Years ago, I started an afghan as a present for my parents. I wasn't a very good crocheter at the time, and ended up abandoning the project (it was full of mistakes). My mom has never let me forget that she'd still really like to have that.... For Christmas this year, I'd like to make an afghan to surprise them. (OK, they might not get it 'til March or April, but that's beside the point.) I'm going to do an aran (or fisherman's) pattern--using a handful of patterns to kind of develop my own as I go. Most of the crochet I've done has been with thread. I'd like some yarn recommendations. (Please!) I think I need to use worsted weight, but there's a lot of worsted weight yarn out there. What's your favorite?

As i read this i am working on an afgan, and I am knitting it with Bernat worsed weight, I bought the super value balls. I like the softness of this yarn. I hope we get to see your afgan when you are done! I made one similar to what you are describing long ago, but I gave it away as a gift..seems i do that lots!

When I read...fav yarn...I was going to say have you heard the one about the.......just jokin'. Sorry I'm no help in the wool department at all.

Debbie, I would've posted that under 'open chatter'. We're in the Art Studio here! (Art Studio sounds so formal, like I need to be on my best behavior or something! I'd better leave before I break someone's masterpiece!)

Thanks, Benji, for the tip. Unfortunately, the only store in my town that sells yarn is Wal-Mart. I'd like a bigger selection. (I don't want to order yarn online unless I've seen it first so I *know* what I'm getting.) I think I might take a little drive.....

I don't crochet or knit (though I remember as a child crocheting granny squares) ... sure would like to learn again. I can't help on the recommendations ... but I will say I almost bought a gorgeous knit throw this past weekend up in New Hampshire ... it was make with a wool blend ... extremely soft and not itchy at all ... but I passed. I may still go back for one ... it would make a wonderful Christmas gift.

I often buy yarn at walmart, but this yarn came form a Zellers store, which is a Canadian chain I believe. I hope you find something that works for you.