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Knitting gauge card · Free · No account

Compare your swatch with the pattern, then cast on the right number of stitches.

Type the pattern’s gauge and the gauge of your washed swatch. The card works out the stitches to cast on for the width you want, rounded to the pattern’s stitch multiple, and the rows for a length. It prints with a 10 cm measuring window at actual size, so it doubles as a gauge ruler.

  • A4 and US Letter
  • Prints at actual size
  • Seven colour choices
  1. Type both gaugesThe pattern’s stitches and rows over 10 cm or 4 in, and the ones you counted on your washed and blocked swatch.
  2. Add the sizeThe width you want, a length if you need the rows, and the pattern’s stitch multiple, such as 4 plus 2.
  3. Print and knitDownload the PDF on A4 or US Letter. Cut out the measuring window and keep the counts with your project.

Make your card

The page beside the form changes as you type. The PDF is made in your browser and is sized for A4 or US Letter.

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File details

What it works out
It calculates stitches to cast on for a width and rows for a length from your gauge, rounded to the pattern’s stitch multiple.
Using the result
Rework the pattern’s shaping and decreases yourself for the new counts.
Calculation
Stitches = width × your stitches per centimetre (or inch), rounded to the nearest multiple × n + extra.
A guide
Gauge varies across a swatch and between swatches; count away from the edges and over the full window.

Questions

How is the cast-on worked out?

Your stitches per centimetre (or inch) times the width you want. The result is rounded to the nearest count that fits the pattern’s multiple, so a multiple of 4 plus 2 gives counts such as 102 or 106.

Why wash the swatch first?

Many yarns relax or tighten when washed and blocked. A gauge counted before washing can be several stitches out over a whole piece.

Does it adjust the pattern for me?

No. It works out stitch and row counts from your gauge. Adjust shaping, decreases and pattern rows separately.

Can I measure in inches?

Yes. Choose 4 in, and every measurement and the measuring window use inches.

Should I print at actual size?

Yes. Choose 100% or Actual size and turn off Fit to page. Measure the printed window before using it: it must match the selected 10 cm or 4 in size.

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