Knitting needles come in many different sizes. Those sizes, along with the needle material, yarn size, and fiber, determine your gauge.
Some knitters refer to American knitting needle sizes, and some knitters refer to metric knitting needle sizes. American knitting needle sizes are numbered, but those numbers are just a label; they aren’t an actual measurement. Metric needle sizes are the needle’s diameter in millimeters. The needles are the same! You just need an easy to reference knitting needles sizes conversion chart.
Free PDF Download
In addition to the conversion chart image below, I’ve created a PDF that includes room to track your inventory of different needle types in each size. If you have needles outside of a cohesive set, this may be helpful to keep tabs on your needle stash.
Save it on your phone or print it out to easily keep track of which needles you have and which ones you (might) still want or need.
Knitting Needles Sizes Conversion Chart
Other Knitting Needle Size Conversion Tools
Knitting needles are usually marked with their US and metric sizes. But if yours have rubbed off or if the fine print is hard on your eyes, you can get a needle gauge.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
| Susan Bates 14099 Knit-Chek for Knitting Needle, Pink, 3 by 5-1/2-Inch |
$4.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
| Clover Swatch Ruler & Needle Gauge, White |
$7.96 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
| HiyaHiya Knitting Needle Gauge-Sheep |
$8.50 | Buy on Amazon |
Needle gauges tend to include both the US and metric sizes. These gauges are often part of a gauge ruler, and the ChiaoGoo needle sets (which I highly recommend – they are the best needled sets) include them. If you’re looking for a needle gauge that is not part of a ruler, I think this one from CocoKnits is adorable.
Final Thoughts
Gauge may be annoying, but it is essential to master it if you want to make items that are a certain dimension.
- Make sure you know your needle size.
- Make sure you know how to size your stitches.
- Block your swatch.
- Measure your swatch.
Happy knitting!
