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Precision
All about Knitting Gauge
Gauge is the key to ensuring your finished garment actually fits. Here you'll learn everything you need to take control of your measurements.
Why is it important?
Knitting gauge is the number of stitches and rows you get over a certain measurement – usually per 10 x 10 cm. It tells you how tightly or loosely you knit. Check your gauge with our gauge calculator.
Did you know?
Even if you use the same yarn and needle size as the pattern, your personal knitting style can result in a completely different measurement than the designer's.
If you have too many stitches per 10 cm, you are knitting tighter than the pattern, and the garment will be too small. If you have too few stitches, you are knitting looser, and the garment will be too large.
10 cm
22 stitches
10 cm Try the Calculator
Enter your gauge and see if you should change needle size.
Knittingtips.net
14/04/2026
Result: Knitting Gauge
Gauge Calculator
Compare your gauge with the pattern and get needle size recommendations.
Result
How to make a perfect test swatch
1
Cast on plenty
Cast on about 30-40 stitches. We want to measure the 10 cm in the middle, so we need some extra on each side.
2
Knit high enough
Knit about 12-15 cm. It's important to see how the yarn behaves over a certain area.
3
Washing is key
Some yarn types grow or shrink in the wash. Wash and dry the swatch before measuring!
4
Measure flat
Lay the swatch on a flat surface. Do not stretch it while measuring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if I get too many stitches per 10 cm?
If you have too many stitches, it means you're knitting too tightly. You should switch to larger needles and knit a new gauge swatch.
What do I do if I get too few stitches per 10 cm?
If you have too few stitches, it means you're knitting too loosely. You should switch to smaller needles and knit a new gauge swatch.
Can I measure the gauge while the work is on the needles?
It's best to finish the swatch, cast off, wash, and dry it before measuring. The stitches can change significantly after washing, especially with treated yarns (Superwash).