Can You Use Same Size Needles and Number of Stitches for 2 Different Yarn Weights?

If so, what is the reasoning behind it?
by Jackie E-S

QUESTION —

From Glenys W in Australia:

Hi Jackie, just found out our secret Santa is being done in 2 weekend's time- 11 days! Wow, I'm going to be knitting solidly!

I haven't decided whether to knit the Flared Lace Smoke Ring in a 2 ply lace weight or a 4 ply fingering weight alpaca. Have you used the same number of stitches for either weight yarn? And, if so, what is the reasoning behind it?
Thanks Glenys

ANSWER —

I haven't myself made the Flared Lace Smoke Ring with 4 ply fingering weight alpaca, but have knitted it in both 2 ply lace weight and 3 ply light fingering weight with the same number of stitches and the same size needles.

In cases like this where the needle size is already larger than what would ordinarily be used with the yarn, the needle size is moreso the determinant of the resulting gauge rather than the yarn itself. The slightly thicker yarn just fills in the spaces between stitches a bit more and produces a slightly firmer fabric.

Do you have a Question about knitting technique or skill? Please email me and I will consider it for an upcoming Q&A.

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