Bruce the Chef

By: Louise Nova

Even though you may want to jump right in there and start using
knitting patterns it is definitely a good idea to make a knitting gauge
swatch. You don’t want skip this step, it’s not worth it. A single
stitch in one inch can end up really making a big difference to the
eventual size of an item from all knitting patterns. It seems like a
chore but you need to just learn that you will be thankful in the end.
Always knit the swatch in the stitch that you will use. Obviously
different knitting patterns end up with different sizes so this
matters. I always try to make my swatch big enough to make it a good
test. I usually go for at least 4" x 4". Surround the swatch with a few
rows of seed stitch knitting (knit or purl the opposite stitch of what
you see facing you on odd number rows). Begin and end each row with
four seed stitches as well. This stitch lies very flat and will help
you measure accurately.

Feel The Tension!

It may surprise you to know that the needle size is much less important
than your particular tension with knitting patterns. Some people are
loose with their knitting while others are tight. This can also vary
from day to day with some people. You can deliberately adapt your
tension to create different looks from the same knitting patterns.
Loose knitting for a light open feel and tighter knitting for a warmer
feel. Remember also that you will get a softer feel from a loose knit
and a stiffer feel from a tight knit.

When you have finished the swatch let it sit for awhile. The yarn needs
to relax and even out any tight spots. Now count the stitches and
measure
the rows per inch of knitting. Remember to try a measurement in a few
different places. Another way is to just calculate how big the total
knitting
pattern swatch should be. If 16 stitches were cast on and the gauge in
the knitting pattern is 4st=1" then the swatch should measure 4" The
part you measure should not include the seed stitches. Think about the
size and adjust the needle size. For instance, if you are too small,
try larger needles and vice versa. Now you have finished you can start
using your knitting patterns with confidence knowing that the product
of your labors will actually fit you!

About the Author:

Louise Nova loves knitting and teaching people how to knit. She also
loves to blog. Knitting for 30 years, she has taught many young family
members how knitting is fun and easy. You can find more information on
her blog at Knitting Patterns

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