Knitting Gauge Calculator for Cast-On Stitches
Use a gauge swatch to find how many stitches to cast on and how many rows to knit for any width and height. Enter the swatch counts and your target size.
How to use a knitting gauge
- Knit a swatch and count the stitches and rows over a measured width and height.
- Enter those counts and the finished width and height you want.
- Read the cast-on stitches and total rows, then copy the result.
Examples
5 stitches and 7 rows per inch to an 18 by 24 inch piece
20 sts over 4 in, 28 rows over 4 in, target 18 x 24 in
90 cast-on stitches, 168 rows
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate cast-on stitches from gauge?
Divide the stitches in your swatch by its width to get stitches per inch, then multiply by the finished width you want and round to the nearest whole stitch.
Do I need to measure rows too?
Only if you want a row count. Leave the row fields blank and the tool returns just the stitches per inch and cast-on stitches. Add rows and height to also get total rows.
Why is matching gauge so important?
Gauge sets the finished size. If your stitches per inch differ from the pattern, the garment comes out larger or smaller, so always swatch in the project yarn and needles.
Should I measure over 4 inches or 1 inch?
Measure over 4 inches or more and let the tool divide. Counting over a larger span averages out small irregularities and gives a far more accurate stitches-per-inch figure.
Does it account for pattern repeats or edge stitches?
No. It returns the raw stitch count for the width. Round to your stitch-pattern multiple and add any selvage or border stitches your pattern calls for.
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