E-4 Crochet Hook (3.5 mm): Yarn Weight, Gauge and Size Conversions

The E-4 hook is 3.5 mm across the shank, about 0.14 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 D-3 (3.25 mm) and F-5 (3.75 mm).

CYC places 3.5 mm within the recommended hook range for super fine (fingering) and fine (sport) yarn. Fine (sport) is the usual match, with a hook range of 3.5 to 4.5 mm (E-4 to size 7) and a gauge of 16 to 20 single crochet per 4 inches. Sitting where two categories meet, it gives the lighter yarn a looser, drapier fabric and the heavier yarn a firmer one. Amigurumi often uses a smaller hook than the label for tight stitches.

At about 20 single crochet per 4 inches, our estimate for fine (sport) yarn on a 3.5 mm hook, a 50 inch wide throw starts with about 251 chains, including 1 turning chain. A 42 inch baby blanket needs about 211 and a 90 inch queen about 451. Foundation chains tend to be tighter than the rows above, so many crocheters chain with a hook one size larger.

The old UK size is 9. 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 3.5 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.

A US 4 knitting needle is also 3.5 mm. Same diameter does not mean same yarn: CYC pairs fine (sport) yarn with 3.5 to 4.5 mm (E-4 to size 7) hooks but 3.25 to 3.75 mm (US 3 to 5) needles, because crochet stitches are denser. For the same yarn, crocheters usually reach for a bigger tool than knitters.

It is better once you are comfortable with the basic stitches. At 3.5 mm the stitches are small, about 20 per 4 inches, so counting takes good light and patience. Thin hooks also encourage a tight grip, so a cushioned handle, bright daylight lamp and regular breaks help. Many beginners start on a 5 mm H-8 hook with worsted yarn.