Yarn Weights Chart

A Free Printable Yarn Weights Chart for Knitters and Crocheters

Not sure what weight your yarn is? This free printable yarn weights chart is exactly what you need. Based on the standard yarn weights from the Craft Yarn Council, it gives you a clear, at-a-glance reference for every yarn weight – from lace all the way through to jumbo – as well as the weight descriptions for each of the ColourSpun yarns.

Why You Need a Yarn Weights Chart

Different countries describe yarn weights differently, which can make substituting yarns confusing. For example, what the UK calls DK, the US often calls light worsted. As a result, this yarn weights chart uses the UK terms that ColourSpun yarns follow, making it easy to compare weights across different brands and countries. Whether you’re substituting a yarn, following a pattern from another country, or simply trying to identify an unlabelled ball from your stash, this chart is a handy reference to keep close by.

How to Measure Your Yarn Weight Using WPI

If you’re not sure of your yarn’s weight, you can measure it using wraps per inch (WPI). To do this, you’ll need a WPI tool or a flat ruler marked in inches:

First, tie or tape the end of your yarn to the tool or ruler
Next, gently wrap the yarn over exactly one inch
Make sure the wraps are touching but not overlapping, and neither stretched nor loose
Finally, count the wraps and refer to your yarn weights chart to identify the weight

However, keep in mind that this method works best for smooth yarns. For fluffy yarns like mohair or textured novelty yarns, this method gives less accurate results. You’ll also notice that some WPI counts overlap on the yarn weights chart, because yarn density affects the final result.

What’s Included?

Standard yarn weights based on the Craft Yarn Council guidelines
ColourSpun yarn weight descriptions for easy reference
WPI guide to help you identify unlabelled yarn
Single-page, print-friendly PDF – keep it in your project bag or pin it up in your craft space

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