KNITTING
101 with Lisa and Danielle
Gauge Swatch
VII. Gauge Swatch
Creating a gauge
swatch is an important part of knitting. Not all knitters knit at the same
tension just as not all yarns are the same thickness. You will want to
knit a gauge swatch any time you use a new size needle with a new
yarn.
To
determine your gauge, knit a sample swatch a bit larger than 4"x4"
with your intended yarn and needles. . Place it on a flat surface. Place a ruler
horizontally on the swatch, a couple of stitches from the edge, and measure
4"). Count the number of stitches including partial stitches. To measure
the row gauge, place the ruler vertically, measure 4", and count the number
of rows. Hint: I like to use my gauge swatches for pockets on cargo pants
and shorts!
In making shorts or pants, consider your baby's waist size. Let's say your baby has a waist of 18" Let's then say you have done a gauge swatch and your gauge is 5 stitches per inch. You multiply 18x5 (=90) and that is how many stitches you will want to cast on. Then when you finish your ribbing and want to increase for your hips, you remember your gauge and know how many to add. Let's assume then your baby has hips of 22". Multiply by 5 (110) and know you need to increase a total of 20 stitches. You can then increase your body by adding a stitch approximately every 5 stitches.