How do I estimate colour percentages?

Chart your pattern on graph paper and count the stitches of each colour, then divide each colour's stitch count by the total to get the percentage. For repeating patterns, you only need to count one repeat. Remember that in tapestry crochet the unused colour is carried (encased) inside every stitch, so the actual metres per colour run higher than the raw chart percentage — that is what the Carried Yarn Factor below accounts for.

Should I buy extra yarn for colourwork?

Yes. Tapestry crochet carries (encases) the unused colour inside every stitch rather than leaving floats on the back, so it consumes noticeably more yarn than plain single-colour crochet. Add roughly 15-20% extra, and always buy from the same dye lot so the colours match across the project.

Does tapestry crochet affect hook size and tension?

Yes. Tapestry crochet needs a denser fabric than plain crochet so the carried (encased) yarn stays hidden inside the stitches. Most crocheters go DOWN one or two hook sizes from the yarn-label recommendation to tighten the fabric. Swatch 20-30 stitches in two colours; if the carried yarn shows through, drop another hook size.

KnitCalcs

Tapestry Crochet Calculator — Calculate yarn for tapestry crochet colourwork.

Calculate yarn for tapestry crochet colourwork.

Total Yarn Needed

Total metres for project

Colour 1 %

Percentage value

Colour 2 %

Percentage value

Extra for Colourwork

Percentage value

How We Calculate This

This calculator splits your total yarn requirement by colour percentage, then inflates each colour to account for the carried (encased) yarn that tapestry crochet hides inside every stitch.

The formula

Per colour = round(Total yarn x Carried Yarn Factor x Colour % / 100)

With extra = ceil(Per colour x (1 + Extra %) + tail allowance)

The Carried Yarn Factor (default 1.2, i.e. +20%) covers the unused colour carried inside the stitches, and the tail allowance adds a small fixed metre buffer per colour for starting/finishing tails. For example, 1200 m at 60 / 40 with a 1.2 factor and 15% extra gives Colour 1 = ceil(round(1200 x 1.2 x 0.60) x 1.15 + 0.2) = 994 m and Colour 2 = 663 m.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard yarn weights and gauge. Results may vary with individual tension, yarn brand, and needle size.