What does knitting tension mean?
Tension determines whether your garment will be the right size. Here is how to measure it.
Stitches and rows per 10 cm
Knitting tension, or gauge, tells you how many stitches and rows there are per 10 cm. Example: 18 sts × 26 rows = 10 cm.
Why it matters
If you knit 20 stitches instead of 18 over 10 cm, the garment will be about 10 % smaller. That can be a whole size.
How to measure it
Knit a tension swatch measuring at least 15 × 15 cm, wash it as you would the garment and leave it to dry. Then measure in the centre.
More guides
How do you choose yarn for a pattern?
Start with the yarn specified in the pattern – and know what to look for if you want to substitute it.
How much yarn do I need?
How to read the yarn requirements in a pattern and recalculate when you change size or yarn.
How do you substitute yarn in a knitting pattern?
Step by step: find a substitute yarn that gives the same size and feel.
How do you substitute yarn in a crochet pattern?
Crochet is more sensitive to yarn thickness – here is how to find a yarn that works.