You know the basics of gauge, but how do you make your own gauge work for you! Stop trying to match the gauge exactly and learn how to knit a project to YOUR gauge. After a review of the basics, and how to make a “truthful” swatch, we’ll get to some of the trickier elements of gauge, such as pre blocked v.s.blocked gauge, hung gauge, and the difference between yarn gauge and pattern gauge. We will explore what to do when a project is knit in the round or in a pattern stitch. Finally, we’ll master the math of using your gauge, not just the pattern gauge. We’ll learn how to work an existing size with a different gauge, resize a sweater by using a different gauge, how to add different stitch patterns to your garment, and how to make adjustments to your pattern when your row gauge is off. Stop trying to match someone else’s gauge and discover the joys of making YOUR gauge work!

Homework: 

Cast on 24 stitches, knit in stockinette for 5 inches - NO GARTER EDGE Do not bind off, leave on needle with yarn attached. OPTIONAL: On circular needle cast on 24 stitches. Row 1: K2 tbl, P2, K16, P2, K2 tbl – JUST DO ONE ROW and leave yarn attached

Class Supplies: 

Yarn- Worsted weight or chunky yarn to make your swatch. Small extra ball of yarn NO NOVELTY YARN, NO TEXTURED YARN, LIGHT COLORED YARN ONLY

Needles & Hooks: US 9 - 11, (the sizes you used to make your swatches), 1 empty needle for casting on, double pointed needle in a small size or a tapestry needle Accessories – Ruler, calculator, paper & pen

Prerequisites:

Must know how to knit, purl, cast on, bind off. Recognize the knit and purl stitch and be able to work them in a pattern without supervision. Basic understanding of what gauge is and how to make a gauge swatch (if not: Take Measure Up: Gauge Basics)