What is DK weight yarn?
DK ("double knitting") is a light, category 3 yarn, slightly thinner than worsted. Here's its gauge, needle size, what to make with it, and how it compares.
By Sofia AkramiKnyt Co-founder and editor
DK weight yarn, short for "double knitting", is a light, category 3 yarn that sits just below worsted in thickness. It knits to about 21–24 stitches per 4 inches on 3.75–4.5 mm (US 5–7) needles. Popular in the UK and Europe, DK is a versatile mid-light weight that gives good stitch definition with a lighter finished fabric than worsted.
DK weight at a glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Category number | 3 (Light) |
| Also called | Light worsted |
| Knit gauge | 21–24 sts / 4 in (stockinette) |
| Recommended needle | 3.75–4.5 mm (US 5–7) |
| Recommended crochet hook | 4.5–5.5 mm (US 7 to I-9) |
| Best for | Sweaters, cardigans, hats, baby clothes, amigurumi |
Source: Craft Yarn Council Standard Yarn Weight System.
What to make with DK weight
DK is a favourite for garments with good drape (cardigans, jumpers, lightweight hats) and for baby and children's clothing, where worsted can feel bulky. It's also widely used for amigurumi and homeware. In UK patterns especially, DK is one of the default weights you'll meet constantly.
DK vs worsted (and why the number helps)
DK (category 3) is slightly thinner than worsted (category 4). The difference is small but real: substitute one for the other and your gauge (and therefore your finished size) will shift. This is exactly why the category number on the label matters more than the name. A label marked "3" is DK-class; "4" is worsted-class. → Full yarn weights chart
In practice, some "heavy DK" and "light worsted" yarns blur the line: always knit a gauge swatch when it matters.
Frequently asked questions
What is DK weight yarn?
DK ("double knitting") is a light, category-3 yarn slightly thinner than worsted, knitting to about 21–24 stitches per 4 inches on 3.75–4.5 mm (US 5–7) needles.
What does DK stand for?
"Double knitting", a traditional British term for this mid-light weight. It does not mean the yarn is used for double-knitting (the two-sided technique).
What number is DK weight yarn?
Category 3 ("Light") in the standard yarn weight system.
Can I substitute DK for worsted?
Not directly: DK is thinner, so it changes gauge and size. You can sometimes hold DK doubled or adjust needle size, but always swatch and check gauge first.
What needle size for DK yarn?
3.75–4.5 mm (US 5–7) is the recommended range; adjust to match your pattern's stated gauge.
Co-founder and editor of Knyt. Avid knitter!
