Biased Guide to Yarn Weights
Ok so learning about yarn weights as a new crafter is surprisingly convoluted. In my experience the recommended needle size on the yarn packaging is often a lie or gaslighting or a misprint - you decide. So below is my personal guide to what needle sizes seem to work with the Declared Yarn Weight - which is often also a lie or gaslighting or a misprint - you decide.
Lace Weight (a.k.a. Spiderweb Dreams)
So thin it’s practically theoretical. You’ll need tiny needles, monk-like patience, and the eyesight of a hawk. The payoff? Airy shawls that make strangers gasp — right before they ask if it’s machine-made. Needle size: As small as they come - 2.5mm
Fingering / Sock Weight (a.k.a. “I swear it’s faster than lace”)
The gateway drug for crocheters and knitters who think they’re ready for “small yarn.” Used for socks, shawls, and proving your worth as a crafter who’s in it for the journey, not the finish line. Needle size: 1.75-4mm
Sport Weight (the Goldilocks of Maybe)
Not too thick, not too thin — and also not used nearly as often as you’d expect. It’s the yarn equivalent of that one coworker everyone forgets about but secretly holds the team together. Needle size: 3.5-5mm
DK (Double Knitting, a.k.a. The Sweet Spot)
Beloved by pattern writers everywhere. Thick enough to show stitch definition, thin enough to pretend you’re delicate. Works for everything, looks good doing it. DK is the main character. Needle size: 4.5-5.5mm
Worsted (Medium, a.k.a. The Default Setting)
When in doubt, grab worsted. It’s the peanut butter of yarn — smooth, reliable, and everyone’s got some buried in a basket somewhere. Great for sweaters, blankets, and your general sense of control. Needle size: 5-6.5mm
Aran (a.k.a. Worsted, but make it chunky)
A bit thicker and heartier — like worsted after it started going to the gym. Great for cables, cozy scarves, and projects that say, “Yes, I am prepared for winter.” Needle size: 5-6.7mm
Bulky (a.k.a. Weekend Warrior)
You’ll finish your project in one sitting! (Or so you think.) Great for instant gratification, questionable gauge accuracy, and hiding mistakes the size of small countries. Needle size: 6.5-8mm
Super Bulky (a.k.a. Yarn or Rope? Hard to Tell.)
Ideal for when you want to crochet or knit an entire blanket before the next episode of your show ends. Produces giant stitches, massive projects, and the faint scent of desperation. Needle size: 8+
Jumbo (a.k.a. Arm-Knitting Chaos)
Who needs needles when you’ve got forearms? Perfect for statement pieces, home decor, or just scaring your pets. Let’s be honest: this isn’t yarn, it’s a lifestyle choice. Needle size: Just use your hands at this point IMO.