Crochet Yarn Cost Calculator
Created by: Sophia Bennett
Last updated:
Calculate the total yarn cost for any crochet project. Enter your yardage, choose a yarn preset or enter custom pricing, and get the skeins needed, total cost, cost per yard, and a full cost breakdown with discounts and shipping.
Crochet Yarn Cost Calculator
CrochetCalculate total cost, skeins needed, and cost per yard for any crochet project
Project Yardage
Yarn Details
Discounts & Shipping
Related Calculators
What is a Crochet Yarn Cost Calculator?
A Crochet Yarn Cost Calculator estimates the total cost of yarn for any crochet project. It takes your total yardage requirement, the price and yardage per skein of your chosen yarn, and calculates how many skeins you need and what the total cost will be — including optional discounts, extra yarn buffers, and shipping.
Whether you are budgeting for a single baby blanket or pricing materials for a craft fair inventory, knowing the exact yarn cost helps you make informed purchasing decisions and avoid mid-project yarn runs.
Yarn Cost Formulas
Adjusted yardage: Total yardage × (1 + Extra %)
Skeins needed: ⌈Adjusted yardage ÷ Yards per skein⌉ (rounded up)
Subtotal: Skeins needed × Price per skein
Discount: Subtotal × Discount %
Total cost: Subtotal − Discount + Shipping
Cost per yard: Total cost ÷ (Skeins × Yards per skein)
Yarn Cost Calculation Example
You need 1,200 yards of worsted-weight yarn. Your chosen yarn costs $7.99/skein with 220 yards/skein. You want 10% extra and have a 20% off coupon.
- Adjusted yardage = 1,200 × 1.10 = 1,320 yards
- Skeins = ⌈1,320 ÷ 220⌉ = 6 skeins
- Subtotal = 6 × $7.99 = $47.94
- Discount = $47.94 × 0.20 = −$9.59
- Total = $47.94 − $9.59 = $38.35
- Cost per yard = $38.35 ÷ 1,320 = $0.029/yd
Common Applications
- Project Budgeting — know exactly how much a blanket, garment, or gift will cost before buying
- Yarn Comparison — compare cost per yard between different brands or fibres
- Commission Pricing — calculate material costs for custom crochet orders
- Craft Fair Planning — budget materials for multiple inventory items
- Sale Shopping — quickly see how much a coupon or sale saves on your project
Tips for Accurate Results
- Always use the yards per skein from the actual yarn label — it varies by colourway and dye lot.
- Add 10–15% extra yarn for swatching, mistakes, and tension variations.
- Buy all skeins from the same dye lot to avoid colour differences.
- Check for bulk discounts — many stores give 10–20% off when you buy 10+ skeins.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does yarn cost for a crochet blanket?
A throw-size blanket (50×60 inches) in worsted-weight acrylic typically costs $25–$60 using budget yarn, or $80–$200+ with premium fibres. The total cost depends on yarn weight, fibre content, project size, and brand. This calculator gives you an exact cost based on your specific yarn.
How do I calculate how many skeins I need?
Divide your total required yardage by the yards per skein of your chosen yarn. Always round up — you cannot buy half a skein. We recommend adding 10–15% extra for swatching, tension variations, and potential mistakes. This calculator handles all of that automatically.
Is expensive yarn worth it for crochet?
It depends on the project. For everyday blankets and practice pieces, budget acrylic works well. For wearables, baby items, and gifts, higher-quality fibres (cotton, merino, alpaca) are softer, more durable, and look more polished. Calculate the cost difference above to make an informed decision.
How can I reduce the cost of a crochet project?
Buy yarn on sale or in bulk, use coupons, check thrift stores for donated yarn, substitute a more affordable yarn weight, choose acrylic over natural fibres, or reduce the project size. Use this calculator to compare costs between different yarn options.
Should I include shipping in my yarn cost calculation?
Yes, especially for online orders. Many yarn stores offer free shipping above a threshold (usually $50–$75). If shipping applies, add it to the per-skein cost or to the total. This calculator includes an optional shipping field for complete accuracy.
Sources and References
- Craft Yarn Council, "Standard Yarn Weight System & Gauge Ranges", 2024
- Ravelry, "Yarn Price & Yardage Database", 2024
- JOANN Fabrics, "Yarn Pricing & Buying Guide", 2024