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Confused by knitting needle sizes? Learn how to convert Metric, US & UK sizes easily with charts, tips, and tools in this complete guide from KnitPro.
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Knitting Needle Sizes Explained: Metric, US, and UK Conversions Do you often get confused about what the terms US 6" or "UK 8" mean? You are not alone if you are searching for patterns, knitting needles, and get stuck with these terms. Different countries use distinct standards, which can sometimes become confusing for many. Metric (mm), US, and UK sizes are three sizing systems that are used worldwide, and this blog will explain them clearly. Does Knitting Needle Size Matter? The size that you see on the needles is not just the numbers; the sizes will determine your stitch size, tension, and how your fabric will look after the finishing touch. Using the correct needle is crucial in your project. Let's check out some of the reasons below: ●You will get a correct gauge, which means the number of stitches and rows per inch are according to the pattern. ●Your fabric fits well, and it appears professional. ●Do you know that your fabric's texture and drape are also impacted? Consider the right needle size. When you work with a smaller single-pointed knitting needle size, you get tighter stitches, while with larger ones, your fabric would be looser. So, you can imagine the importance of needle size in your project. Explore Main Knitting Needle Sizes
Knitters use different systems to label needle sizes. Let's discuss this in brief: ●Metric (mm) ●US (United States) sizes ●UK (United Kingdom/Canadian) sizes Let’s take a closer look at each of them: 1. Metric (MM) This term means measuring the diameter of the needle in millimeters (mm). This system is popular in Europe and Asia and is used widely across the globe. For example, if you are using fixed circular needles from KnitPro in Symfonie, Nova, or Zing 4.00 mm,
it will tell you the diameter of the needle shaft. This is most precise and adapted to modern patterns. 2. US Needle Sizes The US system uses a numbering method that increases as the needle diameter increases. However, it’s not based on a consistent pattern or formula. Let's check out: US size metric equivalent US SizeMetric Size US 1 2.25 mm US 6 4.00 mm US 10 6.0 mm 3. UK System It is also known as the imperial system, which runs in reverse: the larger the number, the smaller the needle. UK Size Metric Equivalent UK 14 2.0 mm UK 8 4.0 mm UK 0 7.5 mm This system is outdated now, and you only find it in vintage British patterns. However, it's still worth knowing how to convert these sizes if you're working from older designs. Read our blog to learn the ultimate guide to knitting needles.
Conversion Chart: Metric, US, and UK Here is a handy chart for you to explore: Metric MM US Size UK Size 2.0 mm 0 14 2.25 mm 1 13 2.5 mm 1.5 – 2.75 mm 2 12 3.0 mm 2.5 11 3.25 mm 3 10 3.5 mm 4 – 3.75 mm 5 9 4.0 mm 6 8 4.5 mm 7 7 5.0 mm 8 6 5.5 mm 9 5 6.0 mm 10 4 6.5 mm 10.5 3 7.0 mm – 2
7.5 mm – 1 8.0 mm 11 0 9.0 mm 13 00 10.0 mm 15 000 How to read Needle Sizes on Packaging? You generally find the two-numbering system, whether you use double pointed knitting needles or single-pointed ones. The larger number indicates the metric system (mm), like 70 or 80, while the smaller one is 10 or 12, corresponding to the US system. Here are some points to consider: ●MM size is the most prominent one in KnitPro needles; you generally find the metric system for universal understanding. ●However, some brands color-code labels directly on the needles. Tools that Help To Measure Knitting Needles Sizes When the marking on your needle wears off, in that case, it is difficult to find the actual size of the needle. Let's check out some of the tools: ●Needle Viewer Size from KnitPro helps you to determine the needle size, along with measuring the gauge and the row height.
●Another equipment from KnitPro is the Needle and Crochet View Sizer, which measures the crochet hook and needle sizes. Also, you can use it for the gauge and the yarn cutter. Knitting needle sizes in the US, UK, and metric systems are not that difficult to understand. Any pattern, from anywhere in the world, can be followed with confidence once you know how each system functions and how to switch between them. You can knit more efficiently and confidently with the help of KnitPro's premium quality knitting needle sets. Summary: Confused by knitting needle sizes? Learn to convert Metric, US, and UK needle sizes with charts, tips, and tools. Find out how to choose the right needle for your yarn with KnitPro in our blog.