Name
Measure Up: Gauge Basics
Date
Saturday, June 13, 2020
Time
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Photos

Session Type:
2-Hour Class
Skill Level:
Beginner
Teacher
Patty Lyons
Category
Projects & Patterns, Tips & Techniques
Class Details:

You keep hearing about gauge, but you’re not quite sure what all the fuss is about. If the fear of “not getting gauge” is stopping you from moving into sweater knitting, fear no more. In this class we’ll cover all the basics of gauge: how to make and measure a swatch, explore how needle size, as well as needle material can change your gauge, and learn about blocking and hanging your swatch. We’ll have hands on practice for measuring and experiment with needle size changes on your knitting. We will also look at more complex gauge issues such as gauge in a pattern stitch and look at pattern examples to figure out how to make an “in pattern” gauge swatch. Finally we’ll learn some easy math so you can figure out if your gauge will work for your pattern. Don’t let gauge scare you away from knitting the sweater of your dreams. Technique Requirements: knit/purl; cast on/bind off

Homework:

Swatch #1
Cast on 24 stitches, knit in stockinette for 5 inches

Swatch #2
5” x 5” swatch in any stitch pattern (seed, moss, basketweave, lace, cable etc.).

DO NOT BIND OFF SWATCHES. All swatches are to be put on a stitch holder or leave on a needle, leave plenty of yarn attached to these swatches, we will be working them. Leave on needle with yarn attached, we will be working them.

Supplies for Class:

Yarn: Heavy worsted weight or chunky yarn (gauge 14 - 16 stitches per 4 inches) NO NOVELTY YARN, NO TEXTURED YARN, LIGHT COLORED YARN ONLY

Needles & Hooks: US 9–11, (the sizes you used to make your swatches, check ball band of yarn used), double pointed needle in a small size or a tapestry needle A variety of needles larger and smaller than the one used to make the swatch in a variety of materials (metal, wood, plastic). Just what you already own.

Accessories: Ruler, calculator, paper & pen. OPTIONAL: bring a knitting pattern with gauge examples you’d like to explore

Day
Saturday