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Knitting & crochet gauge calculator

Find how many stitches to cast on and rows to work for a target size, or convert a pattern to your own gauge.

Gauge measured over

Your stitches per 4 in / 10 cm

Your rows per 4 in / 10 cm

Target width

Target length

Stitch repeat: multiple of

plus

The formula

Stitches = target width × (stitches in gauge ÷ gauge width). With 20 stitches per 4 inches, a 20-inch-wide piece needs 20 × 20 ÷ 4 = 100 stitches. Rows work the same way with length.

To convert a pattern, the finished width with your gauge is pattern stitches ÷ your stitches per inch, and the stitches you need for the pattern’s width are pattern stitches × your gauge ÷ pattern gauge.

How to use it

Knit or crochet a swatch at least 6 × 6 inches (15 × 15 cm) in your pattern stitch, then wash and dry it as you will the finished piece.
Count stitches and rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in the middle of the swatch.
Enter your gauge and the size you want, or the pattern’s gauge and stitch count to convert.
Use the stitch count shown, rounded to your stitch repeat if the pattern has one.

Questions

What is gauge in knitting and crochet?

Gauge (also called tension) is how many stitches and rows fit in a set width and height, usually 4 inches or 10 cm. It decides the finished size of anything you make.

My gauge does not match the pattern. What should I do?

If you have more stitches per 4 inches than the pattern, your fabric is tighter: try a larger needle or hook. If you have fewer, try a smaller one. Or use the converter here to change the stitch counts to your gauge.

Should I measure my swatch before or after blocking?

After. Wash and dry the swatch the way you will treat the finished item, because many fibres grow or shrink when wet.