I knit a 2x2 ribbing swatch for the Gansey sweater that I keep going on about. it has 22 stitches x 20 rows and I got the 4" result that was indicated for the pattern. However, I am using size 7 needles and the ball band indicates size 10. Is this going to be a problem? I am using Valley Yarn’s Berkshire Bulky.
Claudia
The needle size recommended in the pattern and on a ballband are just that, recommendations. As long as you’re getting gauge and like the tension of the knit fabric you should be fine.
That said, the pattern calls for worsted weight and the Berkshire is bulky. Is it really ok in your swatch?
the gauge works, but the fabric is pretty stiff. Do you think I should move up a needle size or two?
If you move up a needle size you may change the gauge too much or at least, more than you can tolerate. You always give it a try.
The problem is more likely the bulky yarn. The pattern is calling for more of a worsted weight yarn.
salmonmac,
I just finished a swatch of 2x2 using #9 and again got the correct gauge (4" square give or take)an 1/8 of an inch, but the fabric is squishier than the one on the size 7 - so, I think I am okay using the #9. For purposes of the size of the sweater (it’s for my daughter) because I have the correct gauge, it should work, right? If not, I may just stash this yarn and order a worsted. Since this is a complicated pattern, I don’t want to waste the effort. What are your thoughts?
Hi! I’m going to chime in here because I had this happen to me. I may be wrong, but 1/8" bigger or smaller on a 4" swatch is a HUGE difference. Try to imagine an extra 1/8" every 4" of sweater both in width and length. It would add up to several extra inches! So either it’s going to be huge or super small.
The first sweater I ever knit I used bulky when it called for worsted. I got gauge using the wrong needle size and it was a disaster. It was super stiff and weird and the size was WAY off.
If it were me, I’d save the bulky for something to match the new sweater (maybe a scarf?) and order the correct size yarn for the pattern.
Good luck!
I agree with hatleystudio, best to order the correct weight yarn and save the bulky. There’s too much work ahead on this very good looking gansey to have to fiddle with gauge.
Are you measuring gauge across the middle 4" of your swatch? You don’t want to include edge sts which are smaller than the main body sts in the swatch. Better to measure over 2" in the center of the swatch.