Q Crochet Hook (16 mm): Yarn Weight, Gauge and Size Conversions

The Q hook is 16 mm across the shank, about 0.63 inch. Charts also list 15.75 mm (Q), 19 mm (S), 25 mm (T/U/X) and 30 mm (T/X), 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 nearest size on the chart is P/Q (15 mm).

CYC places 16 mm within the recommended hook range for jumbo yarn. Jumbo is the usual match, with a hook range of 15 mm (Q) and larger and a gauge of 6 or fewer 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.

At up to 6 single crochet per 4 inches, our estimate for jumbo yarn on a 16 mm hook, a 50 inch wide throw starts with up to 76 chains, including 1 turning chain. A 42 inch baby blanket needs about 64 and a 90 inch queen about 136. Foundation chains tend to be tighter than the rows above, so many crocheters chain with a hook one size larger.

Common conversion charts give no old UK number for 16 mm. Current UK and European patterns use millimeters, so a pattern asking for a 16 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.

No knitting needle on the CYC chart is exactly 16 mm. The nearest are US 19 (15 mm) and US 35 (19 mm). Same diameter does not mean same yarn: CYC pairs jumbo yarn with 15 mm (Q) and larger hooks but 12.75 mm (US 17) and larger needles, because crochet stitches are denser. For the same yarn, crocheters usually reach for a bigger tool than knitters.

For chunky projects, yes. A 16 mm hook works up fast: a 50 inch throw starts with only 76 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.