-$15 at the time (more than 30 years ago!!) but most were less than 1/2 price! I can honestly say that once the stock is depleted, I will have to give up crochet/knitting! My mom used to say if you buy cheap you end up paying double later when it falls apart!!! Thanks for the interesting facts.
My grandma died in 2010 at 90 years old and she had crocheted since she was 10 years old. I know she would have stopped if she saw the prices of yarn now. 🤣
I completely agree with you. I understand sometimes I need to understand the cost I'm willing to spend. I'll use a bargain brand yarn to donate stuff but for family gifts, I use something better. I've always believed that I would rather save up for what I really want than to settle for less. I find myself waiting a lot but it's worth it. Thank you for taking the time to explain pricing to us.
I agree with you, depending on the project depends on he yarn I get. Being a spinner, I have come to learn and understand why specialty yarn can seem expensive. But when you look at the process and time it takes to make yarn, I look at it as supporting that group, and enjoy the process more than the finished project
Thank you for putting this together in one video. The comments that some individuals will put under a creator's video are so unnecessary. This information was very interesting.
De acuerdo con usted maestro! Acá en Puebla , México es difícil encontrar ese estambre o lana. Pero entre más barato más chilla el estambre. Le agradezco los subtítulos porque puedo entender estas pláticas de usted tan interesantes. Yo solía tejer Katia,?Debbie Bliss, Rowan, pero por cuestión de mi viudez y economía tuve que cambiar de marcas! Gracias por sus consejos😘🇲🇽💐💐💐💐👏👏👏👏Tengo 69 años y he aprendido muchas cosas con usted.
I agree with what you are saying. I still use the cheaper yarn on big project that are not going to be worn or be next to my skin. It’s still beautiful and I’m not afraid to wash it if I need to. I save and buy more expensive yarns for special projects but it does involve planning. Like you said, not an impulse buy. Thank you for some great insight into the yarn business. 😁
Interesting info Mikey, thank you! I learned in December, you cannot put a price tag on your sanity or peace of mind! Yarn has helped me in so many ways, whether it was free, $1, $5 or $32.
I recently went to a fiber festival, and it was all indy dyers. I spent a lot of money on the hand dyed yarns, and when I was asked by friends what I wanted to make with it, if it was going to be gifts I said absolutely not. All that yarn is for me. I know people appreciate my gifts and know the time and somewhat the cost that went into it, but I doubt they would appreciate those yarns as much. I know the value of yarn and use it accordingly.
Thank you Mikey, I heard that if you soak ruffer yarns in hair conditioner it softens the yarn, your thoughts? Red heart super saver is a great yarn for beginners, its durable and has so many colors that you can find and match anything you could want, and it does soften up after a few washes. Since I've been actively crocheting for several years now, I have gotten the courage to try more expensive yarns for special projects and wearables, however for Afghans, rugs and baskets, pet beds etc. Red heart and other less expensive yarns work very well.
Very interesting and informative video. You really brought home the point that “wish lists” cost money. This is true for yarn and everything else. The one nice thing about yarn crafts is that there are so many choices to fit everyone’s tastes and budgets. Aren’t we lucky!😍
When I want a soft yarn I will purchase it, but correct me if I'm wrong, super saver or any other basic yarn is great (I use it for blankets and basic things), but if you wash the finished project a time or two, it is not simply soft or any other soft yarn, but it dies soften up. I've made many a sweater in my day for my kids and found this to be true for me.
I find that most of the independent stores around me have mostly Wool and I'm allergic to it - so as I'm just starting I have tended to either shop at charity shops or Walmart/Michael's. But I love going to smaller shops to grab all then extra knick knacks and books even if I have to pay more.
Softness is wonderful but not for every project . I am not a huge wool fan but sometimes wool is the best yarn for the project . I feel like almost all yarn has a place , different yarn for different uses . I will always look for a bargain but that doesn't necessarily mean cheap . Different attributes, different price point means different bargains.
Thank you for a very informative explanation of yarn cost. I,too, live in a land of make believe wishing to meet you . I’ve been a follower of your TH-cam channel,since 2008.
Mikey: thank you for your professional insights! In the beginning I just wanted the cheapest yarn and that was fine because I was just learning. However, I am now more of the mindset of quality vs. quantity. I just found some wool yarn that I've never used before but was about 1/2 off the normal price. I'm moving away from 100% acrylic, and trying to use cotton or wool blends. The other issue for me is country of origin. I check that whenever possible. The upside to all of this is that most chain stores have a very loose return policy. If I start working with yarn and I don't like it, I can return it. Or if I've ordered it online - sight unseen - and the store also has brick and mortar, I can bring it back for a return/exchange. Sadly, everything has gone up in price due to inflation and high fuel costs.
Thank you so much for doing this video. There's a lot of things that people don't think about. Especially now since the prices of yarn is going up because of the cost to ship it. And the bulk of shipping cost is gas and gas we all know is through the roof.
Have noticed recently that WalMart has increased their yarn prices enough that I really have to think it through when purchasing from them. Now JoAnn Fabrics (when having a sale) is much cheaper. Have also noticed that the quality of RedHeart yarn has really made it where I actually am looking at other brands. Know that all the processes and their costs are figured in (accounting degree here). Just hate that I have to really make the decision based on cost to enjoy crocheting. Maybe some day they will level out.
Thank you , I agree. I do use red heart super saver is cost , it's what I started out crocheting with. I like using a yarn that has body . But I do use softer yarns. Thanks for you thoughts.
I have recently ordered a RHSS yarn and was actually disappointed with its softness. I needed extra of a color but the original skein was stiffer and newer skein was softer. It draped differently when I added it to my project. So for some people who want RH to be softer, the skeins really are. I had preferred the stiffness so for me it was a detriment. Lol!!!
I totally agree with you Mikey 👍 thank you for sharing. Always spending a little more you get better quality. If I want to make something and it cost a little more I just take away something I don't really need to get the yarn I want to make that project. 🙂
You are so right Mikey. I have a budget and have to stay with it. If I want a more expensive yarn, I won't buy yarn til I have saved up for what I want. Yarn has definitely got more expensive. We are still using it and continue to use it.
I thought that I would listen to this one while crochet but I became so interested and didn’t want to miss a word . I agree with you especially if it’s for gift worth the extra miles 👍
Thanks for explaining all this! I just started crocheting and I have thought, “Man. Why does this cost so much?!” Lol. I didn’t know if there was any real reason for it but I haven’t used many different yarns yet.
Thank you for this valuable information. Truly-you get what you pay for!! You need to do what you feel comfortable with. Simple. For me if I like the yarn, color…. I am getting it. Thanks for sharing. You really give out great information that is useful.☺️
I enjoyed the video. The yarn on your left kept catching my eye. It’s purple or periwinkle. I like knowing how things are made also. Thank you for sharing.
Yes yarn prices are very high today !! You just need to know what you need and how much yarn it will take!! Some stores unfortunately are on the GREEDY SIDE ON PRICES. WHY THEY PRICE A YARN $7.19 FOR ONE COLOR AND SAME YARN BUT DIFFERENT COLOR $8.49.. THAT IS GREEDY PRICES BOTTOM LINE
Yarn is made with petroleum. It's all related to each other and then you have the retailers with their stores, warehousing and staffing. The cost isn't at the retail side, it's in the raw materials.
I love RHSS, actually I love the 90%of RH that’s has no wool. SS is a little scratchy but washed up it gets softer w/every wash n is long lasting. I’ve made many a baby’s blanket n never had an issue. I remember Zellers and got quite a bit of yarn from them almost every time I was in Canada. Great video, some yarns maybe expensive but that doesn’t bother me bcuz I only shop my budget.
My mom has made afghans for 3 children, 8 grandchildren and is currently working on one for her 4th great-grandchild. A few years ago when I started crocheting, I was surprised by the difference in price of different yarns. So I asked my mom what brand she normally used and if she only bought yarn when there were sales or coupons. She looked me in the eye and said, “I never really thought about the price, I’ve always used Red Heart Super Saver. I never even look at the other brands.” I was floored. My mom’s afghans are super soft! We put them in the washer and dryer, but they last forever. (Delicate cycle, low heat, etc. But still…) I’ll admit, I’ve tried other yarns and many are much softer right off the skein. But you can’t beat the Super Saver price if you just need a regular weight, non-fancy yarn.
Great video mikey and yes I agree that for a special item it’s worth paying out more for yarn but to be able to crochet everyday and have a full supply of yarn in many colours and thicknesses etc for multiple projects is more important to me so the cheaper the better 😉amanda xx💕💖
Did you know that the red heart super saver or jumbo works up just fine, if you lay it across the back of your chair and lean on it for a while after you’ve made your project, then wash it , adding softener to the rinse( I’m using a electric washer) eventually it wears down and softens up. Although it may take more than one washing and sitting on to do this, it is well worth it. So for blankets, I like to use Red Heart, because it is acrylic and it washes just fine. This is just food for thought! Try it and see!
I recently purchased 4 cakes from Panda yarn. It was pricey and I took advantage of a sale. I like supporting a small business, especially one with an inspiring story behind the formation. I am in agreement the project dictates the yarn. I have a new grandson that I made a tapestry crochet blanket costing me over $200 in yarn. It is designed to be passed down therefore I justified the cost. Thank you for the informational videos as well as the instructional. ❤
Thanks for this video, I am on a budget and try to get inexpensive yarn when possible. I feel that if I don't buy more than I need, that I won't find that same color ever again. Along those same lines, I have several supersaver skeins left over and I am hoping to find a stitch that uses the least yarn, but is still very pretty. ... I love the videos that Mikey does, I always search Crochet Crowd before going to a general search for a patter on TH-cam.
This was an excellent video and it really clicked for me Thank you ..I didn’t know you had been in the car / truck industry…the way you compared how production works was fantastic…I really really listened though that little sheep did distract me a few times 😉😂
I have a question…what yarns can be combined that would work well and easily; such as fine fingering with cotton, cotton and #3 , an acrylic #4 with #3 and so on? How do the different brands play into this idea? I hope this question is clear.
I completely agree Mikey..... if you pay $3 for a jumbo skein if yarn your going to get $3 yarn. I have no problem paying for the better yarns for my families projects. I use red heart for amigurumi and stuff like that. There is a zillion colors and it's super durable.
I agree with you 100 oer cent! The only thing I wish is that where i live, Fort Saint John, BC, that there is more craft stores that sell yarn. All we have here is walmart which does not care about the yarn section at all and a small craft store
I would love to use more independent yarn stores. Unfortunately, the LYS here carries natural fibers. In the United States, if you are donating knit or crochet items, you can only use acrylic. When I want to upgrade, I buy enough to make something in which I can see how the yarn works up. Then I can see if I can or will use it. I am dipping my toes In the shallow end. I know it will require more time saving money to buy yarn, maybe it will make me even more of a conscientious purchaser. Thank you for this information.
I understand getting what you paid for completely. What I do not understand is how one big box store has a large yarn company brand for almost twice what another big box store has that same brand?
I think most people do want premium yarn for low prices. But many of us know that isn't reasonable. Glad you showed behind the curtain. People forget about all the preparation in just getting the yarn to the store. Now, could you address why there is the yardage difference between solid and variegated, striped, dotted etc?
I'm very cheap or as I like to say Frugal! But I'm so glad that you ended with ...buy cheap...get cheap....that is so true but I have found if I go somewhere in the middle is my best bet...unless it for something special... Or someone special! I love your videos and your sense of humor... Thanks
Independent stores have the storage/presentation space problem, especially if it's a beginning small storefront. Deciding which yarns and how much space that yarn deserves can be the success/fail point. Shipping time for custom orders can also be a factor. Will it be here in time for the client's deadline? Deciding how much of the extra price should be attached to the client total vs. repeat business probability. It's a big gamble all around.
I agree with you. Yarn is worth what you are willing to pay for it, and there are many factors that go into the price of a skein or hank of yarn. In todays economy with the price of transportation so high, not to mention raw materials the price has to go up. Hopefully the economy will shift and prices will come down, but I doubt it. Thank you for your perspective.
I agree that there are a lot more options now, and many times the cost of the yarn will drive the decision of what yarn to use. I personally can't afford the true boutique yarn, but I don't ever want to settle for RHSS. I know that is all some people can afford, and I am not trying to be a yarn snob, but that yarn doesn't feel like yarn in my hands. I was going to make a blanket for a friend, and the only brand that had her favorite color was RHSS. I purchased the yarn. When I went to start the project, I couldn't stand the feel of it in my hand. I kept telling myself that people say it can be washed and soften up. But, I couldn't do it, and I returned the yarn.
Not an expert by any means however I have found that certain colors are ruffer even in ombre or mandalas from higher priced yarn, not just less expensive brands. They soften up after washing, if you are worried how soft your project is, hand wash it a few times before you give it as a gift, that's what I did for the Afghans I made for my grandchildren and it turned out beautifully.
@@clairecasey8160 thank you . Do you ever find your tension changes a bit when you change to a different colour ? That seems to happen to me when I go to a red or dark colour
No it only changes when in pain or when i feel rushed in finishing my project, often darker colors are harder to see stitches and if your more partial to light or bright colors it could be that the darker colors change your yarn mojo. Just a thought 😆
It's very difficult to request that. Where I live, Red Heart is hard to get where in the USA it's much easier. the Canadian Border limits what we can buy and ect. I find designing so frustrating as I will design something and someone requests it should be circle, rectangle, oval, square or completely different and asking me to redo my work. I feel like a failure on most designs I do for that alone.
Tha k you for this but you are Absolutely right about everything you say it because I love red heart and I love red heart with love also and I love other different yarns I just can’t afford that to buy hand dyed yarn
I wish those oh go's would go on sale here in Sudbury,Ontario. Still $18 in my Walmart. Meanwhile state side they are going for crazy cheap prices. I miss Zellars !!!
I crochet on a budget. I don't have a big budget. I check ads and try to shop the deals. I rarely buy anything that's not on sale. But I also have a major tendency to spend more when its on sale. I use a lot of value yarns and I know what I'm getting when I buy those. And there are some that are made better than others. Does that mean I'll stop using the others? Nope.
You've spoken about buying from stores but people are still leery of actual "browse shopping" and turn to buying online directly from the manufacturer. How does the decrease in shipping to a store affect the price? Is shipping to the home substituted for shipping to the store? Is buying the staple/favorite yarns from the manufacturer the cheapest way to go? The "special" yarns needing to be seen and felt to decide if it's bought.
I usually avoid Red Heart, don't like the feel of working with it, but 💕 love Red Heart Unforgettable. Working with it on baby blankets now and pairing it with Style craft Special DK yarn. I prefer specialty yarns any SSDK is my favorite to work with. Over 100 colors. Usually purchase on line from Wool Warehouse, Lovecraft's and, and Ice Yarns. I pair my purchases with intended projects. Also purchase some needs from Joanne's or Michaels. WalMart's selection is awful. Have purchased from Premier. Have purchased specific yarn off eBay or Amazon if can't find it anywhere else. Bottom line, if I am going to put my time and effort into a project, I want to start with quality product. I do take some yarn suggestions for specific projects from TH-cam tutorials instructors for that specific project. Guess I am in the minority but this is what works for me. I get yarn I want, straight to my door , no running around. Yes I have to pay shipping but sometimes price per ball is less with big warehouses. International rates aren't too bad if you buy enough per order. Also, if I run out of a yarn, I know where I can buy more. Variety of colors, yarn weights and content and brands are wider and more available than any store. for your video. 👍 😊
I agree about the you get what you pay for. You go cheap on your yarn, you get low quality yarn. What people need to do is buy in bulk to beat the high prices.
very great video! its kind of strange that most people want to spend the less money possible but dont accept anything else than super high quality-its either one or the other (there are exceptions, but normaly thats how it is). i think its quite ridiculous when people rant for 5mins on how ruff yarn XY is when it was 99ct for 100gr. i mean, what can you expect? what i also really dislike are statements like „this is very expensive for acrylic/mohair/merino etc, i would never spend more than XY dollars on that material“ cause acrylic isnt acrylic and merino isnt merino-there can be huuuuuge quality differences
I agree. We're so lucky that we have so many choices of yarn. Buy what you can afford and splurge when you can.
I’m on a limited budget and also love premium yarn. I wait…… I will wait until there’s a mega sale at a national retailer and blow my whole years budget then. I’m lucky that I have room for a pretty decent stash. I always price by the yard. I actually bought some yarn recently from over seas and can’t wait to get my hands on it. Red heart might be rough but it holds blanket shape like no other. Repeated washings and 20 years later and stuff made with red heart super saver is still going strong.
I’m so glad you said that, “you get what you pay for” a lot of people don’t get that!!! You want nice, you pay for nice!!!
Thanks for sharing 🌻❤️
Thank you. You gave us an economic lesson about yarn and small businesses. And you also reminded us we have the freedom to choose yarns that compliment our budget. Be encouraged and inspired creative crafters! I loved hearing about how your previous experience is relevant to your yarn work.
I appreciate your very thoughtful explanations. Quality does come at a price but for all the time put into creating sometimes it is worth the money. Thank you
Your view of yarn prices is so informative. My stash consists of many different brands. Red Heart, Lion Brand all makes, Caron all makes. Love it all. More expensive yarn I buy when it is on sale and I a special project in mind. Thanks Mikey
Let's not forget, also, that so many of the yarns you find are made by small, independent, spinners and dyers, and even the people who raise the animals. So, you are supporting at a micro-level, keeping small creators fed.
totally agree Mikey, my yarn stash is 90% Red Heart and the kind of patterns I do this yarn works fine, and the yarn does soften after washing,. when I make children's hats I use Red Heart with Love, I just purchased RDWL yarn for a baby blanket that I wanted the blanket to be soft from the beginning.😊
Hi !! just for those that are called yarn hoarders - we are not !! We are yarn care takers !! I love all your videos that talk about yarn & the background of a yarns life !! Thank you for sharing !! 💕💕
Yes!! I am a curator of my very own Yarn Museum!!
Mikey, I have learned so much from you since 2015!! Like many of us, my go to is Red Heart Super Saver. When I started crocheting as a teenager, it was cheap and there weren't that many brands to choose from then. So, that was my go to. Now, I look for the sales, and I have branched out some. But, Red Heart is my go to for afghans. Especially, since we have grandchildren in our house and they don't treat them as kindly as I would wish!! Thank you for sharing you knowledge with us!!!
I agree to agree! Option’s and choice’s, unique and mainstream, blessings and curses… There’s more than meet’s the eye in everything we see or do
People need to watch this periodically to be reminded. The info is something we should know but forget. Thanks.
"SALE" Is my ver favorite word!! I look for that, and even better, "CLEARANCE" will also catch my eye!
Totally agree. I never mind paying more for quality, but some projects don't require quality, so then I shop price, color, and yarn content. Amigurumi is a favorite for me. IMHO, it surely doesn't require the finest of yarns. 🥰
Honestly Mickey you make me laugh. Thank you for all your hard work. I’ve learned so much.💖
I had to lol when you mentioned Zellers because when it went belly-up I bought yarn for 75 cents a ball! It was Bernat and Red Heart! Now the same Red Heart /Bernat has gone up to $8.00 for the same amount + tax!!! Our sole independant shop went belly up because of covid and Walmart now only has yarn that looks like someone chewed it up and spit it up! I am lucky that I am still going through my late mother's reserve....she worked at Simpsons (long time bankrupt) and when they closed their yarn dept she went to town....some of the yarn were $12-$15 at the time (more than 30 years ago!!) but most were less than 1/2 price! I can honestly say that once the stock is depleted, I will have to give up crochet/knitting! My mom used to say if you buy cheap you end up paying double later when it falls apart!!! Thanks for the interesting facts.
My grandma died in 2010 at 90 years old and she had crocheted since she was 10 years old. I know she would have stopped if she saw the prices of yarn now. 🤣
Great teaching with logic and facts. I love to listen from the wise individuals.
How interesting and you have such a fantastic way of expressing yourself. Thank you.
I completely agree with you. I understand sometimes I need to understand the cost I'm willing to spend. I'll use a bargain brand yarn to donate stuff but for family gifts, I use something better. I've always believed that I would rather save up for what I really want than to settle for less. I find myself waiting a lot but it's worth it. Thank you for taking the time to explain pricing to us.
Heirloom potential has a factor in my decisions, too. Will this be a favorite that's passed down or will it go a charity?
I so agree Mikey, this video was so needed when discussing yarn pricing and what’s significant for each person
I agree...you are spot-on with "you get what you pay for". Interesting video. Thanks
I agree with you, depending on the project depends on he yarn I get. Being a spinner, I have come to learn and understand why specialty yarn can seem expensive. But when you look at the process and time it takes to make yarn, I look at it as supporting that group, and enjoy the process more than the finished project
Thank you for putting this together in one video. The comments that some individuals will put under a creator's video are so unnecessary. This information was very interesting.
Hola Mikey, the yarn fairy has a difficult job trying to please everyone. You are a fresh breath of air. Be well.
As Always you give thoughtful and through explanations. Thank you for giving insight into the independent vs. big box. :-)
De acuerdo con usted maestro! Acá en Puebla , México es difícil encontrar ese estambre o lana. Pero entre más barato más chilla el estambre. Le agradezco los subtítulos porque puedo entender estas pláticas de usted tan interesantes. Yo solía tejer Katia,?Debbie Bliss, Rowan, pero por cuestión de mi viudez y economía tuve que cambiar de marcas! Gracias por sus consejos😘🇲🇽💐💐💐💐👏👏👏👏Tengo 69 años y he aprendido muchas cosas con usted.
I agree with what you are saying. I still use the cheaper yarn on big project that are not going to be worn or be next to my skin. It’s still beautiful and I’m not afraid to wash it if I need to. I save and buy more expensive yarns for special projects but it does involve planning. Like you said, not an impulse buy. Thank you for some great insight into the yarn business. 😁
Interesting info Mikey, thank you! I learned in December, you cannot put a price tag on your sanity or peace of mind! Yarn has helped me in so many ways, whether it was free, $1, $5 or $32.
I recently went to a fiber festival, and it was all indy dyers. I spent a lot of money on the hand dyed yarns, and when I was asked by friends what I wanted to make with it, if it was going to be gifts I said absolutely not. All that yarn is for me.
I know people appreciate my gifts and know the time and somewhat the cost that went into it, but I doubt they would appreciate those yarns as much.
I know the value of yarn and use it accordingly.
I hear you on this one my crocheting 🧶 acquaintance ‼️🤘🏾👍🏾😉🥳
Thank you Mikey, I heard that if you soak ruffer yarns in hair conditioner it softens the yarn, your thoughts? Red heart super saver is a great yarn for beginners, its durable and has so many colors that you can find and match anything you could want, and it does soften up after a few washes. Since I've been actively crocheting for several years now, I have gotten the courage to try more expensive yarns for special projects and wearables, however for Afghans, rugs and baskets, pet beds etc. Red heart and other less expensive yarns work very well.
Very interesting and informative video. You really brought home the point that “wish lists” cost money. This is true for yarn and everything else. The one nice thing about yarn crafts is that there are so many choices to fit everyone’s tastes and budgets. Aren’t we lucky!😍
When I want a soft yarn I will purchase it, but correct me if I'm wrong, super saver or any other basic yarn is great (I use it for blankets and basic things), but if you wash the finished project a time or two, it is not simply soft or any other soft yarn, but it dies soften up. I've made many a sweater in my day for my kids and found this to be true for me.
Mikey
You are so intelligent with information on yarn! I love your videos and chats🙃🙃❤❤❤
I find that most of the independent stores around me have mostly Wool and I'm allergic to it - so as I'm just starting I have tended to either shop at charity shops or Walmart/Michael's. But I love going to smaller shops to grab all then extra knick knacks and books even if I have to pay more.
Softness is wonderful but not for every project . I am not a huge wool fan but sometimes wool is the best yarn for the project . I feel like almost all yarn has a place , different yarn for different uses .
I will always look for a bargain but that doesn't necessarily mean cheap . Different attributes, different price point means different bargains.
Thank you for a very informative explanation of yarn cost. I,too, live in a land of make believe wishing to meet you . I’ve been a follower of your TH-cam channel,since 2008.
Mikey: thank you for your professional insights! In the beginning I just wanted the cheapest yarn and that was fine because I was just learning. However, I am now more of the mindset of quality vs. quantity. I just found some wool yarn that I've never used before but was about 1/2 off the normal price. I'm moving away from 100% acrylic, and trying to use cotton or wool blends. The other issue for me is country of origin. I check that whenever possible. The upside to all of this is that most chain stores have a very loose return policy. If I start working with yarn and I don't like it, I can return it. Or if I've ordered it online - sight unseen - and the store also has brick and mortar, I can bring it back for a return/exchange. Sadly, everything has gone up in price due to inflation and high fuel costs.
Thank you so much for doing this video. There's a lot of things that people don't think about. Especially now since the prices of yarn is going up because of the cost to ship it. And the bulk of shipping cost is gas and gas we all know is through the roof.
Have noticed recently that WalMart has increased their yarn prices enough that I really have to think it through when purchasing from them. Now JoAnn Fabrics (when having a sale) is much cheaper. Have also noticed that the quality of RedHeart yarn has really made it where I actually am looking at other brands. Know that all the processes and their costs are figured in (accounting degree here). Just hate that I have to really make the decision based on cost to enjoy crocheting. Maybe some day they will level out.
Like people, every yarn has its place 😊 Thanks for being so informative!
Oh! What a great video! So so true. From now on my look at a price tag will be completely different. Thank you so mucho 👏👏👏
Thank you , I agree. I do use red heart super saver is cost , it's what I started out crocheting with. I like using a yarn that has body . But I do use softer yarns. Thanks for you thoughts.
I have recently ordered a RHSS yarn and was actually disappointed with its softness. I needed extra of a color but the original skein was stiffer and newer skein was softer. It draped differently when I added it to my project. So for some people who want RH to be softer, the skeins really are. I had preferred the stiffness so for me it was a detriment. Lol!!!
I found your background and how it relates to yarn very interesting. Thank you 😊
I totally agree with you Mikey 👍 thank you for sharing. Always spending a little more you get better quality. If I want to make something and it cost a little more I just take away something I don't really need to get the yarn I want to make that project. 🙂
You are so right Mikey. I have a budget and have to stay with it. If I want a more expensive yarn, I won't buy yarn til I have saved up for what I want. Yarn has definitely got more expensive. We are still using it and continue to use it.
Thank you for the explanation. It makes sense!
I thought that I would listen to this one while crochet but I became so interested and didn’t want to miss a word . I agree with you especially if it’s for gift worth the extra miles 👍
Thank you for your insight. It was very informative and helpful
I agree with you! I love watching you channel! Thank you!🧶👏🏻❤️
Nice little lesson on purpose of yarn pricing.
All very true. For many our budget dictates what we can afford on a project.
Thanks for explaining all this! I just started crocheting and I have thought, “Man. Why does this cost so much?!” Lol. I didn’t know if there was any real reason for it but I haven’t used many different yarns yet.
Great informative video Mikey! You get what you pay for is oh so true in all of other mediums (quilting and counted cross stitch.
Thank you for this valuable information. Truly-you get what you pay for!! You need to do what you feel comfortable with. Simple. For me if I like the yarn, color…. I am getting it. Thanks for sharing. You really give out great information that is useful.☺️
I enjoyed the video. The yarn on your left kept catching my eye. It’s purple or periwinkle. I like knowing how things are made also. Thank you for sharing.
Yes yarn prices are very high today !! You just need to know what you need and how much yarn it will take!! Some stores unfortunately are on the GREEDY SIDE ON PRICES. WHY THEY PRICE A YARN $7.19 FOR ONE COLOR AND SAME YARN BUT DIFFERENT COLOR $8.49.. THAT IS GREEDY PRICES BOTTOM LINE
Yarn is made with petroleum. It's all related to each other and then you have the retailers with their stores, warehousing and staffing. The cost isn't at the retail side, it's in the raw materials.
Yes, why is the same yarn different prices for different colors?
I love RHSS, actually I love the 90%of RH that’s has no wool. SS is a little scratchy but washed up it gets softer w/every wash n is long lasting. I’ve made many a baby’s blanket n never had an issue.
I remember Zellers and got quite a bit of yarn from them almost every time I was in Canada.
Great video, some yarns maybe expensive but that doesn’t bother me bcuz I only shop my budget.
I have a blanket my mom made me over 40 years ago with Red Heart Super Saver. It's not very soft, but man is it durable!!
My mom has made afghans for 3 children, 8 grandchildren and is currently working on one for her 4th great-grandchild. A few years ago when I started crocheting, I was surprised by the difference in price of different yarns. So I asked my mom what brand she normally used and if she only bought yarn when there were sales or coupons. She looked me in the eye and said, “I never really thought about the price, I’ve always used Red Heart Super Saver. I never even look at the other brands.”
I was floored. My mom’s afghans are super soft! We put them in the washer and dryer, but they last forever. (Delicate cycle, low heat, etc. But still…)
I’ll admit, I’ve tried other yarns and many are much softer right off the skein. But you can’t beat the Super Saver price if you just need a regular weight, non-fancy yarn.
Great video mikey and yes I agree that for a special item it’s worth paying out more for yarn but to be able to crochet everyday and have a full supply of yarn in many colours and thicknesses etc for multiple projects is more important to me so the cheaper the better 😉amanda xx💕💖
Did you know that the red heart super saver or jumbo works up just fine, if you lay it across the back of your chair and lean on it for a while after you’ve made your project, then wash it , adding softener to the rinse( I’m using a electric washer) eventually it wears down and softens up. Although it may take more than one washing and sitting on to do this, it is well worth it. So for blankets, I like to use Red Heart, because it is acrylic and it washes just fine. This is just food for thought! Try it and see!
Thank you so much for this explanation. It makes more sense now.
very interesting. I learned something new today.
I recently purchased 4 cakes from Panda yarn. It was pricey and I took advantage of a sale. I like supporting a small business, especially one with an inspiring story behind the formation. I am in agreement the project dictates the yarn. I have a new grandson that I made a tapestry crochet blanket costing me over $200 in yarn. It is designed to be passed down therefore I justified the cost.
Thank you for the informational videos as well as the instructional. ❤
Thank you for this video. You definitely get what you pay for.
Thanks for this video, I am on a budget and try to get inexpensive yarn when possible. I feel that if I don't buy more than I need, that I won't find that same color ever again. Along those same lines, I have several supersaver skeins left over and I am hoping to find a stitch that uses the least yarn, but is still very pretty. ... I love the videos that Mikey does, I always search Crochet Crowd before going to a general search for a patter on TH-cam.
A lot of info. Thanks for sharing.
This was an excellent video and it really clicked for me Thank you ..I didn’t know you had been in the car / truck industry…the way you compared how production works was fantastic…I really really listened though that little sheep did distract me a few times 😉😂
I have a question…what yarns can be combined that would work well and easily; such as fine fingering with cotton, cotton and #3 , an acrylic #4 with #3 and so on? How do the different brands play into this idea? I hope this question is clear.
I completely agree Mikey..... if you pay $3 for a jumbo skein if yarn your going to get $3 yarn. I have no problem paying for the better yarns for my families projects. I use red heart for amigurumi and stuff like that. There is a zillion colors and it's super durable.
I agree with you 100 oer cent! The only thing I wish is that where i live, Fort Saint John, BC, that there is more craft stores that sell yarn. All we have here is walmart which does not care about the yarn section at all and a small craft store
Red heart is surprisingly soft once it’s been washed. So I’ll use it when it makes sense in that context.
Red heart, not so soft, RHWL, softer, RH soft, smaller skein, yummy texture
Thank you for an informative podcast. Very interesting. 🧶🧶
Nice job. Hopefully this helps people who ponder pricing.
I would love to use more independent yarn stores. Unfortunately, the LYS here carries natural fibers. In the United States, if you are donating knit or crochet items, you can only use acrylic.
When I want to upgrade, I buy enough to make something in which I can see how the yarn works up. Then I can see if I can or will use it.
I am dipping my toes In the shallow end. I know it will require more time saving money to buy yarn, maybe it will make me even more of a conscientious purchaser.
Thank you for this information.
I understand getting what you paid for completely. What I do not understand is how one big box store has a large yarn company brand for almost twice what another big box store has that same brand?
I think most people do want premium yarn for low prices. But many of us know that isn't reasonable. Glad you showed behind the curtain. People forget about all the preparation in just getting the yarn to the store. Now, could you address why there is the yardage difference between solid and variegated, striped, dotted etc?
I'm very cheap or as I like to say Frugal! But I'm so glad that you ended with ...buy cheap...get cheap....that is so true but I have found if I go somewhere in the middle is my best bet...unless it for something special... Or someone special! I love your videos and your sense of humor... Thanks
Independent stores have the storage/presentation space problem, especially if it's a beginning small storefront. Deciding which yarns and how much space that yarn deserves can be the success/fail point. Shipping time for custom orders can also be a factor. Will it be here in time for the client's deadline? Deciding how much of the extra price should be attached to the client total vs. repeat business probability. It's a big gamble all around.
I agree with you. Yarn is worth what you are willing to pay for it, and there are many factors that go into the price of a skein or hank of yarn. In todays economy with the price of transportation so high, not to mention raw materials the price has to go up. Hopefully the economy will shift and prices will come down, but I doubt it. Thank you for your perspective.
I agree that there are a lot more options now, and many times the cost of the yarn will drive the decision of what yarn to use. I personally can't afford the true boutique yarn, but I don't ever want to settle for RHSS. I know that is all some people can afford, and I am not trying to be a yarn snob, but that yarn doesn't feel like yarn in my hands. I was going to make a blanket for a friend, and the only brand that had her favorite color was RHSS. I purchased the yarn. When I went to start the project, I couldn't stand the feel of it in my hand. I kept telling myself that people say it can be washed and soften up. But, I couldn't do it, and I returned the yarn.
Walmart red heart yarn went up 2 dallors here in Georgia
I’m so happy I’ve found you in 2022
100% agree I have a question that may sound dumb but can some colours make a yarn feel more rough ? Thank you for all you do for us !
Not an expert by any means however I have found that certain colors are ruffer even in ombre or mandalas from higher priced yarn, not just less expensive brands. They soften up after washing, if you are worried how soft your project is, hand wash it a few times before you give it as a gift, that's what I did for the Afghans I made for my grandchildren and it turned out beautifully.
@@clairecasey8160 thank you . Do you ever find your tension changes a bit when you change to a different colour ? That seems to happen to me when I go to a red or dark colour
No it only changes when in pain or when i feel rushed in finishing my project, often darker colors are harder to see stitches and if your more partial to light or bright colors it could be that the darker colors change your yarn mojo. Just a thought 😆
I would like it if designers, would give you cheaper or other options for a yarn to use. That we give the same effect or close to it.
It's very difficult to request that. Where I live, Red Heart is hard to get where in the USA it's much easier. the Canadian Border limits what we can buy and ect. I find designing so frustrating as I will design something and someone requests it should be circle, rectangle, oval, square or completely different and asking me to redo my work. I feel like a failure on most designs I do for that alone.
👍 Thanks for the information 😍✋
It goes back to something my mother always says. You get what you pay for. Cheap yarn? Cheap product (usually).
Tha k you for this but you are Absolutely right about everything you say it because I love red heart and I love red heart with love also and I love other different yarns I just can’t afford that to buy hand dyed yarn
I think you are right 🥰
This was interesting!
I would rather buy from small business when I can. Better service at independent store. Keep small businesses alive.
I wish those oh go's would go on sale here in Sudbury,Ontario.
Still $18 in my Walmart. Meanwhile state side they are going for crazy cheap prices.
I miss Zellars !!!
Thank you 😊
I crochet on a budget. I don't have a big budget. I check ads and try to shop the deals. I rarely buy anything that's not on sale. But I also have a major tendency to spend more when its on sale. I use a lot of value yarns and I know what I'm getting when I buy those. And there are some that are made better than others. Does that mean I'll stop using the others? Nope.
You've spoken about buying from stores but people are still leery of actual "browse shopping" and turn to buying online directly from the manufacturer. How does the decrease in shipping to a store affect the price? Is shipping to the home substituted for shipping to the store? Is buying the staple/favorite yarns from the manufacturer the cheapest way to go? The "special" yarns needing to be seen and felt to decide if it's bought.
I usually avoid Red Heart, don't like the feel of working with it, but 💕 love Red Heart Unforgettable. Working with it on baby blankets now and pairing it with Style craft Special DK yarn. I prefer specialty yarns any SSDK is my favorite to work with. Over 100 colors. Usually purchase on line from Wool Warehouse, Lovecraft's and, and Ice Yarns. I pair my purchases with intended projects. Also purchase some needs from Joanne's or Michaels. WalMart's selection is awful. Have purchased from Premier. Have purchased specific yarn off eBay or Amazon if can't find it anywhere else. Bottom line, if I am going to put my time and effort into a project, I want to start with quality product. I do take some yarn suggestions for specific projects from TH-cam tutorials instructors for that specific project. Guess I am in the minority but this is what works for me. I get yarn I want, straight to my door , no running around. Yes I have to pay shipping but sometimes price per ball is less with big warehouses. International rates aren't too bad if you buy enough per order. Also, if I run out of a yarn, I know where I can buy more. Variety of colors, yarn weights and content and brands are wider and more available than any store. for your video. 👍 😊
BERNAT BLANKET/BABY WENT FROM $6.99 TO $11.99 I DON'T CRAFT AS MUCH
I agree about the you get what you pay for. You go cheap on your yarn, you get low quality yarn. What people need to do is buy in bulk to beat the high prices.
very great video!
its kind of strange that most people want to spend the less money possible but dont accept anything else than super high quality-its either one or the other (there are exceptions, but normaly thats how it is). i think its quite ridiculous when people rant for 5mins on how ruff yarn XY is when it was 99ct for 100gr. i mean, what can you expect? what i also really dislike are statements like „this is very expensive for acrylic/mohair/merino etc, i would never spend more than XY dollars on that material“ cause acrylic isnt acrylic and merino isnt merino-there can be huuuuuge quality differences