Knitting Stitch Count
Calculator

Inputs

Stitches per cm
2.2

Results

Stitches per cm
2.2
Stitches (exact)
110
Stitches to cast on
110
Actual width at gauge (cm)
49.999999

Craft results

Stitches per cm2.2
Stitches (exact)110
Stitches to cast on110
Actual width at gauge (cm)49.999999

formula-map diagram

Stitches per cm
2.2
Stitches (exact)
110
Stitches to cast on
110
Actual width at gauge (cm)
49.999999

Formula breakdown

Formula

sts = width × (gauge ÷ 10)

= 2.2

Note

Simplified model: these are standard craft estimates based on rectangular layouts, quoted gauge and nominal densities. Real fabric nap, directional prints, shrinkage, pattern matching, yarn lots and supplier SAP values vary, so always make a swatch or test piece and buy a little extra.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a gauge swatch and why does the calculator need it?+

A gauge swatch is a small sample, usually knit at least 4x4 inches, measured to find stitches per inch. Since everyone knits at a slightly different tension, the calculator uses your actual swatch measurement rather than the pattern's stated gauge to get an accurate stitch count for your project.

Why do I need to cast on a different number of stitches than the pattern says?+

The pattern's stitch counts are based on the designer's gauge; if your gauge is tighter or looser, using the pattern's numbers directly will produce a garment that's the wrong size. This calculator rescales the stitch count to match your gauge for the same finished width.

Does blocking affect my gauge and the stitch count I should use?+

Yes, many yarns relax or grow when blocked (especially wool and lace-weight yarns), so swatching, then blocking the swatch the same way you'll block the finished piece, gives a more accurate gauge than measuring an unblocked swatch.

Why does a small gauge difference cause such a different total stitch count?+

Gauge differences compound across the full width of a garment: a difference of even half a stitch per inch can add up to several stitches, or an inch or more of width, over a 40-inch sweater body.

Should I round the stitch count up or down?+

Round to the nearest whole stitch, and to an even number if the stitch pattern requires it (like ribbing in multiples of 2 or 4). Rounding down slightly is usually safer than up if the pattern has any ease built in, since a slightly smaller finished size is easier to fix by blocking than a too-large one.