subject: Crochet -How to make a Gauge Swatch [print this page] Crochet -How to make a Gauge Swatch Crochet -How to make a Gauge Swatch
The best way to ensure that you're working to the proper gauge is to crochet a gauge swatch, which is a reduced sample of the pattern. This allows you to work a small section of fabric to see how close you are to the given measurements. It also gives you the opportunity to practice the stitch pattern, which is really nice if it's a complicated one or is comprised of stitches you haven't worked before.
Working a gauge swatch is a very simple process and only takes a few minutes. If you're like me, you probably want to jump right in and start working on the project itself. But, again if you're like me, you've done this and cried over the finished design, wondering why it didn't come out right. Nine times out of ten the answer will be the gauge was off.
Getting the gauge right is very important. Don't skip this step. You need to make a gauge swatch whether you're working in rows or rounds:
Stitching a square: To get an accurate measurement, the swatch should be at least 4 inches square, but it can be larger depending on the pattern. Read the gauge specifications at the beginning of the pattern, and then work the stitches for that pattern that accommodate those measurements.
Working a round: The measurements given for a circular gauge will tell you what the diameter is for a given number of rounds. Follow the instructions for the pattern, being sure to crochet an extra few rounds above and beyond the number given for the gauge. This ensures that you can take a measurement in the middle of the piece, because the first and last round may be shorter or taller than a normal round, depending on the stitches used.
Typically, simple patterns that use one or two stitches repeated will give the gauge over 4 inches. For example, 12 sc and 8 rows measure 4 inches square. In this case, you would chain a few more stitches than noted and work rows of single crochet, without increasing or decreasing, until you've worked a few more rows than required.
To put this theory into practice, you can try your hand at making a quick gauge swatch using the double crochet stitch. Grab some yarn and a hook anything will do.
Gauge: 11 dc = 4 in.
Chain 20, turn, work one double crochet in the 4th chain from the hook, work one double crochet in each chain across.
Continue to work in rows of double crochet until the square measures slightly more than 4 inches square.
When you've finished your swatch, take a set of gauge measurements. Then you can finish the swatch as you would the finished design, which typically involves blocking, a process that evens out the stitches and allows you to shape the piece. Depending on the type of yarn (don't forget to read the label), you can usually just wet or steam the swatch, shape it, and allow it to dry. Then take another set of measurements. This will give you an accurate gauge.
Your measurements may change, so if necessary, you should adjust your hook size based on the second set of measurements, which reflects a more accurate gauge. This is especially important when making garments: If your gauge shrinks (or grows) after blocking, you'll end up with a different size garment than you intended, which wouldn't do at all.
