Yarn by Size
Understanding Yarn Sizes
Yarn comes in a variety of sizes, each suited for different types of projects and techniques. The Craft Yarn Council (CYC) has established a standard yarn weight system to help you choose the right yarn for your needs. Here’s a guide to the different yarn sizes and their classifications:
-
Lace Weight (0):
- Description: The thinnest yarn available, often used for delicate and intricate projects.
- Uses: Ideal for lace shawls, doilies, and lightweight garments.
- Needle/Hook Size: 000-1 (1.5-2.25 mm)
- Gauge: 33-40 stitches per 4 inches
-
Super Fine (1):
- Description: Includes fingering, sock, and baby yarns.
- Uses: Perfect for socks, lightweight sweaters, and baby items.
- Needle/Hook Size: 1-3 (2.25-3.25 mm)
- Gauge: 27-32 stitches per 4 inches
-
Fine (2):
- Description: Includes sport and baby yarns.
- Uses: Great for lightweight garments, baby clothes, and accessories.
- Needle/Hook Size: 3-5 (3.25-3.75 mm)
- Gauge: 23-26 stitches per 4 inches
-
Light (3):
- Description: Includes DK (double knitting) and light worsted yarns.
- Uses: Suitable for a wide range of projects, including sweaters, hats, and blankets.
- Needle/Hook Size: 5-7 (3.75-4.5 mm)
- Gauge: 21-24 stitches per 4 inches
-
Medium (4):
- Description: Includes worsted, afghan, and aran yarns.
- Uses: Ideal for sweaters, afghans, and scarves.
- Needle/Hook Size: 7-9 (4.5-5.5 mm)
- Gauge: 16-20 stitches per 4 inches
-
Bulky (5):
- Description: Includes chunky, craft, and rug yarns.
- Uses: Great for chunky scarves, hats, and cozy blankets.
- Needle/Hook Size: 9-11 (5.5-8 mm)
- Gauge: 12-15 stitches per 4 inches
-
Super Bulky (6):
- Description: Very thick yarn, ideal for quick projects.
- Uses: Perfect for heavy blankets, oversized sweaters, and statement accessories.
- Needle/Hook Size: 11+ (8 mm and up)
- Gauge: 7-11 stitches per 4 inches
-
Jumbo (7):
- Description: The thickest yarn available, often used for extreme knitting and crochet.
- Uses: Ideal for arm knitting, large-scale projects, and home decor items.
- Needle/Hook Size: 17+ (12.75 mm and up)
- Gauge: 6 stitches or fewer per 4 inches
Choosing the right yarn size can make a big difference in the look and feel of your finished project. Whether you’re aiming for delicate lace or a chunky knit, there’s a yarn size that’s perfect for your needs!