How to Make a Crochet Gauge Smaller

Because the finished size is not critical, baby blanket patterns may not include a stitch gauge.

The crochet gauge is defined as the stitch tension. Gauge is expressed in two common units: stitches per inch and rows per inch. Crochet patterns, especially for fitted apparel such as tops and slippers, typically include a stitch gauge to ensure that the finished article is the correct size. Patterns for items such as baby blankets, shawls and afghans may not include a stitch gauge. If you are using a pattern that is too large, but want the proportions of the item to be the same as the original pattern, you may decrease the stitch gauge. Several simple methods may be used, alone or in combination, to reduce the stitch gauge.

Things You'll Need

• Crochet hook
• Yarn
• Ruler

Instructions

1. Crochet a sample swatch to check the gauge of your stitches. As an example, the stitch gauge on the pattern may state: four stitches equal 1 inch and three rows equal 1 inch. Chain four. Crochet three rows, each four stitches long, with the indicated stitch. Measure and note the length and width of the finished sample swatch.

2. Compare the dimensions of the sample swatch to the stitch-gauge dimensions listed on the pattern. If your sample swatch is too small, then the tension of your stitches is too high (tight). If your sample swatch is too large, your stitch tension is too low (loose). To reduce the stitch gauge, you will have to increase the stitch tension, use a smaller crochet hook or change to a smaller-gauge yarn.

3. Crochet a sample-stitch gauge swatch. For the first swatch, crochet the indicated number of stitches and rows using a crochet hook at least 1/2 mm smaller than that recommended on the pattern. Measure the swatch. If it is still too large, crochet another sample-stitch gauge swatch.

4. Crochet another sample-stitch gauge swatch, using the smaller crochet hook and tighter yarn tension. Increasing yarn tension will result in smaller, tighter stitches. Measure the swatch. If the stitches are still too large, crochet another swatch using a smaller hook, tighter stitches and lighter (thinner) yarn.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have tried all of these techniques to make your finished crocheted piece smaller and the resulting swatches are still too large, you may have to use a different or modified pattern.

References

• Crochet Cabana; Sandra Petit; 2010: Gauge
• Annie's Attic: Yarn FAQ's
• Smart Knitting - Crocheting: Beginner Crochet