04. Yarn weight guide: Find the perfect yarn for your knitting & crochet projects | Wolly Roger

Hello, knitters, and raise the anchor!

Today, I’d like to talk about the different yarn weights you can find at Wolly Roger. For our categorization, we use a classic system that is used by most brands.

📏 The Classification System: Lace, DK, Bulky, etc. Nevertheless, every shop, country, or brand can have its own classification. There is no universal consensus to this day. I therefore recommend that you always check the recommended needle size AND the gauge to ensure you make the right choice for your project. And whether you are a knitter or a crocheter, you are welcome here: everyone is included! ❤️

 

Lace Category

 

🧶 Knitting: between 33 and 40 stitches in stockinette stitch

🧵 Crochet: between 32 to 42 double crochets

📐 Recommended Needles: 1.5 mm to 2.25 mm A very fine yarn, ideal for airy projects, lace, and light shawls.

 

Fingering Category

 

🧶 Knitting: between 27 and 32 stitches

🧵 Crochet: between 21 and 32 double crochets

📐 Needles: 2.25 mm to 3.25 mm A great classic for socks, baby clothes, and light sweaters.

 

Sport Category

 

🧶 Knitting: 23 to 26 stitches

🧵 Crochet: 16 to 20 double crochets

📐 Needles / Hook: 3.5 mm to 4.5 mm Perfect for intermediate or mid-season garments.

 

DK (Double Knit / Light Worsted) Category

 

🧶 Knitting: 21 to 24 stitches

🧵 Crochet: 12 to 27 double crochets

📐 Needles: 3.75 mm to 4.5 mm

📐 Hook: 4.5 mm to 5.5 mm Versatile, suitable for almost all projects!

 

Aran Category (Medium)

 

🧶 Knitting: 16 to 20 stitches

🧵 Crochet: 11 to 14 double crochets

📐 Needles: 4.5 mm to 5.5 mm

📐 Hook: 5.5 mm to 6.5 mm Ideal for warm knits, sweaters, and blankets.

 

Bulky Category (Chunky)

 

🧶 Knitting: 12 to 15 stitches

🧵 Crochet: 8 to 11 double crochets

📐 Needles: 5.5 mm to 8 mm

📐 Hook: 6.5 mm to 9 mm Quick to knit, perfect for winter projects.

 

Super Bulky Category (Super Chunky)

 

🧶 Knitting: 7 to 12 stitches

🧵 Crochet: 7 to 9 double crochets

📐 Needles: 8 mm to 12 mm

📐 Hook: 9 mm to 15 mm Guaranteed "cozy" effect and express results!

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🧶 Why this classification is not universal

Every brand can define its own categories: a DK here might be similar to a Sport yarn elsewhere. The safest bet is therefore always to check the gauge and needle recommendations.

🧭 How to choose the right yarn weight?

- Check your pattern's instructions

- Think about the desired finished fabric (drapey, dense, airy...)

- Make a swatch to confirm your choice

✅ In summary Knowing yarn weights allows you to:

- Choose the most suitable yarn for your project

- Get your measurements right and avoid bad surprises

- Adapt your stitches or tools with confidence

📌 Note for crocheters: Crochet measurements are expressed in French terminology ("brides"). If you are using patterns in English, remember to check whether they are US or UK terms, as this changes everything!

Hopla, Bis bàll!

Jessica