Yarn Weight Comparison
Yarn standards are general categories that describe how thick a yarn is. For machine knitters, they help you estimate which yarns might work on different machine gauges. Treat them as a starting point only: fiber, twist, construction, and your machine setup all matter. Always swatch when possible.
Looking for a quick definition? See the Yarn Standards glossary entry.
Need to compare ball-band yarn to cone yarn? Try the Yarn Comparison Calculator.
Note: The “yarn types” terms are different in different parts of the world.
| Symbol | Category | Yarn Types | Yards Per Pound | 4" (10cm) | Machine/Pitch | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| | Lace | Lace Fingering 2-ply 10-count crochet thread | 4000 - 10,000 ypp | 33-40 sts | Standard 4.5mm (stranded) | More detailsUK: 1 ply AUS: 2 ply Hand Knitting Needle Size: 1.5 - 2.2mm |
| | Super fine | Sock Fingering Baby 3-ply | 3000-4000 ypp | 27-32 sts | Standard 4.5mm (stranded) | More detailsUK: 2 ply AUS: 3 ply Hand Knitting Needle Size: 1.25 - 3.5mm |
| | Fine | Sport Baby 4-ply | 2000-3000 ypp | 23-26 sts | Standard 4.5mm / Double Bed | More detailsUK: 4 ply AUS: 5 ply Hand Knitting Needle Size: 3.5 - 4.5mm |
| | Light | DK Light worsted | 1000-2000 ypp | 21-24 sts | Mid-Gauge 6.0 | 6.5 | 7mm / Standard 4.5mm | More detailsUK: DK AUS: 8 ply Hand Knitting Needle Size: 4.5 - 5.5mm |
| | Medium | Worsted Afghan Aran | 800-1000 ypp | 16-20 sts | Mid-Gauge 6.0 | 6.5 | 7mm / Bulky 9mm | More detailsUK: Aran AUS: 10 ply Hand Knitting Needle Size: 5.5 - 6.5mm |
| | Bulky | Chunky Craft Rug | 500-800 ypp | 12-15 sts | Bulky 9mm | More detailsUK: Chunky AUS: 12 ply Hand Knitting Needle Size: 6.5 - 9mm |
| | Super Bulky | Super bulky Roving | 100-500 ypp | 6-11 sts | May not be appropriate | More detailsUK: Super Chunky AUS: 14 ply Hand Knitting Needle Size: 9mm + |