Step 4

Count the number of rows per inch by turning your measuring tape 90^o.  Line up the tape along the left edge of a vertical column of stitches.  I counted 5.5 rows between the 2 and 3 markers -- almost 6 rows.  Measuring again in a different spot, I counted only 5 rows.  A third sample counted 5 rows again, so my gauge for this swatch is 4 stitches and 5 rows per inch.

Wondering how to change your gauge?  Maybe our Not Too Tight Tutorial can help! 

Comments

[Knitbrit]

I think the gauge tutorial is very good, however I think it might be easier to pronounce the word gauge as GAGE.
However I could be wrong!!!!!!!

[JCox in PA]

Thanks for the swatch tutorial. I never fail to do a swatch and never fail to have to downsize needles to get my gauge to match the recommended measurements. I don't know what I'll ever do if the pattern/yarn calls for Size 1 or 2 needles!

The best wisdom from your tutorial is the advice to measure in a few different places. I have always measured horizontal and vertical and that's it....now I can't wait to try a new swatch and discover the difference.

It was also interesting to see that you do a garter stitch border. I started doing that after I made a baby blanket that was stockinette stitch with a garter stitch border and garter stitch monogram (Simple Knits for Cherished Babies, Erika Knight). Now I am saving them and maybe when I get enough I'll stitch them together for a nice lap-warmer for someone in a nursing home.

One more comment and then I'll stop being so blabby...When I'm working with a fiber that doesn't have wool in it, I always pop my swatch in the washer and dryer to see how it will fare. If I'm making something as a gift, I always assume the worst. I learned that Rowan's All-Seasons Cotton and some of their other yarns machine wash and dry beautifully!! I now make almost all my baby blanket gifts this way, and let the new mother know that she doesn't have to worry about tossing it in the washer and dryer.I have seen those blankets get a lot more use than the ones that have to be hand-washed and blocked. What busy new Mom has time for that :)

[beverly]

this is the first time that i have truely understood how to the number of stitches and rows per inch. i'm a new knitter so i've been knitting very basic items (scarves). now i know what i need to do. thanks for the clear explanation! :) beverly