Crochet Gauge

When you learn to crochet, gauging can be one of the most confusing tasks. What is crochet gauge? Simply, your are figuring how many stitches and rows are in an inch. Gauge is something you have to figure for your crochet style. Patterns will give you a gauge for a project. You need to determine if your style will produce those same results. If not, experiment with larger or smaller hooks until you achieve the proper gauge. Gauge is the measurement from a starting point to an ending point. The easiest way to determine your gauge is to crochet a swatch of the pattern stitches you will be using in your project. A 4X4 inch swatch should be sufficient to estimate your gauge.

The designer of a pattern will create a gauge by default, just by the weight of the yarn and the size of the hook they use. Gauge is also determined by your tension, how tight or loose you hold your yarn when crocheting. Gauge determines the finished size of your project. If your gauge is too small, try a hook one size larger. If it is too big, use a smaller one.

Say you have a pattern that calls for a "J" hook and a 4-ply yarn. You have a 3-ply yarn you like and want to use a "H" hook. You will need more stitches across the pattern because these are smaller. You will need to determine how many stitches you will need to do to achieve the measurements in the pattern. You need to get the width right at the beginning so you don't end up ripping out your work. Gauging your work is especially important if your project is a clothing item.

Happy Crocheting!!

Beth