Knitting Gauge & Stitch Calculator
Calculate cast-on stitches and total rows needed for any knitted piece from gauge swatch measurements.
Results
What is it?
Gauge is the number of stitches and rows in a 4-inch (10 cm) square knitted in your chosen yarn and stitch pattern. It is the single most important measurement in knitting because it converts pattern dimensions into actual stitch and row counts. Cast-on stitches = (finished width / 4) x stitch gauge. Total rows = (finished length / 4) x row gauge.
How to use
Knit a gauge swatch at least 6 inches square in your yarn and stitch pattern. Block the swatch (wet it, pin to measurements, let dry). Measure stitches and rows over 4 inches in the center of the swatch. Enter these measurements and your desired finished dimensions.
Example scenario
Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows per 4 inches. Desired finished size: 20 inches wide, 24 inches long. Cast on = round(20 x 18 / 4) = 90 stitches. Total rows = round(24 x 24 / 4) = 144 rows.
Pro tip
Always swatch in the yarn AND needles AND stitch pattern you will use for the project. Row gauge is often secondary to stitch gauge in patterns, but critical for colorwork and shaped pieces. If your gauge is off, try different needle sizes — one needle size up or down typically shifts gauge by about 1 stitch per 4 inches. Never skip swatching for fitted garments.