Choosing the right yarn weight makes more of a difference than you might think, it affects the drape, feel, and overall look of your finished piece. Here we guide you through the most common yarn weights, from delicate lace to wonderfully chunky textures, so you can find the perfect match for your project.
Lace
A very fine and lightweight yarn, ideal for delicate lacework and airy projects.
Gauge: 32–40 sts = 10 cm
Knitting needles: approx. 2–3 mm
Crochet hook: approx. 1.5–2.5 mm
Perfect for: shawls, lace knitting, lightweight garments
Feel: delicate and fluid.
Fingering
A thin and versatile yarn, commonly used for socks and baby garments.
Gauge: 26–32 sts = 10 cm
Knitting needles: approx. 2–3 mm
Crochet hook: approx. 2–3 mm
Perfect for: socks, baby garments, lightweight sweaters
Feel: light with excellent stitch definition
Sport
Sport weight yarn sits between fingering and DK in thickness. It creates lightweight yet warm garments with beautiful stitch definition.
Gauge: approx. 23–26 sts = 10 cm
Knitting needles: approx. 3–3.5 mm
Crochet hook: approx. 3–3.5 mm
Perfect for: baby garments, lightweight sweaters, cardigans, and accessories
Feel: soft, smooth, and light
DK (Double Knit)
One of the most versatile yarn weights – balanced and easy to work with.
Gauge: 21–24 sts = 10 cm
Knitting needles: approx. 3.5–4 mm
Crochet hook: approx. 3.5–4.5 mm
Perfect for: sweaters, cardigans, children’s garments
Feel: soft and comfortably warm
Worsted
Slightly thicker than DK, offering more structure and warmth.
Gauge: 18–20 sts = 10 cm
Knitting needles: approx. 4–5 mm
Crochet hook: approx. 4.5–5.5 mm
Perfect for: everyday garments, hats, scarves
Feel: soft and stable
Aran
A fuller and warmer yarn with clear stitch definition.
Gauge: 16–18 sts = 10 cm
Knitting needles: approx. 4.5–5.5 mm
Crochet hook: approx. 5–6 mm
Perfect for: textured patterns, cable sweaters, classic sweaters
Feel: warm and structured
Bulky
A thick yarn that works up quickly and creates a warm, textured fabric.
Gauge:
12–15 sts = 10 cm (knitting)
8–11 sts = 10 cm (crochet)
Knitting needles: approx. 6–8 mm
Crochet hook: approx. 6–9 mm
Perfect for: hats, scarves, blankets
Feel: soft and voluminous
Chunky / Super Bulky
Very thick yarn for maximum volume and warmth.
Gauge: 7–11 sts = 10 cm
Knitting needles: approx. 8–12 mm
Crochet hook: approx. 8–12 mm
Perfect for: statement pieces, oversized knits, large blankets
Feel: bold and extra warm
A little reminder!
Gauge and recommended needle or hook sizes are helpful guidelines, but your hands always have the final say. We all knit and crochet a little differently, so making a swatch first can make a big difference in fit and feel.