The first hint of fall has a way of making knitters want to cast on something new. But choosing the right yarn for your next autumn project is about more than finding the warmest wool or the prettiest color.

From breathable cotton and drapey linen to cozy wool, luxurious alpaca, and versatile blends, each fiber brings something different to your knitting. The key is finding the one that fits your climate, your project, and the fabric you want to create.

Before you fall completely in love with that skein, let’s take a closer look at what different fibers can bring to your fall knitting.

Two yarns can be the same weight and still behave completely differently. In this post, we’ll cover four fiber terms that help you “read” yarn with more confidence without getting overwhelmed—and invite you to join my newsletter for more.