Hello, I am knitting a shawl and knit a gauge. The size 6 needle is too small and the size 7 needle is a bit lacy.would it be ok to use one size 6 and one size 7 to knit the shawl…THANKS SO MUCH…Lillian
Are you knitting stockinette? Some knitters use a smaller needle on the purl side if their purls are looser but some knitters have looser knits. Needles of a different material can affect gauge also - your gauge with metal needles could be different from gauge with wood needles. What pattern are you using? Could you share a link please. Will gauge be that important?
I started out as a very tight knitter.
I would say use the smaller size needles, because it is easier go loosen your tension on the yarn than to knit tighter stitches on a larger needle.
Or you can use the right needle to pull the yarn farther through the stitch for a slightly larger stitch, even If you do not hold the yarn in your hand (or woven through fingers) as you knit.
Here is one vid on the subject. You can search for others if you like.
2 Likes
Hello, It was very kind of you to reply. The pattern is on Ravelry and the name is Pendulum by Amy Miller. I will try to send the link at the end of this email. Have you ever seen this pattern?
I’ve decided to use size 7 wooden needles. It’s also helpful for me to view the finished projects from Ravelry and review their notes or comments. I do have another question. The pattern indicates that the increase row should be made by using M1L on the second stitch and M1right on the next to last stitch. Many knitters said that this particular increase was too tight and caused the design to pucker. I have practiced with the M1L and M1R, KFB on the last stitch and also on one stitch from the edge. Do you have a preference for an increase used in this manner that would not compromise the garter stitch? Would a lift increase be better?? Your help is very much appreciated.
Thank you, Lillian
Thank you very much for your help. I will view the video. It was kind of you to reply tp my question.
Increases are very much a matter of personal preference. I tend to be lazy with garter stitch and use either kfb or a yo and ktbl on the next row, and I don’t often use m1 increases. I avoid having an increase or decrease involving the end stitch (first or last) of a row and prefer having it moved in a stitch or two simply because it makes a nicer edge My best suggestion is to play with increases and their placement on a swatch and see which ones you like better, and where. Gauge matters inasmuch as it could mean your shawl is a different size . If you’re happy with the fabric then it should be good.
Thanks for your reply…I will definitely practice a bit to determine what is best for this pattern…very good suggestion!!!
Lillian