DK stands for double knitting, a standardized yarn weight that is heavier than sport weight but lighter than worsted. It typically knits up at a gauge of 21 to 24 stitches per four inches on US 5 or 6 needles. Spinners and dyers label yarn as DK to help knitters match patterns designed for mid-weight sweaters, baby clothes, and winter accessories.
Heard on the job
Substitute any DK weight merino you have in your stash if you want to hit the right gauge for the cardigan.
Also heard as
- double knitting weight
- light worsted
Do not mix it up with
- Double knitting: DK refers to the yarn weight, while double knitting is the technique of creating a reversible, two-layered fabric.