P-16 Crochet Hook (11.5 mm): Yarn Weight, Gauge and Size Conversions
The P-16 hook is 11.5 mm. It suits super bulky yarn, which CYC gauges at 7 to 9 single crochet per 4 inches. At about 8 stitches per 4 inches, a 50 inch blanket starts with about 101 chains. A 20 inch hat band is about 40 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 11.5 mm, about 0.45 inch across. The US label P-16 and the 11.5 mm size describe the same hook. Letters vary between brands, so the millimeter size is the one to match.
What is the P-16 hook in mm and UK sizes?
| Metric | 11.5 mm |
|---|---|
| Inches (shank diameter) | 0.45 in |
| US letter and number | P-16 |
| Old UK size | None |
| Knitting needle, same diameter | None on the CYC chart |
| Usual yarn weight | super bulky |
| Estimated gauge | about 8 single crochet per 4 in |
Charts also list the sizes below. They are close enough to 11.5 mm, or labeled so inconsistently between brands, that they share this page.
| Metric | US | Old UK | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 mm | None | None | CYC lists no US size. |
What yarn weight do you use with a 11.5 mm crochet hook?
The Craft Yarn Council lists 11.5 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Super bulky | 9 to 15 mm (M-13 to Q) | 7 to 9 | 89 to 114 | 35 to 45 |
What is the crochet chain length for a blanket with a P-16 hook?
The estimated gauge places 11.5 mm within the CYC hook range for super bulky yarn, giving about 8 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 61 |
| Receiving | 30 | about 61 |
| Baby / Crib | 42 | about 85 |
| Throw / Afghan | 50 | about 101 |
| Twin | 66 | about 133 |
| Full / Double | 80 | about 161 |
| Queen | 90 | about 181 |
| King | 108 | about 217 |
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 P-16 hook
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.
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Bernat Baby Blanket Yarn, Super Bulky #6, 2 Pack of 300 g, Lovely Blue
$21.69Two 220 yard balls of super bulky polyester with a crochet gauge on a 6.5 mm K hook.
Check pricePrices change often, so confirm on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
What knitting needle size matches a P-16 hook?
No knitting needle on the CYC chart is exactly 11.5 mm. The nearest are US 15 (10 mm) and US 17 (12.5 mm). For the same yarn, crocheters usually reach for a bigger tool than knitters.
What are the crochet hook sizes next to the P-16 hook?
Frequently asked questions
What size is a P-16 hook in mm?
The P-16 hook is 11.5 mm across the shank, about 0.45 inch. Charts also list 12 mm, covered on this page. 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 N/P-15 (10 mm) and P/Q (15 mm).
What yarn weight do you use with a 11.5 mm crochet hook?
CYC places 11.5 mm within the recommended hook range for super bulky yarn. Super bulky is the usual match, with a hook range of 9 to 15 mm (M-13 to Q) and a gauge of 7 to 9 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 P-16 hook?
At about 8 single crochet per 4 inches, our estimate for super bulky yarn on a 11.5 mm hook, a 50 inch wide throw starts with about 101 chains, including 1 turning chain. A 42 inch baby blanket needs about 85 and a 90 inch queen about 181. Foundation chains tend to be tighter than the rows above, so many crocheters chain with a hook one size larger.
Is there a UK size for a 11.5 mm crochet hook?
Common conversion charts give no old UK number for 11.5 mm. Current UK and European patterns use millimeters, so a pattern asking for a 11.5 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 P-16 hook?
No knitting needle on the CYC chart is exactly 11.5 mm. The nearest are US 15 (10 mm) and US 17 (12.5 mm). Same diameter does not mean same yarn: CYC pairs super bulky yarn with 9 to 15 mm (M-13 to Q) hooks but 8 to 12.75 mm (US 11 to 17) needles, because crochet stitches are denser. For the same yarn, crocheters usually reach for a bigger tool than knitters.
Is a P-16 hook good for beginners?
For chunky projects, yes. A 11.5 mm hook works up fast: a 50 inch throw starts with only 101 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.