Understanding Knitting Gauge & Pattern Measurements

Why Gauge Matters

Getting the right knitting gauge is key to ensuring your finished garment fits exactly how you imagined. Gauge is the number of stitches and rows per 10 cm (4 inches) and influences everything from width to shaping. If your gauge is off—even slightly—your project could end up too small or too large.

Step-by-Step: How to Measure Gauge

1. Cast on more stitches than you need for a 10 cm section—this gives you space to measure accurately without edge distortion.
2. Knit a swatch at least 10x10 cm in the suggested stitch (often stockinette).
3. Lay it flat (do not stretch), then use a tape measure to count the number of stitches and rows across 10 cm.
4. If your stitch count is higher than expected, try using a larger needle. If it’s lower, go smaller.

How to Apply Gauge to Your Pattern

Use your measured gauge to calculate how many stitches are needed for a given width:

• If your gauge is 20 stitches per 10 cm, then each cm = 2 stitches.
• For a garment that’s 48 cm wide: 48 × 2 = 96 stitches.

Small changes in tension have a big effect. For example, if you knit 22 stitches over 10 cm instead of 20, your final garment could be 5 cm too narrow.

Needle Sizes & Materials

Needle size is just a suggestion. Everyone's tension is slightly different, and even your own tension can change between projects. Use whatever needle helps you achieve the correct gauge—even if it's different from the pattern. Needle material (wood, bamboo, metal, etc.) can also influence your tension.

Swatch Now, Save Time Later

Taking the time to knit a gauge swatch can save you hours of rework and help you avoid disappointment. Measure carefully, adjust your tools as needed, and refer back to your swatch as you go. You’ll thank yourself in the end!