Gauge swatch he**

[amyrobynne]

I recently got my first batch of LTK yarn and since I'll be using it to sell soakers soon, I figured I'd better be extra-good with the gauge swatching. I usually have to size down one size, but I was feeling optimistic and started with 6's, as suggested. I made a nice big swatch as indicated in the knitty.com link in the techniques section. 17-18 st per 4". I didn't expect that to be small enough, so I was still in a good mood as I made another big swatch with 5's. I could hardly tell the difference--maybe 18-19 st per 4". I dug out my 4's and did the swatch in the round, hoping that the lack of purling might help for some reason. It was looking good as I went, but after casting off, I determined that I was getting 20-21 st per 4". My fourth swatch was also in the round, but not too tall, as I worked my way around with THREES. This time, I got 21-22 st per 4". Thank goodness. I had to go to my LYS and buy 2's for the ribbing--I just refuse to use 1's with this yarn. The LYS cashier made my day when she said that she has to size down three sizes, too. I'm not THAT loose a knitter! The sz 6 swatch doesn't look loose, although the newest swatch is awfully nice and stretchy, I must admit. I'm now halfway done with the ribbing on the soaker itself.

What a headache.

[mamapez]

:hug There is a reason folks HATE gauge swatching with a passion! I feel for you, mama.

[willowsmama]

something in the air this weekend?

hmm, with Theresa's yarn all of a sudden I hit gauge on the suggested needles?


I swatched not 1, 2 or even 3 but 4 times for the blanket I'm knitting for Gavin. Size 8's my arse. more like 10 1/2.

[ravingcutie]

I always have to go down; usually 2 sizes. I knit on 3s & 5s when 5s & 7s are suggested

[amyrobynne]

Everything comes around--I just swatched the 2-ply and got it right the first time using 6's (only one size down). Even better, I already have all the necessary needles for that. Yippee!

Thanks for the encouragement, folks :)