Yarn Terms Explained: Your Simple Guide to Knitting and Crochet Lingo
Ever picked up a knitting or crochet pattern and felt like it was written in another language? You’re not alone. The world of yarn crafts comes with its own special set of abbreviations, phrases, and technical jargon, commonly called yarn terms, that can feel overwhelming at first.
The good news? Once you understand these yarn terms, patterns and instructions become much easier to follow, your confidence grows, and your finished projects turn out exactly as you planned.
If you’re new to yarn crafts, you may also enjoy reading The Ultimate Yarn Crafts Guide for a complete beginner-friendly foundation with tips, techniques, and inspiration.
Why Should You Learn Yarn Terms?
Think of learning yarn terms as getting the keys to unlock every project you’ll ever make. Here’s why they matter:
- Read Patterns Easily – Abbreviations like k, p (knit, purl) or sc, dc (single crochet, double crochet) are the building blocks of your project.
- Choose the Right Yarn – Understanding terms like Worsted, Bulky, or DK ensures your project drapes, feels, and wears as intended.
- Get the Correct Size – Gauge measurements help you avoid sweaters that fit your cat instead of you.
- Use Your Yarn Correctly – Knowing the difference between a hank and a skein prevents tangles and wasted time.
- Improve Your Skills – Terms like blocking or frogging are part of every yarn crafter’s vocabulary.
Learning these basics removes frustration and makes knitting or crocheting much more enjoyable.
Key Yarn Terms for Knitting and Crochet
Below is a handy glossary of the most common yarn terms, explained simply for beginners. Bookmark this page or print it for quick reference.
Abbreviations
- Knitting: k (knit), p (purl), yo (yarn over), ssk (slip, slip, knit), k2tog (knit two together).
- Crochet: ch (chain), sl st (slip stitch), sc (single crochet), hdc (half double crochet), dc (double crochet).
💡 Tip: Many pattern books include an abbreviation chart — keep it handy for quick checks.
Learn more: Knitting Abbreviation List – The Spruce Crafts
Yarn Weight
Describes the thickness of the yarn and affects your needle/hook size and finished fabric.
If you want a complete breakdown of all 8 standard categories (0–7) with project ideas, gauge charts, and yarn suggestions, check out our full guide here:
👉 Unraveling Yarn Weights: Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Yarn
| Yarn Weight | Common Name | Hook Size | Needle Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Lace | 1.6–1.75 mm | 000–1 US |
| 1 | Fingering/Sock | 2.25–3.25 mm | 1–3 US |
| 2 | Sport | 3.5–4 mm | 3–5 US |
| 3 | DK (Double Knit) | 4–4.5 mm | 5–7 US |
| 4 | Worsted/Aran | 5–5.5 mm | 7–9 US |
| 5 | Bulky | 6–6.5 mm | 9–11 US |
| 6 | Super Bulky | 8 mm+ | 11–17 US |
Gauge
The number of stitches and rows per inch (or cm) in your project. Matching the pattern’s gauge ensures your finished piece is the correct size.
Yarn Formats
- Skein – Oblong-shaped yarn, can be pulled from the center or outside.
- Hank – Twisted loop that must be wound before use.
- Ball – Round yarn, often smaller quantities.
- Cake – Flat-bottomed center-pull yarn, often made with a winder.
Fiber Types
- Natural: Wool, cotton, alpaca, silk, bamboo.
- Synthetic: Acrylic, nylon, polyester.
- Blends: Combines the best of both worlds for durability and feel.
Superwash
A treatment for wool that makes it machine-washable without felting.
Blocking
Shaping and setting stitches after a project is complete by steaming, wetting, or spraying and pinning into place.
Frogging
Ripping back stitches (because you “rip-it, rip-it”).
WIP
“Work In Progress” — a project you haven’t finished yet.
Additional Yarn Terms to Know
- Ply – The number of strands twisted together to make the yarn.
- Dye Lot – The batch in which the yarn was dyed. Always buy enough yarn from the same lot to ensure consistent color.
- Staple Length – The length of individual fibers in a yarn; affects softness and strength.
- Twist – The direction and tightness of the yarn spin; affects drape and wear.
- Notions – Small tools like stitch markers, tapestry needles, or row counters.
Where to Learn More
- Check your yarn label for weight, fiber content, care instructions, and dye lot.
- Bookmark online knitting & crochet glossaries with images.
- Join crafting communities — forums and Facebook groups are great for learning new lingo.
In Summary
Learning yarn terms isn’t just about memorizing definitions — it’s about understanding the tools, materials, and language that make knitting and crochet more enjoyable. Whether you’re deciphering a complex lace chart or choosing yarn for your first scarf, these terms give you the knowledge to work with confidence.
So grab your hooks, needles, and yarn, and start speaking the language of your craft!
