Knitting Needle Size Chart + How to Pick the Right Size

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When it comes to beautiful knits, knitting needle size matters! Have you ever seen a number or a metric value (or maybe both) stamped on your needles? These are the codes manufacturers use to tell you how big or small the needles are.

This handy guide is your trusty companion. Bookmark this page and use it whenever you come across a pattern that uses a needle size you’re unfamiliar with.

UPDATED: DECEMBER 18, 2023 BY BRITTANY
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knitting needle sizes

I made this guide to help clear up the questions you may have about knitting needle sizes. Keep in mind, that the size of your knitting needle isn’t only about the yarn it works with – it also affects how your project turns out. If you use a small needle with a thicker yarn, you’ll get a firmer, denser fabric. But if you go for a big knitting needle size with a thinner yarn, your project will have a looser, airier feel.

Here’s a quick overview of the topics we will cover in this article:


What are Common Knitting Needle Sizes?

The size marked on your knitting needle will mostly depend on where it was made. However, there’s a straightforward conversion between the metric size and the US size.

Millimeter sizing is the most precise way to talk about knitting needle sizes because it’s a direct measurement.

But sometimes, you’ll come across patterns that only use a number. That’s where this knitting needle size chart comes to the rescue. You can either memorize it or bookmark it, whichever works best for you. It’ll help you get familiar with knitting needle sizes, both in the US and in metric measurements.

Use this knitting needle conversion chart any time you need to go from US to metric knitting needle sizing:

Common Knitting Needle Size Conversion Chart

Millimeter SizeUS Size
2.25 mm1
2.75 mm2
3.25 mm3
3.50 mm4
3.75 mm5
4.00 mm6
4.50 mm7
5.00 mm8
5.50 mm9
6.00 mm10
6.50 mm10.5
8 mm11
9 mm13
10 mm15
12.75 mm17
15 mm19
19 mm35
25 mm50
For more information or for additional sizes, check out the hooks and needles standards from the Craft Yarn Council.

Why Knitting Needle Size Matters

Different knitting needle sizes create different-sized stitches. Some needles make your stitches big and open, while others make them small and tight. It’s like having a magic wand to control your fabric!

Tension Matters: The size of your stitches affects something called ‘tension.’ If your stitches are too loose, your project might end up floppy and out of shape. On the other hand, if they’re too tight, your work could be stiff and stubborn.

The Gauge Game: When you follow a knitting pattern, it often mentions a ‘gauge.’ Gauge is a fancy word for the number of stitches and rows per inch or centimeter. The right gauge ensures your project turns out the same size as the pattern says. And you want that, right?

By choosing the right knitting needle size, you control your tension, and you can match the pattern’s gauge. That means your finished project will look exactly like the picture in the pattern. No surprises!

Experiment and Learn: Over time, you’ll discover how different needle sizes affect your knitting style. You’ll learn when to use a bigger needle for a lacy shawl or a smaller one for a cozy blanket.

So, remember, those numbers, and millimeters on your knitting needles are your secret weapons. They let you create the perfect tension and gauge for your projects, and over time you’ll get so comfortable with it you won’t even have to think about it.

Understanding Knitting Needle Size Labels

Knitting needle sizes are a simple measurement that shows you the size of the needle itself. These sizes make a big difference in how your projects look and feel.

US vs. Metric Knitting Needle Sizes

So, first things first, there are two main systems for labeling knitting needle sizes: the US system and the metric system.

  • US Sizes: In the US system, you’ll often see knitting needles labeled with numbers (like 6, 7, 8) with “US” in front of it. These numbers represent different sizes, but they do follow an order, so it feels less random.
  • Metric Sizes: In the metric system, knitting needle sizes are measured in millimeters (mm). This one is straightforward. The size tells you exactly how wide the hook is in millimeters.

Now, here’s where it gets a tad tricky – these two systems don’t always match up perfectly. You might find that a US 6 needle is a 4.0mm needle in the metric system.

But don’t sweat it too much. Most knitting patterns will mention both US and metric sizes, so you can use whichever system you’re comfortable with. It’s all about what works for you.

Choosing the Right Knitting Needle Size for Your Project

Alright, let’s get down to it – picking the right knitting needle size is key for your knitting journey. It’s a little more involved than simply looking at the yarn label, but it’s quite easy to learn.

Here’s a simple guide to help you make the perfect choice:

1. Yarn Weight Wisdom: Start by checking out your yarn’s weight. Most yarn labels give it away, using words like lace, fingering, sport, worsted, bulky, or super bulky. In a general sense, each of these yarn weights pairs up with a specific hook size.

2. Sneak a Peek at the Label: Take a quick look at your yarn label – it’s like your yarn’s user manual. It usually suggests a needle size to use. This gives you a solid starting point but isn’t the only size you can use.

3. Project Plans: Think about what you’re crafting. Different projects might call for different needle sizes, even if they’re using the same yarn weight. For example, an airy shawl might need a bigger needle than a tightly stitched pillow.

4. Check the Pattern: If you’re following a knitting pattern (which can be a lifesaver!), look for any specific needle size recommendations. Always stick to what the pattern says, and only modify if you can’t ‘match the gauge with the recommended size.

5. Gauge It Out: Knitting a small test swatch using the recommended needle size. This lets you see if your stitches match what the pattern wants. If they’re too tight, try a bigger needle; if too loose, go a bit smaller. Here’s a really helpful article I wrote about gauge if you’re not sure how to do this.

6. Fabric Feelings: Consider how you want your finished piece to feel. A larger needle with thinner yarn creates an open, airy fabric, while a smaller needle with thicker yarn makes it tighter and denser.

7. Your Knitting Comfort Zone: Your unique knitting style matters. Some folks naturally knit tighter or looser. Go with a needle size that feels comfy and gets you the result you want.

8. Play with Sizes: Don’t be shy to experiment with different knitting needle sizes. Sometimes, a slight change from the recommended size adds a special touch to your work. And it may be required to achieve the gauge you need when following a pattern!

9. Keep Track: Make a little knitting diary or notes about the hook sizes you’ve used for different yarns and projects.

10. Flexibility Rules: If things aren’t working out, don’t hesitate to switch needle sizes mid-project. You can always start over and try another size.

By following these simple steps, and with a little bit of practice, you’ll become a pro at choosing the right knitting size. And remember, practice makes perfect!

Circular or Straight Needles?

If you’re just starting with knitting and unsure about which needles to get, I’d suggest getting three pairs of straight needles: one aluminum, one plastic, and one wooden. You can find more details in my How to Knit in 10 Easy Steps guide, but the main idea is to figure out which material you like working with the most.

If you’re not new to knitting, there’s a simple rule I always follow when deciding between circular or straight needles – just use circulars.

Here’s why:

All the stitches need to fit on the needles at once, and the knitting needle length determines how big your project can be. Most straight needles are 12″ or 14″ long, so it’s impossible to knit a blanket on them.

Circular needles come in various lengths from 9″ to 42″.

Don’t confuse the length with the needle size; they’re different measurements, and most patterns won’t specify the needle length.

With a reliable pair of circular knitting needles, you can work on any project size, and the length won’t limit your creativity. If you want to knit a 4″ wide headband on a pair of 42″ needles, you can!

Eventually, consider investing in a good interchangeable circular needle set. This includes multiple needle sizes and various cord lengths so you can mix and match for any project you’re working on.

When to Use Double-Pointed Needles

Double-pointed needles, or DPN’s, are used primarily for knitting in the round, especially for closing up hat crowns, or for knitting round projects smaller than what your circular needles can handle.

They can be really fiddly to work with so I wouldn’t recommend them for beginner knitters, but it’s a great skill to learn as you progress. This article will teach you all about double-pointed needles when you’re ready.

You might find me using a pair of double-pointed needles on a small swatch, but for the most part, I stick with my trusty circular needles. When you know how to knit magic loop, you can knit any size round with your longer circular needles.

How to Read a Pattern for Knitting Needle Size

First things first, knitting patterns are like your trusty roadmaps in the knitting world. They tell you what to do step by step. Somewhere near the beginning, you’ll find a section that lists all the tools you need. And right there, you’ll spot the needle size.

The pattern might mention the needle sizes in different ways. You could see numbers (like 5.0mm), letters (like US8), or even both (like US8 (5.0mm)).

Once you’ve found the needle size, use that to check your gauge, and use that size throughout your project if your gauge matches. If the gauge doesn’t match, you’ll need to switch to a different needle size and swatch again. Here’s a rule of thumb:

  • If you count fewer stitches per inch, drop down a needle size and swatch again.
  • If you count more stitches per inch, go up a needle size and swatch again.

So, when you’re staring at your next knitting pattern, don’t let those numbers and letters intimidate you. They’re there to guide you.

Knitting Needle Materials and Their Impact

It’s time to explore the world of knitting needle materials and how they can truly impact your knitting experience. Trust me; the material your needle is made of can make a world of difference:

Aluminum Needles: Aluminum Needles are the trusty workhorses of the knitting world. They’re lightweight, smooth, and glide effortlessly through your yarn. Perfect for most projects, these needles are reliable and comfortable to use.

Wooden Needles: Wooden needles add a touch of natural warmth to your knitting. They’re lightweight, gentle on your hands, and provide a comfortable grip. It’s a more “grippy” material, so it’ll hang on to the yarn more than aluminum needles will. If you have trouble with stitches falling off your needles, you might find a wooden needle works better for you.

Plastic Needles: Plastic needles are great for beginners or when you need a cost-effective option. They’re lightweight and easy on your hands. It’s also a “grippy” material so they’re great trainers for beginners who struggle to hold on to the yarn when making stitches.

Impact on Comfort

The material you choose can affect how comfortable your knitting sessions are. So, think about your preferences. Do you like the cool touch of metal, the warmth of wood, or the soft grip of plastic?

Over time, you might find that you develop a personal connection with a certain material, but it’s important to experiment with as many needle materials as you can find to make this connection.

Maintaining Your Knitting Needles

We’ve covered a lot of ground, but there’s one last thing you need to know to keep your knitting needles in tip-top shape.

Cleanliness is Key: Your needles can get dusty or sticky over time, especially if you’ve been working with different yarns. Give them a gentle wipe with a damp cloth or a baby wipe to keep them clean and smooth.

Mind the Material: Different needle materials require different care. Wooden needles might appreciate a bit of conditioning with wood oil to keep them from drying out. Metal needles, on the other hand, usually just need a wipe-down.

Avoid Rust: If you’re using metal needles, be extra careful about moisture. Store them in a dry place, and if they do get wet, make sure to dry them thoroughly.

Store Properly: Speaking of storage, keep your needles organized. A knitting needle case or pouch is perfect for this. Plus, it makes it easier to find the right one when you need it.

Know When to Say Goodbye: Sometimes, needles can wear out over time, especially if you knit a lot. If you notice that a needle has become too rough or uncomfortable to use, it might be time to retire it and replace it with a shiny new one.

Remember, your knitting needles are like your companions on this crafting journey, and taking good care of them ensures they’ll be with you for many more projects to come.

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