Guides

Knitting guides on grading, gauge, and fit

Practical, no-fluff guides on the knitting math that decides whether a garment fits. Read these alongside the pattern grader and the gauge calculator.

01

How to grade a knitting pattern

A clear, step-by-step guide to grading a knitting pattern: turn one sample size into a full size range with correct stitch counts, row counts, and even shaping.

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02

How to measure knitting gauge

How to measure knitting gauge accurately: knit and block a swatch, count stitches and rows over 10 cm or 4 in, and read the number that makes your project fit.

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03

Gauge swatch mistakes that ruin the fit

The gauge swatch mistakes that quietly ruin a knit: too small a swatch, not blocking, measuring the edges, and ignoring row gauge. How to avoid each one.

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04

When your gauge doesn't match the pattern

Your gauge does not match the pattern. Three fixes: change needle size, pick a different size, or convert the counts to your gauge so the finished size stays right.

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05

Ease and sizing basics

Knitting ease explained: positive, zero, and negative ease, how to pick a size from your body measurement, and the ease ranges for fitted, classic, and oversized.

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06

What is worsted weight yarn?

What is worsted weight yarn? It is Craft Yarn Council weight 4, 16 to 20 stitches per 4 in on US 7 to 9 needles. See its gauge, needle size, and uses.

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07

Knitting vs crochet: what's the difference?

Knitting vs crochet: knitting makes stretchy fabric on two needles; crochet uses one hook and about 25 to 60 percent more yarn. See the numbers and pick.

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08

How to join knitting in the round

How to join knitting in the round without a twist or a gap: line up the cast-on edge, cast on one extra stitch, then knit two together to close it.

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09

How to count rows in knitting

How to count rows in knitting: follow one column of V's, count each garter ridge as two rows, know when the cast-on counts, and turn length into rows.

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10

How to weave in ends in knitting

How to weave in ends in knitting: leave a 4 to 6 in tail, work it through 5 to 7 stitches on the wrong side, turn back, then stretch and trim.

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