This is Part 2 of the mini series all about yarn. First, we covered one of the more elusive topics- choosing the right yarn fiber for a knit or crochet project. Every crafter, whether new or experienced, will always have to consider the yarn weight for a project. Depending on the pattern, things can get complicated- sometimes only the brand of a yarn is given, or they say a type, such as “aran.” See below for clear guidelines on yarn weight, the categories in each, recommended needle/hook sizes and project ideas.
Yarn categories in this weight: lace, fingering, 10 count crochet thread.
Recommended knit needle size: 1.5- 2.5 mm (US size 000- 1)
Recommended crochet hook size: 2.25 mm (US size B-1)
Project ideas: Yarn in this category is great for baby clothes, socks, and lace projects. The gauge can very greatly depending on the lace work involved, so pay special attention to the pattern!
Yarn categories in this weight: Sock, fingering, and baby
Recommended knit needle size: 2.25- 3.25 mm (US size 1-3)
Recommended crochet hook size: 2.25- 3.5 mm (US size B-1 to E-4)
Project ideas: Projects for this yarn weight are the same as lace weight and fine yarn- baby clothes, socks, and lace. Super fine weight can make projects a bit thicker or less airy, and can help with stitch definition.
Yarn categories in this weight: Sport, Baby
Recommended knit needle size: 3.25- 3.75 mm (US size 3-5)
Recommended crochet hook size: 3.5- 4.5 mm (US size E-4 to 7)
Project ideas: Sport and baby weight yarn is typically used for baby clothes, socks, and denser lace projects. This can also be good for detailed adult hats and headbands. I would not use this for adult scarves as it will take an extremely long time to finish.
Yarn categories in this weight: DK, sport, and light worsted
Recommended knit needle size: 3.75- 4.5 mm (US size 5-7)
Recommended crochet hook size: 4.5- 5.5 mm (US size 7 to I-9)
Project ideas: Light yarn weight can be used for a variety of projects- sweaters, afghans, tank tops, bags, scarves, hats, adult and children’s accessories.
Yarn categories in this weight: Worsted, Aran, Afghan
Recommended knit needle size: 4.5- 5.5 mm (US size 7-9)
Recommended crochet hook size: 5.5- 6.5 mm (US size I-9 to K-10.5)
Project ideas: Like yarn weight 3, this weight can be used for several projects, including accessories, sweaters, and other clothing items. Cotton in this yarn weight is used for dishcloths, bags, and other kitchen and home decor items. Blankets and afghans are also good projects for medium weight. Check out one of most recent patterns using medium yarn, the turtle coaster!
Yarn categories in this weight: Chunky, craft, bulky, rug
Recommended knit needle size: 5.5- 8 mm (US size 9-11)
Recommended crochet hook size: 6.5- 9 mm (US size K-10.5 to M-13)
Project ideas: This weight can be used for several projects, including accessories, sweaters, and other clothing items, in addition to rugs, blankets, and ultra thick jackets.
Yarn categories in this weight: Super bulky, roving
Recommended knit needle size: 8- 12.75 mm (US Size 11-17)
Recommended crochet hook size: 9- 15 mm (US Size M-13 to Q)
Project ideas: Super bulky weight yarn is best for the warmest of items- over sized hats and scarves, ultra warm blankets, and large sweaters/jackets. Big knit projects are currently in style, so there are a lot of patterns to choose from!
Yarn categories in this weight: Jumbo, roving
Recommended knit needle size: 12.75 mm and larger (US size 17 and up)
Recommended crochet hook size: 15 mm and larger (US size Q and up)
Project ideas: This is the largest size available, and traditionally is used for larger projects such as blankets and rugs. However, I have seen some clothing and accessories using this yarn weight as well.
Please keep in mind that this information is a guideline only- the project of choice and pattern may suggest otherwise. Pay attention to gauge and needle/hook size! As always, let your creative juices flow and make things in your own style- let’s learn from each other and make beautiful things!
I’d like to give a special thank you to the Craft Yarn Council for creating the yarn weight graphics seen in this post. For a full downloadable list of these icons, visit their website and see what other amazing resources they have to offer!
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