Double knit (DK) yarn
The most common weight in UK patterns. Acrylic and acrylic-blend DK is easy-care and forgiving; wool and wool blends are warmer and show stitches beautifully.
Shop nowCraft guide
Knitting & crochet supplies
Yarn, needles and hooks for cosy evenings on the sofa, and the jargon decoded, from "DK" to why a UK double crochet isn't the same as an American one.
Knitting and crochet both turn a ball of yarn into fabric, but they feel quite different. Knitting uses two needles and holds many live stitches at once; crochet uses a single hook and works one stitch at a time, which many beginners find easier to fix.
Whichever you choose, the pattern tells you what to buy: the yarn weight, how much yarn (in grams or metres) and the needle or hook size. Buying everything for one project from the pattern is the surest way to finish it.
Supplies to look for
Chunky & super chunky yarn
Knits up quickly on big needles, which makes it great for a first scarf, cowl or blanket that you can finish in a weekend.
Shop nowStraight knitting needles
Sold in metric (mm) sizes. Bamboo and wooden needles are a little "grippy", which helps stop stitches sliding off while you learn.
Shop nowCircular needles
Two needle tips joined by a cable. Used for knitting in the round (hats, jumpers) and for big flat projects like blankets.
Shop nowCrochet hooks
A 4mm to 5mm hook suits DK yarn for most beginner projects. Hooks with soft, chunky handles can be kinder on hands during long sessions.
Shop nowStitch markers & tapestry needles
Markers flag the start of a round or a pattern repeat; a blunt tapestry needle weaves in ends neatly. Small, cheap, and you'll use them on every project.
Shop nowBuying tips
- Check the dye lot on the ball band and buy enough of the same lot for the whole project, as colours can vary slightly between batches.
- Always make a small tension square if the fit matters (jumpers, hats). It's the only reliable way to know your stitches match the pattern.
- Vintage British patterns use old UK needle sizes, where bigger numbers mean thinner needles: old UK size 8 is 4mm, for example. A conversion chart is worth pinning up.
- Read the care label: superwash wool and acrylic can usually be machine washed, while ordinary wool may felt.
- Start with a light, smooth yarn in a plain colour. Dark, fluffy or very textured yarn makes it hard to see your stitches.
Good to know in the UK
UK and US crochet terms are different. The same stitch names mean different stitches: a UK double crochet is a US single crochet, and a UK treble is a US double. Most patterns say which they use; if you're following an online video, check its terms match your pattern.
UK yarn weights also have American equivalents: DK is close to US "light worsted", and aran is close to US "worsted" or "aran". Checking the recommended needle size and metres per 100g on the ball band is the most reliable comparison.
Explore more crafts
Paper & Cardmaking
Sewing & Quilting
Painting & Drawing
Jewellery Making
Scrapbooking
Kids' Crafts
Cricut, Cutting Machines & Vinyl
Candle & Soap Making
Resin Crafts
Embroidery & Cross-Stitch
Seasonal Crafts
Craft Storage
Just starting out? Read the beginners' guide or pick a weekend project.