Types of Yarn and Recommended Crochet Hooks and Gauges

There are many categories for yarn and types of yarn that fall into each category. Yarn weights are labeled from 0 to 6 with 0 being the thinnest of yarns and 6 being the most bulky. There are many different types of yarn in each category. The table below shows a general gauge for each of the yarn weights along with some recommended crochet hooks to use with that type of yarn. The information in the chart is the most commonly used gauges and crochet hook sizes for each yarn category. You can always use a crochet hook or create a gauge that is not listed on the chart.

Yarn Weight Symbol lace super fine fine light medium bulky super bulky
Types of Yarn In Category Fingering, 10-count crochet thread Sock, Fingering, Baby Sport, Baby DK, Light Worsted Worsted, Afghan, Aran Chunky, Craft, Rug Bulky, Roving
Gauge in Single Crochet 4″ (10 cm) 32-42 double crochets 21-32 sts 16-20 sts 12-17 sts 11-14 sts 8-11 sts 5-9 sts
Recommended Hook Sizes (metric) Steel 1.6-1.4 mm 2.25-3.5 mm 3.5-4.5 mm 4.5-5.5 mm 5.5-6.5 mm 6.5-9 mm 9 mm and up
Recommended Hook Sizes (U.S.) Steel 6, 7, 8 or B-1 B-1 to E-4 E-4 to 7 7 to I-9 I-9 to K-10 1/2 K-10 1/2 to M-13 M-13 and up

When you buy yarn a recommended crochet hook size and gauge may be listed on the packaging. If you are following a crochet pattern, it may also have the recommended crochet hook size and gauge in it.

This information was requested by a Crochet Spot Newsletter Subscriber!
If you would like to receive the free newsletter too, just fill out the orange box at the top of this page.

Share and Enjoy:
  • Digg
  • Sphinn
  • del.icio.us
  • Facebook
  • Mixx
  • Google

Similar Posts

5 Comments

  1. Harold says:

    Thanks for the info. I have always wondered about this, now I know!! ;-)

  2. Rachel says:

    You’re welcome Harold! Sometimes I get confused with all these names, I need a chart to refer to myself :D

  3. [...] chose to use. The smaller the hook the easier it is for it to pierce the fabric. (Learn more about types of yarn and recommended crochet hooks) Optional: If your hook is not able to pierce through the fabric you may use a darning needle or [...]

  4. Shannon says:

    Rachel, I have recently gotten into wrapping edges, for a more profesional “softer” look. What yarn would you suggest for wrapping?

    Thanks for your last response.. it worked! :) YEA!!

  5. Rachel says:

    Hey Shannon, I’m not too familiar with wrapping edges, so I don’t think I’m the best person to ask for a yarn suggestion for that.

Leave a Reply