Correcting Gauge in Crochet
Correcting gauge in crochet, means that you match the size of the stitches from a pattern. We went over what gauge is, in The Basics section of this course. I did not want to overwhelm you before you even knew how to crochet the beginner stitches. Now that you have mastered all the beginner stitches, you are ready!
How to Match Gauge in Crochet
- Make a swatch using the same yarn and stitch you will be using for the pattern.
- Make a chain about 5 inches long. Continue crocheting rows to make a square swatch about 5×5 inches.
- Then measure your swatch. You will measure both horizontal (stitches) and vertical (rows).
Stitches
Lay your ruler/measuring tape in horizontal on your swatch and count how many stitches are in a 4-inch space. In the image below, there are 15 sc stitches within 4 inches.
Rows
Turn your ruler vertical and count how many rows fit in a 4-inch space. There are 18 rows within 4 inches of the swatch in the image below.
How to Correct Gauge
If your gauge matches the pattern, then you are good to go! If they do not match, no worries, there are ways to fix this…
You can correct your gauge to match the pattern by adjusting the size of the hook you use.
Tighter
If you have more stitches and rows in your swatch than what the pattern states, you crochet tighter than the pattern designer. To adjust this, go up a hook size and make another swatch.
Looser
If your swatch has fewer stitches and rows, you crochet looser than the designer of the pattern. Try a smaller hook size on your next swatch.
You may have to adjust your hook size a few times to match the pattern’s gauge. That is OK! It is worth spending a few minutes making small swatches and getting the correct gauge in the beginning. Rather than spending hours crocheting a garment only to find out, it does not fit when you are finished with it.
Next Course – Adding an Edge
