What is gauge?
Knitting gauge is the number of stitches and rows in a given measurement (usually 10cm / 4 inches) of knitted fabric. Once you know your finished size, gauge lets you calculate the stitches and rows to cast on, and if you have a pattern written for a different gauge, you can rescale it to your own. This calculator does all of that automatically.
How to use it
1. Measure the stitches and rows within 10cm and enter them as your gauge. 2. Enter the width and length (cm) you want to make, and it calculates the stitches and rows you need. 3. To rescale a pattern, enter both the pattern's gauge and yours, and it gives you the adjusted counts.
When to use it
Calculating the stitch count to knit a sweater, hat, or scarf to the size you want, rescaling a pattern to your own gauge when a different yarn or needle changed it, or checking that the gauge you measured from a swatch matches the pattern.
Tips
For an accurate gauge, knit a generous swatch (say 15×15cm) with the exact yarn and needles you'll use, and measure the center 10cm excluding the edges. If your gauge is tighter than the pattern, go up a needle size; if looser, go down. Some yarns change size after washing and blocking, so washing the swatch once gives a more accurate result.