Yarn Weights

Yarn weights are a very important part of any yarn-craft. At its basic definition, it is a standardized numerical system to indicate the thickness of the yarn. The scale goes small to large and from 0 to 7.

The icon in the first row is the the most eye-catching indicator of yarn weight, especially on a yarn label. On the label it may have just the icon with the numerical value, or it may also include the title of that category.

The category title is the overarching title of that weight group. The names are right under the icons in this infographic.

The next row is the alternative names for the weight categories.

There may be slight differences within a category's alternative names. For example, there are slight differences between "thread-weight" yarn and "light fingering" yarn, however, they are both classified under weight-0, aka lace weight yarn.

For other categories, the alternate titles might be more commonly used than the official category title. For example, I never hear "superfine yarn" (weight-1) but I do hear "fingering yarn" or "sock yarn" often.

The next row is the suggested hook sizes for that weight of yarn. A smaller yarn will use a smaller hook. The exact hook size will depend on the pattern and desired tightness/looseness of the project.

There is an additional yarn weight that was introduced. This is weight-8 or "hand weight".

SOURCES: Ravelry & Craft Yarn Counsel