Knitting Machine Tips

The Lessons this Swatch Taught Me

October 21, 2024
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"Do I REALLY need to swatch? It's just a blanket."

I'm planning a hand knit blanket for my college-age granddaughter (college-age??? how is that possible? )

I found a cool knit and purl stitch pattern and almost fell into the trap of "I hate to swatch"

The first swatch told me that I didn't have the patience for the chosen stitch pattern. Right now, I don't have the brain power to work 7-8 cable patterns over 250 stitches. But the swatch did tell me I liked the yarn color, texture, and feel.

After frogging that swatch , I started another swatch with renewed enthusiasm.

This easy-to-remember stitch pattern is pretty (and the blanket won't become a UFO)

I need to remember to slip that first stitch for neat edges.

Machine knitters can add a slip stitch to the edges
Slipped Chain Edge Finish

Oops .. Garter stitch rows are shorter than ribbing.
Plan to block this out.

Garter stitch is W-I-D-E-R than the ribbing.
TIP:Cast on 10% fewer stitches, then increase when the garter rows are complete. Decrease stitches for the ending border

My gauge: 21sts /32rows = 4" 10cm

Swatch weight: = 18 grams 6" x 7.5"

How much yarn do I need?