Hello,
I’m a baby at this–just starting really. So I did this new-knitter thing. I found a sweater pattern, realized it was too big, and just decided on a number of stitches that seemed right, and now am recognizing I need specifics for the sleves and neck. It’s a sweater knit on round needles from the bottom up. Do you think I should scrap it, chalk it up to experience and begin again, or is there some way of figuring out a new ratio?
Thanks so much for your response,
Amanda
Does the pattern have a diagram that shows the outline of the finished pieces and their measurements? If so, you can absolutely work from where you are. Check the gauge you have been knitting at so far (stitches in 1"), check a few different places on the project just to make sure! Now figure out how many stitches you are shooting for to reach the intended final measurements.
If the pattern specifies increases/decreases at intervals in inches, you are all set. If your pattern specifies them in rows (e.g. decrease 1 sts at either end, repeat every 4th row), you will also need to check your row gauge (is that what it’s really called folks? Can’t quite remember) to make sure you do the right number of rows between increases/decreases.
Now, I have never gotten the math right for figuring out how to make the set-in sleeves match, so I recommend just picking up stitches around the armpits and knitting sleeves down from the top (rather than up from the cuff and then attaching them). Or maybe someone else here can give a better solution.
Personally, I would frog because I prefer to repeat work than do a bunch of calculations and aggravation. But it is possible, and I have done it, lol.
Is the pattern available free online? If so, post the link and we can give you a better idea of how much calculation you face 
For the shaping, you figure out what they are in inches, then convert to stitches or rows in your gauge. If the shaping is over just a couple rows, then use the rows.
http://www.theanticraft.com/archive/samhain05/curseyourbf.htm
The link appears above–thanks so much guys for your response. Its a cool site–but I realized that their design (even the smallest one) is for a larger man and my boyfriend is actually five foot four and skinny.
I’m glad to hear I don’t have to scrap everything, potentially–I mean it won’t be pretty anyway as its the first one, but I am quite excited!
Thanks again!
O and I’m not intending to curse anyone at the mo!(relevant to pattern you will see)…
Ooo, that is nice. I like the pattern too, added it to my Ravelry queue. Are you going to do the heart?
Anyway, it looks pretty straight forward. I don’t see any obvious tricks, though don’t pick up sts for the arms as I said you might be able to. You are better off adjusting the length of the sleeves but otherwise following the pattern.
I am going to do the heart I think–over the heart–they have it more central, I think; although my friend thinks it looks more like a paw with claws…
Thanks again so much for the help!