AA Enterprises · Buyer Tools
Yarn Advisor
Tell us what you are making and we will recommend the count, blend and yarn to start from — then quote it.
A starting point based on common practice — share your exact fabric and we will fine-tune it.
Choosing yarn is four decisions, not one
Most sourcing problems come from specifying only the count. A complete yarn spec needs four things: count, fibre or blend, spin type and twist. Leave any of them open and the mill will choose for you.
Add the finish (grey, dyed, RFD) and the fold, and you have a spec that can be quoted accurately and reproduced lot after lot.
Matching spin type to end use
| Spin type | Character | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Carded ring-spun | Standard, some hairiness | Weft, coarse knits, towels |
| Combed ring-spun | Cleaner, stronger, smoother | Quality knitwear, shirting warp |
| Compact | Least hairy, strongest | Fine counts, premium shirting |
| Open-end (rotor) | Bulkier, weaker, cheaper | Denim weft, coarse counts, canvas |
| Vortex / air-jet | Low hairiness, lean handle | Technical and easy-care fabric |
A practical order of decisions
Start from the fabric you want, not the yarn. Decide the fabric weight and hand first, then the construction that gives it, then the count that suits that construction, and only then the spin and twist.
Working the other way — picking a count first and hoping the fabric works out — is how programmes end up with fabric that is technically to spec and commercially wrong.
Frequently asked questions
What information do you need to quote yarn?
Count, fibre or blend and ratio, spin type, single or folded, grey or dyed, quantity and delivery city.
Should I use combed or carded yarn?
Combed for quality knitwear and shirting warp where evenness and strength matter. Carded is fine for weft, coarse knits and towels, and costs less.
When is open-end yarn the right choice?
For coarse counts where cost matters more than strength and evenness — denim weft, canvas, cleaning cloth and similar.
How do I choose a yarn count?
Work backwards from the fabric weight and construction you want, rather than starting from the count.
Can you advise if I am not sure what I need?
Yes. Tell us the fabric or garment you are making and we will recommend a count, blend and spin, and quote it.