The little swatch that makes a big difference.
Gauge refers to how many stitches and rows you get over a specific measurement. When following a knitting pattern, it's crucial to match the pattern's gauge to ensure your garment turns out the correct size and shape.
What is gauge?
Gauge is usually stated as the number of stitches and rows per 10 cm (4 inches). In the pattern, you will find the gauge with which the design was created.
For example, 18 stitches = 10 cm means you should have 18 stitches within a width of 10 cm.
Why is gauge important?
Even if you use the same yarn and needles as specified in the pattern, your gauge might differ from the designer's. We all knit a bit differently – some knit tightly, while others knit more loosely.
If you have too many stitches over 10 cm, you are knitting more tightly than the pattern. If you have too few stitches, you are knitting more loosely. This affects the size of the finished garment.
Therefore, we always recommend knitting a swatch before you begin.
How do you measure gauge?
Knit a swatch that is larger than 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 inches). It's a good idea to knit a few extra stitches and rows around the area you will measure, so you are not measuring right at the edge.
Lay the swatch flat without stretching it, and measure 10 cm (4 inches) in the middle of the swatch. Count how many stitches and rows you have within this area.
Getting the wrong gauge?
Don't worry – it's easy to adjust!
- Too many stitches over 10 cm: You are knitting too tightly. Try larger needles.
- Too few stitches over 10 cm: You are knitting too loosely. Try smaller needles.
Knit a new swatch after changing needle size, and measure again. Continue until you get as close to the pattern's gauge as possible.
Stitches and rows
Gauge consists of both stitches and rows. Stitches determine how wide you knit, while rows determine how tall you knit.
Primarily, the stitch count determines the garment's width, while the row count affects its height. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to both – especially if the pattern includes specific height measurements.
A little tip from us:
Don't skip the swatch, even if you're eager to get started. Those extra minutes can save you a lot of time later – and make it much easier to get a garment you're truly happy with.
