Yarn Basics: Weights

Whether you are working from a pattern or designing your own project, the yarn weight and fiber will affect your finished product. When purchasing yarn, the label will give you information pertaining to both weight and fiber. Weight varies from thread to lace to super bulky, while fiber can be anything from wool to cotton to blends. Following is a quick overview of weight and fibers so you can be sure to choose the correct yarn for your project!

Yarn Weight

Yarn comes in a variety of weights and these weights are standardized. Below is a list of yarn weights with accompanying information such as yarn types in the category, recommended needle sizes, and the average number of stitches per 4 inches.

Super fine is the thinnest and lightest weight of yarn. This is also referred to as Lace yarn. The types of yarn which are defined as super fine include sock yarns, baby yarns, and fingering yarns. The recommended needle sizes for this weight of yarn are US 1-3. The average number of stitches per 4 inches is between 27 and 32.



Fine is the next lightest weight of yarn. It is composed of certain types of baby yarns and sport yarns. This weight of yarn is generally used on needles 3-5 size. The average number of stitches per 4 inches is between 23 and 26.



Light is a slightly heavier, but still light weight of yarn. DK and light yarns are the most common yarn types within this weight group. Common needle sizes for this yarn weight are size 5-7. The average number of stitches per 4 inches is between 21 and 24.



Medium weight yarn is also commonly known as worsted weight. It is a moderate weight yarn, and it is used in a great variety of projects. Yarn types within this weight are aran, worsted, and afghan. Common needle sizes for medium/worsted weight yarn are size 7-9. The average number of stitches per 4 inches is between 16 and 20.



Bulky weight yarn is heavy yarn, many times used for larger projects that work up quickly. Scarves, hats, mittens, and some afghans are all projects worked in bulky weight yarn. Yarn types within this weight include chunky, craft, and rug yarns. Common needle sizes for bulky yarn are size 9-11. The average number of stitches per 4 inches is between 12 and 15.



Super bulky is one of the bulkiest yarn weights, used for extremely thick projects such as rugs, thick afghans, scarves, etc. Bulky and roving yarns are included within this yarn weight. Needle sizes for bulky yarns are 11 and up. Some needles used to make things such as bath mats and welcome mats are size 50! They are as large as broom handles. The average number of stitches per 4 inches is between 6 and 11.



This is just an overview of different yarn weights. Your pattern will give you some direction as to the weight of yarn and needle size that would generally be appropriate. Do not forget to check your gauge!