Yarn Weight Chart: Lace to Jumbo
All CYC categories with needle size, run length and gauge
| CYC | Yarn Weight | Run Length (m/100g) | Needle Size (mm) | Gauge (10×10 cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Lace | 400+ | 1.5–2.25 | 33–40 |
| 1 | Fingering | 350–400 | 2.25–3.25 | 27–32 |
| 2 | Sport | 250–350 | 3.25–3.75 | 23–26 |
| 3 | DK | 200–250 | 3.75–4.5 | 21–24 |
| 4 | Worsted | 120–200 | 4.5–5.5 | 16–20 |
| 5 | Bulky / Aran | 60–120 | 5.5–8 | 12–15 |
| 6 | Super Bulky | 40–60 | 8–12 | 7–11 |
| 7 | Jumbo | < 40 | 12+ | 1–6 |
All values are guidelines, the yarn label is always the most reliable source.
Yarn weights don't have to be confusing. The CYC system (Craft Yarn Council) divides all yarns into 8 categories, from Lace (0) to Jumbo (7). You'll find the CYC symbol on most yarn labels — a small skein icon with a number.
Run length is often more useful than skein weight: a 50 g skein of Lace yarn can hold over 400 m, while a Bulky skein of the same weight may only give you 60 m. When substituting a yarn, always compare run lengths — not just the weight category.
The gauge values in the table are guidelines. Your personal tension may differ, which is exactly why swatching before every project matters. A swatch is your insurance policy against a finished piece that doesn't fit.
Patterns published in the UK or US use terms like Worsted, Aran, or Fingering that don't have a direct German equivalent. The CYC numbers in the table are your bridge — once you know the number, any yarn in that category will work.
Looking for a substitute for a specific project?
→ Find a yarn substituteFrequently Asked Questions
What does CYC mean?
CYC stands for Craft Yarn Council, the organisation that created the standard yarn weight system. It classifies yarns into 8 categories from 0 (Lace) to 7 (Jumbo). You'll often find the CYC symbol on yarn labels as a small skein icon with a number inside.
What needle size should I use for DK yarn?
DK (Double Knitting) works best with needles between 3.5 and 4.5 mm. Always knit a gauge swatch first, you may need to go up or down a size to match your pattern's tension.
What is run length and why does it matter?
Run length tells you how many metres of yarn are on a skein, regardless of weight. When substituting a yarn, try to match the run length as closely as possible, otherwise you may need more or fewer skeins than the pattern calls for.
How do I figure out which yarn weight I have?
Check the label first, the recommended needle size is usually printed there. If the label is missing: cast on 10 stitches with 4 mm needles and measure over 10 cm. Match your stitch count to the gauge column in the table above.
Can I substitute one yarn for another?
Yes, as long as the gauge and fibre content are similar. Yarn weight alone isn't enough: two Worsted yarns can have very different run lengths. Our finder compares all the relevant properties for you.