Crochet Hook Conversion

If you are new to crochet and you are just trying to figure out hook sizes, we have something for you.

Have you ever been in a situation where you noticed that the size 8 steel hook you have is different from the size 8 hook being used in the pattern you are following? Well, it turns out that even if they are both number 8, they might not be the same size. 8 might refer to IMIA or Japanese size 8, and it is different from 8mm or US 8. Think of it this way: 8 feet is not the same length as 8 inches.

Crochet hooks, and knitting needles too, are labeled with sizes based on different standards or should I say, systems. These could be UK, US, Metric, or Japanese.

I made a compilation of various hook sizes with their corresponding conversions so you will be aware of their equivalent sizes across various systems.

You also have to remember that there is a distinction between steel and aluminum/plastic/bamboo hook sizes. Steel is usually the material for the smaller hooks mainly used for finer crochet threads. Steel can withstand the extra pressure exerted when crocheting finer stitches. Aluminum, given its lighter weight compared to steel, is normally used for sizes 3mm up to 8mm. The larger hooks are mostly made of plastic or bamboo because they need to be even more lightweight than aluminum. It would be too much strain on your hand if your 15mm hook is made of aluminum instead of something lighter like plastic or bamboo.

I also made a compilation of knitting needle sizes.

Feel free to place a comment if you think there are corrections to these so I could provide more accurate information.

I hope this helps you for now (or at least prevents you from guessing hook/needle sizes).

Pantone Color of the Year for 2016

Almost every one involved in design whether it be in fashion, interior, or graphics, looks to Pantone for color standards. Every new year, they announce a color that will pretty much set the tone for the color palettes of the entire year. Last year, they announced Marsala as the color of the year. For 2016, they made an interesting choice of 2 shades: Rose Quartz and Serenity.

Please take note that actual color may vary from uploaded image due to lighting and/or screen color calibration.

The choice is an interesting one because this is the first time Pantone has chosen 2 shades as the color of the year. Here is a description of Pantone of these shades:

"Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace."

Very zen-like, huh? It'll be interesting to see how these shades will translate to design and how they will look like paired with other colors.

If you're interested to have these shades for your yarn, Gantsilyo Guru Selections has some that come quite close to Rose Quartz and Serenity:

Gantsilyo Guru Milk Cotton Light Pastel Pink & Pastel Blue

Dapper Dreamer Stardust Baby Pink & Powder Blue

Gantsilyo Guru Bulky Cashmere Blend Rose Pink & Powder Blue

Caron Simply Soft Soft Pink & Soft Blue

Gantsilyo Guru Milk Cotton Medium Lite Pink & Cornflower

Lion Brand Baby's First Twinkle Toes & Splish Splash

Dapper Dreamer Bamboo Cotton Powder Pink & Powder Blue or Arctic Blue (Available Soon!)

You can read more about Pantone's color of the year HERE.