Women’s Institute Premium Acrylic DK Yarn Review (UK)

While browsing for affordable crochet yarn in the UK, I came across the Women’s Institute Premium Acrylic Yarn at Hobbycraft. This 100% acrylic yarn immediately stood out, and in this review I’ll be focusing on the double knit (DK) weight to see how it performs for everyday crochet projects.

Yarn Overview and First Impressions

The Women’s Institute Premium Acrylic DK yarn lives up to its name on first inspection. The strand thickness is consistent throughout, which is essential for neat stitches and even tension. It has a gentle sheen that adds a polished look to finished projects without appearing overly glossy, while still retaining a slightly matte softness.

The yarn feels smooth and comfortable to work with, making it suitable for longer crochet sessions. Although it may not be the softest acrylic yarn in my stash, it offers a pleasing balance of softness, durability, and stitch definition.

Crochet Hook Size and Tension Results

The recommended crochet hook size for this DK yarn is 4mm. After working up several granny squares, I completely agree with this guidance. A 4mm hook produces a well-structured fabric with clearly defined stitches, and I wouldn’t personally size up or down.

The yarn label states a tension gauge of 23 stitches and 30 rows to create a 4-inch (10cm) square, which I understand to be measured using single crochet stitches. In practice, the yarn holds its shape well and delivers reliable results, making it suitable for garments, blankets, and accessories.

Washability and Everyday Practicality

Washability is a key factor for me when choosing yarn, especially for garments and frequently used items. I prefer yarns that can be washed at 40 degrees, as this fits easily into my regular laundry routine.

I’m happy to report that this yarn meets those requirements. It is safe to wash at 40 degrees, can be tumble dried, and requires dry pressing only. This makes it a practical choice for everyday crochet projects without the worry of special care instructions.

Yarn Weight, Meterage, and Colour Range

Each ball of Women’s Institute Premium Acrylic DK yarn weighs 100g and provides approximately 250 metres of yarn. This generous meterage makes it ideal for a wide range of crochet projects, from baby blankets to adult garments.

The yarn is manufactured in Turkey and is exclusive to Hobbycraft. There are over 20 colour options available, offering a good selection for most projects, although the range is slightly smaller than some competing DK yarn brands such as Paintbox or Stylecraft.

Price, Value for Money, and Final Verdict

This is currently the most expensive DK yarn in my collection, priced at £2.30 per ball (as of February 2021). By comparison, other popular DK yarns I use range from £0.99 to £2.25 per ball.

However, the quality justifies the price, and Hobbycraft frequently runs 3-for-2 offers on this yarn. When purchased during these promotions, the price drops to approximately £1.53 per ball, making it excellent value for a premium acrylic yarn.

Would I buy this yarn again? Absolutely—especially when it’s on offer. Is it one of my favourite DK acrylic yarns? Yes, it has definitely earned a place on that list.