To Swatch or Not To Swatch (is this really a question?)!
Andrea Clements
When it comes to knitting and crochet, the age-old debate of whether to swatch or not to swatch continues to divide us. Some swear by the practice, while others see it as an unnecessary step that only delays the start of a project. So, is swatching really necessary? Let's delve into the facts to find out!
What is Swatching?
Swatching involves creating a small sample of the stitch pattern and yarn you plan to use for your project. This sample is typically worked in the same stitch pattern and needle or hook size as the main project to test for gauge, drape, and overall appearance.
Why Swatch?
Swatching is essential for ensuring that your finished project turns out the way you envision it. By creating a swatch, you can determine if your tension matches the pattern's requirements, if the yarn choice complements the stitch pattern, and if the finished fabric meets your expectations.
The Importance of Gauge
Gauge refers to the number of stitches and rows per inch in a knitted or crocheted fabric. Achieving the correct gauge is crucial for ensuring that your project's size and fit match the pattern's specifications. Even a slight difference in gauge can result in a significantly different finished product.
Save Time and Frustration
While swatching may seem like an extra step, it can actually save you time and frustration in the long run. By taking the time to swatch and adjust your tension if necessary, you can avoid the disappointment of completing a project only to find that it doesn't fit or look as expected.
So, do I swatch?
Good question....as I rule, only if I am making clothes! I find the rest of the time that I don't need to be so rigorous about checking the sizing against the pattern but when it comes to clothes that is a whole different ball game (ball of wool that is!!!). I have been caught out before and made items too large or small based on not doing my gauge swatch, so now I am far fussier about doing it.
How to make and use a gauge swatch
1. Choose your materials
Use the yarn and needles or hook that you plan to use for your main project. Most patterns will recommend a starting size, but be prepared to adjust based on the outcome and your own tension.
2. Create the swatch
- A good size for a swatch is at least 10 cm x 10 cm. This allows you to measure away from the edges, where stitches can be uneven.
- Most patterns specify a gauge in stockinette stitch for knitting (knit one row, purl one row). Knitters can add a garter stitch border to keep the edges from curling.
- Crochet patterns will specify the stitch pattern to be used for the swatch.
- If your final project is knit in the round, your swatch should also be made in the round.
3. Block the swatch
After finishing your swatch, it's crucial to block it using the same method you plan to use for the final garment. Blocking is the process of washing and shaping the fabric to its final size. This relaxes the fibres and shows you how the material will behave once it's finished.
4. Measure the gauge
Once your swatch is completely dry, lay it flat on a firm surface.
- Stitch gauge: Use a rigid ruler or a gauge measuring tool to count the number of stitches across 10 cm, counting the "V" shapes.
- Row gauge: Count the number of rows vertically within the same measurement.
There are some great tools available to help you measure your swatch but if you don't have them, then don't panic! A simple tape measure will do!
5. Adjust your needle or hook size
Compare your measurements to the pattern's required gauge.
- If you have more stitches than the pattern calls for, your fabric is too tight. Go up a needle or hook size.
- If you have fewer stitches than the pattern calls for, your fabric is too loose. Go down a needle or hook size.
6. Remake the swatch
After adjusting your needle or hook, repeat the process with a new swatch until your measurements match the pattern's gauge. While it may seem tedious, it is much easier than re-making an entire project.
Final Verdict
So, is swatching really necessary? The answer is a resounding yes! Swatching is a valuable tool that can help you achieve professional-looking results in your knitting and crochet projects. By investing a little time upfront to swatch, you can ensure that your finished creations are a perfect reflection of your skills and creativity.
Cheers Andrea x
1 comment
Hi Andrea
Great blog post. Swatching is a no brainer! Especially if you’ve ended up with the results I have by not doing it. Frustrating isn’t the word for it.
A little while ago I invested in Patty Lyon’s Knitting Bag of Tricks and the Workbook to follow along.
I’ve been knitting irregularly since my early teens. This book was an eyeopener. One of the set of exercises was a swatching piece that was knitted under a variety of techniques using different needles. My go tos are the KnitPro Nova Cubics. They make a difference to my arthritis. In this exercise I used 4mm Cubics in both the regular and circular configurations, as well as my Zings. I got a different gauge with all of them. Different stitches to the inch, different rows to the inch. And all this was just working good old fashioned stocking stitch.
So now when I want to knit a new garment, I buy an extra ball of yarn for my swatching. I cast on enough stitches to make an 8 inch square because I find that more accurate than anything smaller. At the end of it, I will end up with a stack of squares to make into a blanket at some stage, but at least I won’t be wasting wool on a project if I don’t get the result I need.
Of course, one can unravel it, but if you’ve gone to the trouble of blocking it properly, that’s a hassle.
I knit from vintage patterns a lot, and many of the ones I have from the 1940s to 1960s are for yarns no longer available, so I look for substitutes that will do the job. This is where swatching can be critical due to the technique of how that wool was created – the plies – were they done with a twist; are they a crepe? It will affect the outcome.