For a medium-sized women's cardigan crocheted in DK weight yarn, you should plan for approximately 1,400 to 2,100 yards as a reliable baseline [1][2]. Both panel members converge on this range, though the upper bound reflects variation based on design complexity and garment length.

The exact yardage depends on several factors. Simple stitch patterns like single or double crochet fall toward the lower end (around 1,400–1,500 yards), while more yarn-intensive techniques such as cables, bobbles, or textured stitches push the requirement higher, potentially to 1,700–1,900 yards or beyond [1]. Crochet typically requires approximately 30% more yarn than knitting due to denser stitch structures [1][2]. Garment construction also matters: a cropped or short-sleeved cardigan might need only 1,000–1,200 yards, whereas designs with shawl collars, deep pockets, or oversized fits can reach 2,000+ yards [1].

When purchasing, note that a standard DK skein contains 220–300 yards [1]. For a mid-range estimate of 1,500 yards, you would need approximately 6 to 7 skeins; for safety with complex patterns, 8 to 10 skeins is prudent [1][3]. Always consult your specific crochet pattern first, as tension and stitch density significantly affect total yardage [3]. Purchasing one extra skein beyond the pattern's calculation provides a buffer for swatching, tension variations, and dye-lot consistency [1].