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Wool and Yarn > Knitting > Checking Tension In Knitting

Checking Tension In Knitting


Checking tension in knitting

It is very important as you knit to check your tension before you start. Every knitting pattern quotes a tension measurement and it is vital that you stick to it to get success out of your work. The tension measurement refers to the number of stitches and rows produced in each square inch, using a certain weight of yarn and the correct knitting needle size.

It is very important as you knit to check your tension before you start. Every pattern quotes a tension measurement and it is vital that you stick to it to get success out of your work. The tension measurement refers to the number of stitches and rows produced in each square inch, using a certain weight of yarn and the correct size.

Checking tension in knitting is very easy to do. To make a tension check you need to knit a square about 3 or 4 inches in the stitch the pattern gives you. You must use the appropriate yarn and correct needle size, which is quoted in the pattern. Press the square lightly and leave it for a few hours to settle back to its natural size. Then you lay it on a flat surface and carefully measure out a 2 inch square in the centre of your knitted piece and mark this area with pins.

The next step is to count the number of stitches and rows in this particular area and then check it against the measurement which is quoted in the pattern. For example, if the pattern quotes a tension measurement of seven stitches to the inch then you should have 14 stitches and 18 rows in your marked out square. If you find you have fewer stitches and rows then try another square using a smaller needle. Alternatively, if you find out you have more stitches and rows than the number given in the pattern, then try another sample square using a size bigger needle.

Continue to work a few sample squares until you achieve the correct tension. As you get more confident in your work and more experienced, you will get to know yourself and if you habitually knit tighter than average automatically use a size larger needle than the one recommended. Until you have tried a few times and made a few samples you can't know this and it very, very important to check your tension. Checking tension in knitting and crocheting is time certainly not wasted. And if you spend a little time getting it right at the beginning, then you will guarantee success of your finished product.
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