How to Check Crochet Gauge (and Fix It)

Gauge (called tension in UK patterns) is how many stitches and rows fit in 4 inches. A pattern's sizes only come out right at its gauge. Our gauge calculator compares your swatch with the pattern and tells you what to do.

Measuring a swatch

1. Crochet a square a little bigger than 4 in (10 cm), in the pattern's stitch, with the yarn and hook you'll use.
2. Block it the way you'll block the finished piece.
3. Count the stitches across 4 in in the middle, away from the edges. Do the same for rows.

An example

The pattern says 16 stitches to 4 in, and you get 18. You crochet about 13% tighter, so a 50 in blanket would come out about 44 in. The calculator suggests going up two hook sizes, from 5 mm to 6 mm. Or keep your hook and start with more stitches: for 50 in at your gauge, chain 225.

When gauge matters

For hats, garments and anything that has to fit, it matters a lot. For blankets and scarves a little difference is fine, but it changes how much yarn you need: check with the yarn calculator.