Packing for the journey, continued.
Last time I rambled on about yarn, but you’ll need more than yarn to get started! Your map (the pattern) will often give you a list of tools you’ll need – needles, various types of markers, yarn needle, stitch holders, etc. The most important of these is of course needles. People are funny – some have to have the latest and the greatest, some can happily use the old nylon needles they inherited from Great-Aunt Matilda. Material doesn’t matter as much as size, and you’ll determine which size you need by swatching (aww, I can already hear the moaning!) Be guided by the size(s) of needles the designer used, but have on hand some that are larger and smaller in diameter.
To swatch: cast on (at a minimum) the number of stitches in 4 inches that the pattern gauge calls for, PLUS 2. The reason for the additional stitches is that the edge stitches are always a bit distorted and should not be included in your gauge measurements. Start with the recommended needle size, work in the stitch pattern called for in the gauge for 4″ PLUS 2 rows. (Same reason – you don’t want to count your cast-on row or the row right under the needle in your gauge.) Bind off, and block, unless the designer has specified that the gauge is before blocking. Measure across the swatch between the edge stitches. If it measures less than 4 inches, you’ll need to re-swatch with a larger needle. If the swatch is too big, you’ll need to re-swatch with a smaller needle, and likewise, if the swatch is too small, you’ll swatch again with a larger needle.
A word or two about blocking your swatch: Throw it in a sink or bowl of water, let it soak through, squeeze out excess water, wrap in a towel and squeeze out some more, then lay it out on a flat surface. Don’t stretch it, just smooth it out and square it up and leave it until it’s dry. Then measure as above.
If the width of your swatch is correct, count the rows. They should be close to what the designer specifies, but this is generally not as crucial as stitch gauge, because many patterns specify lengths in inches to knit rather than the number of rows. If, however, your row gauge is way off, this could affect how much yarn you’ll need and the drape and wear of your fabric, the rate of increases or decreases on sleeves, and other things, depending on the type of project and the fit you’re aiming for.
Now, once you have achieved the right gauge, do you pull out your swatch so you’re not wasting yarn? I don’t consider swatches a waste. I keep them. They can help you determine just how washable that washable yarn really is – throw the swatch in the washing machine to see what happens, not your finished sweater. Also, it’s easy to tuck a swatch in your handbag if you’re trying to match it with something else, rather than take an entire baby blanket or sweater with you.
There are of course other things you’ll need for your journey. Some knitters are bare bones – give them yarn and needles, and they’ll figure out how to cope with anything else. Stitch holder – Bah! I have extra yarn to thread the stitches onto. Markers – ridiculous! I have twist ties, or loops of yarn, or safety pins. Point protectors – Hah! Rubber bands work better. (I agree with this one, BTW.) Then there are some who love their tools and notions and always want the latest, the cutest. A dozen types of markers, row counters of all sizes and stripes, yarn cutters, scissors, hooks, pointers, apps, bags, and so on, ad infinitum. Whatever makes you happy and makes your knitting easier!
These are the things I like to have at hand when I start any project.
Meanwhile, my project is 3/4 done, I’m happy to say. I haven’t taken it to work on at the shop because it required a close eye on the chart throughout the body.. It’s been a lovely knit so far, with just sleeves and neckband to complete, so I’m getting there. I’ve been disciplined and not been distracted, even though new yarns are singing their siren songs and trying to tempt me – maybe just a swatch with the new Lang, or even just a cuddle with the new Pascuali glowing fuzzily at me from its eco-friendly packaging:
I’ve been good, though, only working while at the store on a pair of socks and this wonderful fast scarf in Berroco’s soft and colorful Coco. Free pattern, quick and impressive gift!
Next time: Finally, we’re ready for take-off!
