Reading Patterns Beginner
Understanding Stitch Counts
How to track the total number of stitches in a row or round to ensure your project stays the correct size.
Stitch counts are the most important “sanity check” in a pattern. They are usually found in parentheses at the end of each round or row.
Why they matter
If your stitch count is off, even by one, the shaping of your project will eventually warp. A hat might become a bowl, or a flat blanket might start to ripple.
How to count correctly
- Don’t count the loop on the hook: The loop currently on your hook is never a stitch.
- Count the “Vs”: Look at the top of your work. Each “V” shape represents one stitch.
- Use Stitch Markers: When working in the round, always place a marker in the first stitch of the round. This way, you always know exactly where to stop counting.
Increases and Decreases
- Increase (inc): When you work 2 stitches into 1, your stitch count for that round goes up by 1.
- Decrease (dec): When you join 2 stitches into 1, your stitch count goes down by 1.
Example: (Sc 2, inc) rep 6 times. Each repeat adds 1 stitch. If you start with 18 stitches, you will end with 24.