Yarn Weight from Gauge Calculator

How to use

1. Measure or read your stitch gauge as stitches per 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette.
2. Enter that number.
3. Read the yarn-weight category it falls into, with the standard gauge range for that weight.
4. Use it to pick a substitute yarn, or to sanity-check a mystery yarn against a pattern.

Good to know

• Gauge is the most reliable weight signal because it reflects how the yarn actually knits up, not just its thickness on the ball.
• The Sport and DK ranges overlap slightly (23–24 sts); a gauge there is reported as the finer weight (Sport). Either can work — swatch to be sure.
• This uses knitting gauge in stockinette. Crochet gauge runs differently, so treat the result as a rough guide for crochet.

FAQ

Why use gauge instead of just the ball band?

Ball bands sometimes lack a weight category, or you have wound-off yarn with no band. Gauge is measured from the yarn itself, so it works even when the label is gone.

My gauge sits between two weights — which is right?

The categories are rough bands and the Sport/DK ranges overlap. When a gauge could be either, this calculator reports the finer weight; swatch with your needles to confirm which suits your fabric.

Is this knitting or crochet gauge?

Knitting gauge in stockinette, stitches per 4 inches. Crochet stitches are taller and wider, so a crochet gauge maps to weight differently — use this as a guide only.