Standard Yarn Weight Chart

Yarn comes in various thicknesses, and these thicknesses are organized into categories that are called weights. You can use the standard yarn weight chart below to find the recommended hook sizes for each yarn weight. This way, your next crochet project will come out the size you intended.

Standard Yarn Weight Chart - Free Download

If you’re diving into the world of yarn, you’ve probably seen all those yarn weight labels and felt a little overwhelmed—don’t worry, we’ve all been there! A Standard Yarn Weight Chart can save your sanity and make picking the right yarn a total breeze.

Yarn Weight Chart Download

This handy chart breaks down all the weights, from lace to jumbo, so you know exactly what you’re working with (and what crochet hook or knitting needles you’ll need).

Plus, I’ve got a free download for you—so you can keep it handy on your phone, tablet, or print it out and stick it in your project bag. No more guessing or stressing when starting a new pattern!

Whether you’re a newbie crocheter or a seasoned yarn hoarder, this chart is a total game changer. Grab your free copy now and thank me later when your projects come out perfect every time!

Click Here to Grab Your Free Yarn Weight Chart Download!

Yarn Weight Categories

To help crocheters select the correct yarn for their projects, the Craft Yarn Council has set up a system of guidelines manufacturers use to categorize their yarn. 

The Craft Yarn Council has assigned numbers and names to each yarn weight category. The lightest yarn weight is called lace yarn and is given the number "0." The largest classification of yarn is called jumbo yarn and is given the number "7."

The symbol weight yarn chart is helpful because you can use it to determine which weight of yarn you will need for either your hook size or the type of project you choose to crochet. 

Standard Yarn Weight Chart

How is Yarn Measured?

Ever wonder how yarn is measured? It's not as complicated as it sounds, but there are a few things to know so you don't end up with the wrong stuff. Yarn is usually measured by weight (like skeins or balls) and by length (yards or meters).

You'll often see labels with something like "50g, 120 yards," which tells you how much yarn you're getting and how far it'll go. But here's the kicker—thicker yarns (like bulky) give you less yardage than thinner ones (like fingering) even if they weigh the same!

Yarn is also categorized by "weight," which doesn't mean pounds but rather how thick or thin it is (think lace, worsted, jumbo, etc.). So next time you're shopping, just check the label, and you'll look like a total pro!

Tip: Yarn manufacturers have come up with a system to measure yarn. They have determined that a yarn's weight should be measured by its thickness or diameter. To do this they measure a yarn strand using WPI or wraps per inch. 

Yarn Substitution Made Easy with Weight Charts

Ever been working on a pattern and realized the recommended yarn is discontinued, out of stock, or just not in your budget? That’s where a yarn weight chart becomes your best friend! By checking the weight category of the original yarn (like worsted or DK), you can find a substitute that’s super close in thickness, ensuring your project turns out just as the designer intended.

The standard yarn weight chart helps you match not only the weight but also the yardage, so you don’t run out halfway through.

Substitution also gives you the freedom to experiment with different fiber types or colors while staying confident it’ll still work.

Just be sure to swatch (ugh, I know), because even with a perfect match, some fibers behave a little differently.

With a yarn weight chart in hand, switching things up becomes easy and stress-free!

How to Pick the Right Crochet Hook for Any Yarn

Picking the right crochet hook for your yarn doesn’t have to be intimidating—it’s actually pretty simple once you know the basics. The first step is to look at the yarn label, which usually recommends a hook size that works best for that specific yarn weight. 

For example, lighter yarns like fingering or sport work well with smaller hooks (like 2.25mm to 4mm), while chunkier yarns, like bulky or super bulky, need larger hooks (6mm and up).

But don’t stop there—think about what kind of project you’re making.

Want tighter stitches for a sturdy basket? Go down a hook size. Prefer a softer, drapier blanket? Size up a bit!

Quick Tip:

It’s also helpful to swatch (even though it’s not everyone’s favorite) to see how the hook and yarn work together before committing.

And if you’re experimenting with different fibers, like cotton or alpaca, remember they might behave differently than standard acrylic. With a little practice and the right hook, you’ll be crocheting like a pro in no time!

Have Questions? Join My Crochet Guru Facebook Group!

I hope this article was helpful! If you have any additional questions, feel free to join my Crochet Guru Facebook Group. This group is for you to share pictures, ask questions, and help each other out!