L-11 Crochet Hook (8 mm): Yarn Weight, Gauge and Size Conversions
The L-11 hook is 8 mm, old UK size 0. It suits bulky (chunky) yarn, which CYC gauges at 8 to 11 single crochet per 4 inches. At about 9 stitches per 4 inches, a 50 inch blanket starts with about 114 chains. A 20 inch hat band is about 45 stitches around.
Crochet hook size is the diameter of the shank, the smooth part of the hook that sets the size of each loop. This hook is 8 mm, about 0.31 inch across. The US label L-11 and the 8 mm size describe the same hook, and old UK charts call it size 0. Letters vary between brands, so the millimeter size is the one to match.
What is the L-11 hook in mm and UK sizes?
| Metric | 8 mm |
|---|---|
| Inches (shank diameter) | 0.31 in |
| US letter and number | L-11 |
| Old UK size | 0 |
| Knitting needle, same diameter | US 11 (8 mm) |
| Usual yarn weight | bulky (chunky) |
| Estimated gauge | about 9 single crochet per 4 in |
What yarn weight do you use with a 8 mm crochet hook?
The Craft Yarn Council lists 8 mm inside the recommended hook range for the weights below. The chain and hat columns show how far the full gauge range of each weight moves the stitch count.
| Yarn weight | CYC hook range | Single crochet per 4 in | Chain for 50 in | 20 in hat band |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bulky (chunky) | 6.5 to 9 mm (K-10.5 to M-13) | 8 to 11 | 101 to 139 | 40 to 55 |
What is the crochet chain length for a blanket with a L-11 hook?
The estimated gauge places 8 mm within the CYC hook range for bulky (chunky) yarn, giving about 9 single crochet per 4 inches. Each starting chain is the stitches needed for the width plus 1 turning chain for single crochet. Rows of taller stitches or lacy patterns change the width per stitch, so swatch in the stitch you plan to use.
| Blanket | Width (in) | Starting chain (estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| Stroller / Car Seat | 30 | about 69 |
| Receiving | 30 | about 69 |
| Baby / Crib | 42 | about 96 |
| Throw / Afghan | 50 | about 114 |
| Twin | 66 | about 150 |
| Full / Double | 80 | about 181 |
| Queen | 90 | about 204 |
| King | 108 | about 244 |
Chain loosely, or go up a size
Foundation chains are usually tighter than the rows above them, which makes the bottom edge pull in. Many crocheters chain with a hook one size larger, then switch back. Enter your own swatch in the crochet chain calculator for an exact count.
Blanket yarn and tools for a L-11 hook
Bernat Softee Chunky Yarn, Super Bulky #6, 3 Pack, True Grey
$14.56Three 108 yard balls of acrylic labeled #6 super bulky, with a crochet gauge on an 8 mm L-11 hook.
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Bernat Blanket Super Bulky Chenille Yarn, 3 pack
$21.81Three 150 g, 108 yard balls of 100 percent polyester super bulky yarn made for blankets.
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Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick Yarn, 3 pack
$28.15Three 106 yard skeins of wool blend that knits at 9 stitches on US 13 (9 mm) needles.
Check pricePrices change often, so confirm on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
What knitting needle size matches a L-11 hook?
A US 11 knitting needle is also 8 mm. For the same yarn, though, CYC pairs bulky (chunky) with 6.5 to 9 mm (K-10.5 to M-13) hooks, which run larger than the matching needles because crochet fabric is denser.
What are the crochet hook sizes next to the L-11 hook?
Frequently asked questions
What size is an L-11 hook in mm?
The L-11 hook is 8 mm across the shank, about 0.31 inch. Hook size is measured on the shank, the smooth section between the throat and the thumb rest, because that part sets the size of every loop. Letters and numbers vary between brands, especially at the large end, so the millimeter size stamped on the hook is the one to trust. The neighboring sizes are 7 mm and M/N-13 (9 mm).
What yarn weight do you use with a 8 mm crochet hook?
CYC places 8 mm within the recommended hook range for bulky (chunky) yarn. Bulky (chunky) is the usual match, with a hook range of 6.5 to 9 mm (K-10.5 to M-13) and a gauge of 8 to 11 single crochet per 4 inches. It sits inside one category, so it is a straightforward match. With chunky yarn, start from the hook printed on the label, because thickness varies between brands.
How many chains do I need for a blanket with a L-11 hook?
At about 9 single crochet per 4 inches, our estimate for bulky (chunky) yarn on a 8 mm hook, a 50 inch wide throw starts with about 114 chains, including 1 turning chain. A 42 inch baby blanket needs about 96 and a 90 inch queen about 204. Foundation chains tend to be tighter than the rows above, so many crocheters chain with a hook one size larger.
What is a L-11 hook in UK sizes?
The old UK size is 0. Old UK numbers run in reverse, so higher numbers are finer hooks. Current UK and European patterns use millimeters, so a pattern asking for a 8 mm hook means this exact size. Watch the stitch names as well as the hook: UK double crochet is the same stitch as US single crochet, and UK treble is US double crochet.
What knitting needle is the same size as a L-11 hook?
A US 11 knitting needle is also 8 mm. Same diameter does not mean same yarn: CYC pairs bulky (chunky) yarn with 6.5 to 9 mm (K-10.5 to M-13) hooks but 5.5 to 8 mm (US 9 to 11) needles, because crochet stitches are denser. For the same yarn, crocheters usually reach for a bigger tool than knitters.
Is a L-11 hook good for beginners?
For chunky projects, yes. A 8 mm hook works up fast: a 50 inch throw starts with only 114 chains, and stitches are easy to see. The catch is weight: bulky yarn and a big blanket in your lap get heavy, and large loops can be hard to read. A scarf or cowl makes a good first project at this size.
How we research: we compare manufacturer specifications, owner manuals, published standards and recurring themes in verified owner reviews. We do not test products in person, and this is researched guidance, not professional advice. Follow your machine manual and pattern, and take care with rotary cutters, hot irons and needles. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.