S-Twist vs Z-Twist: Why Direction Matters

Hold a strand of yarn vertically and look at the angle of the twist.

S-Twist Yarn

Fibres slope up to the left, like the middle of the letter S.

Most commercial yarns end up with an S-twist after plying.

Z-Twist Yarn

Fibres slope up to the right, like the middle of the letter Z.

These yarns are less common, but they are becoming increasingly popular — especially among crocheters.

How Twist Affects Crochet (Especially Right-Handed Crocheters)

Crochet involves a clockwise wrapping motion for most right-handed makers.
This means:

Crocheting tends to reinforce Z-twist

You ADD twist to Z-twist yarn as you work, making it:

• Stronger
• Smoother
• Less splitty
• More defined in stitches

 Crocheting tends to untwist S-twist

Right-handed crochet removes twist from S-twist yarn, which can cause:

• Yarn splitting
• Plies coming apart
• Fuzzy or loose fabric
• Decreased stitch definition
• Frustration (especially in tight amigurumi stitches!)

If you’ve ever wondered why some yarn falls apart while making amigurumi… it’s often the twist.

Left-Handed Crocheters: A Quick Note

Left-handers naturally crochet in the opposite motion.

 Left-handed crocheters usually prefer S-twist yarn because their movements add twist instead of removing it.

So the “best” twist depends on the hands holding the hook!

Why Z-Twist Yarn Is Often Ideal for Amigurumi Designers

As an amigurumi maker, you rely on:

Tight stitches

Strong shaping

Clean surface texture

Smooth, invisible increases/decreases

Z-twist yarn helps you achieve:
Crisp stitches
Better control over tension
Yarn that doesn’t fray even during frogging
A cleaner surface when stretching stitches with stuffing

For toy makers, the difference can be huge — especially in small parts like limbs, ears, or detailed facial features.

Types of Yarn & How They Behave

Here’s a quick guide to common yarn types and how twist interacts with each:

Acrylic

• Affordable and easy-care
• Great for amigurumi
• Multi-ply acrylic + Z-twist = dream for crocheters

Cotton

• Crisp, defined stitches
• Can feel splitty if loosely spun
• Benefits the MOST from Z-twist

Wool & Wool Blends

• Naturally cohesive fibres
• Less splitting overall
• Twist direction still affects stitch definition

Bamboo & Plant Fibres

• Smooth, slippery
• Need stronger twist or multiple plies
• Z-twist improves stability for crochet

How to Check Your Yarn at Home

You don’t need the label to know the twist — simply:

Hold the yarn straight in front of you.

Look at the angle of the plies.

If they tilt like / → Z-twist

If they tilt like \ → S-twist

Do it with a few skeins and you’ll be surprised how many behave differently under the hook.

Final Tips for Choosing Yarn as a Crocheter

Try a few Z-twist brands and compare stitch quality.

For S-twist yarn, use a hook with a deeper throat to reduce splitting.

When designing patterns, make a note about recommended twist — your customers will appreciate it!

If your stitches look messy, check the twist direction before changing hooks or yarn weight.

Yarn twist is one of those hidden “secrets” of crochet that makes a real difference. Whether you’re designing amigurumi, writing patterns, or creating gifts, understanding S-twist and Z-twist helps you choose yarn that supports your technique — not fights it.

Once you start paying attention to twist direction, you’ll notice smoother stitches, a more enjoyable crochet experience, and better-looking finished pieces.