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Crochet hook sizes – A practical guide comparing crochet hooks

by | Jun 9, 2023 | Crochet

Crafty Turtle

Crocheting is a beloved craft that has captivated the hearts of people around the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, one essential tool that you must become familiar with is the crochet hook. Interestingly, crochet hooks come in various sizes, and these sizes can differ across different countries. In this blog, we will explore the differences in crochet hook sizes across the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Canada, and Japan. So grab your yarn and hook, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of crochet hooks!

  1. United States (US):
    In the US, crochet hook sizes are typically labeled using letters (e.g., F, G, H) or numbers (e.g., 5.0 mm, 6.5 mm). The most commonly used sizing system is the letter-based system. Starting from the smallest, the hook sizes progress from B (2.25 mm) to Q (15.75 mm). However, it’s worth noting that some US patterns may also use the numerical sizing system.
  2. United Kingdom (UK):
    Crochet hooks in the UK follow a different sizing system. The UK system employs numbers to indicate hook sizes, ranging from 0.60 mm to 25.0 mm. These numbers correspond to specific millimeter sizes, but the relationship is not always consistent. For instance, a UK size 3 crochet hook corresponds to 2.10 mm, while a size 4 crochet hook corresponds to 2.50 mm.
  3. Canada:
    Similar to the United States, Canada often uses the US crochet hook sizing system. Therefore, you will typically find crochet hooks labeled with letters (e.g., F, G, H) or numbers (e.g., 5.0 mm, 6.5 mm) in Canada. The sizing conventions and progressions are generally the same as those used in the US.
  4. Japan:
    Japan has its own unique crochet hook sizing system, which can differ significantly from the US, UK, and Canadian systems. Japanese hooks are labeled with millimeter sizes, much like the numerical sizing system found in the US. However, the Japanese millimeter sizes may not always align with their US or UK counterparts. It’s essential to be mindful of these variations when working on patterns from Japan or using Japanese crochet hooks.

Understanding Conversion:
Due to the differences in sizing systems across countries, it’s important to know how to convert crochet hook sizes if you’re following a pattern from a different region. Various online resources and conversion charts can help you find the equivalent hook size in your desired system. However, it’s crucial to remember that these conversions are not always precise, and slight variations may occur.

I’ve included a helpful guide that you can download below.

Considerations and Recommendations:

  1. Gauge: Since crochet hook sizes affect the gauge or tension of your stitches, it’s crucial to match the hook size recommended in your pattern. Deviating from the specified hook size can result in variations in size, drape, and overall appearance of the finished project.
  2. Experimentation: Exploring different crochet hook sizes can be an exciting way to create unique textures and fabric densities. By experimenting with various sizes, you can personalize your crochet projects and discover new techniques.
  3. International Collaboration: In today’s globalized world, it’s common for crocheters to share patterns and ideas across borders. When working with patterns from different countries, always double-check the recommended hook size and consider any necessary conversions.


Crochet hook sizes may vary across different countries, making it important to understand the sizing systems used in the US, UK, Canada, and Japan. Being aware of these differences allows crocheters to effectively follow patterns from around the world, ensure accurate gauge, and explore new creative possibilities. So, embrace the diversity of crochet hooks, expand your knowledge, and let your creativity flourish with every stitch you make!

See below for your free chart

Introducing our downloadable Crochet Hook Conversion Chart, available for free! This essential tool is designed to simplify your crochet journey by assisting you in converting US terms to UK terms effortlessly. Say goodbye to confusion and uncertainty when faced with crochet patterns that use different hook sizing systems.

We understand the frustration of encountering crochet patterns with unfamiliar terminologies. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive chart that provides clear conversions from US letter sizes to mm hook sizes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this chart will be your go-to resource for quick and accurate hook size conversions.

With our Crochet Hook Conversion Chart, you can easily decipher the mystery behind letter designations like H, G, or K, and confidently determine their corresponding mm sizes. By relying on the mm hook sizes, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the exact dimensions needed for your crochet projects, allowing you to achieve consistent and precise results every time.

This printable chart is thoughtfully designed for convenience and clarity. It features a user-friendly layout that ensures easy readability, even when working with intricate patterns. The chart can be downloaded and printed, making it accessible whenever and wherever you need it. You can keep it in your crochet project bag, hang it on your craft room wall, or share it with fellow crochet enthusiasts.

Our Crochet Hook Conversion Chart empowers you to take on any crochet project with confidence. No longer will you find yourself puzzled by ambiguous hook sizes. By having this handy reference at your fingertips, you’ll unlock a world of creative possibilities and embark on your crochet adventures with ease.

Don’t let hook size confusion slow down your crochet journey. Download our printable Crochet Hook Conversion Chart for free today by filling out the form below and unlock the power of quick and accurate hook size conversions. Happy crocheting!

Crochet Hook Sizes

Check out the video below

To understand all the differences in terminology related to crochet, explore the video below.

https://youtu.be/h2Cxvb6Eqnw
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