Yarn weights

The chart provides a general guide to the different names used for the same yarn weight, based on its thickness. However, yarns don't always fit neatly into these categories, and there’s often disagreement about how names align across regions. That said, the chart offers a helpful reference for understanding where a yarn weight falls on the scale. To ensure your yarn will work for a particular project, it’s always a good idea to knit a gauge swatch.

This list isn’t exhaustive, and there are many more names for yarn weights, both within these regions and across the globe.

The Craft Yarn Council is based in the US.

A yarn is formed from fibres. The fibres can originate from animals (e.g. the fleece of sheep, goats, alpacas), plants (e.g. cotton, bamboo) or they can be synthesised (e.g. nylon, polyester). They all have their place as their uses vary dependent on their qualities. Choice of yarn often comes down to individual preference and wallet size.

Fibres, once processed appropriately, are spun into yarns. They can be comprised of just one type of fibre or they can contain mixed fibres. When the twised strands of fibres are grouped together they are known as "plies". The more plies, generally, the thicker the yarn.

Yarn "weight"

Possibly the most confusing term in the yarn world! Weight refers not only the weight of the ball or skein by which you can purchase the yarn, but is also used to denote the thickness of the yarn. Just to muddy the waters even more, the same yarn weight can have different names depending on where you are in the world. But don't worry, if you are not familiar with the "weights" on balls of yarns, just ask! The yarn community is nothing if not friendly and helpful!

Sign up to the newsletter and get this handy guide, which provides a comparison of yarn weights in different parts of the world.