Knitting

Free Patterns, Tutorials and Project Ideas

Yes, Row Gauge Matters

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secrets of row gauge: yes, it really mattersMost of the time when we care about gauge at all, we knitters tend to fixate on stitch gauge, that is, the number of stitches per inch. Ensuring that stitch gauge is the same as the pattern calls for means we’ll end up with a garment that’s actually the size the pattern says it will be (which in turn means it will fit us or the desired recipient).

We’re not usually as careful when it comes to row gauge, but that can cause problems if it’s wildly off.

Patty Lyons recently shared her secrets of row gauge, and why it’s important to hit row gauge, too (spoiler: sleeves).

I particularly like the reminder that if you really want your knitting to be accurate, you’ll measure your blocked swatch for row gauge and count rows instead of measuring the knitting on the needle when you need to work to a certain length. I don’t know that I’d ever actually do that, but it is a super smart idea.

Do you care about row gauge? Ever been burned by a gauge problem? I’d love to hear about it.

[Photo: Patty Lyons.]

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Free Knitted Crown Pattern for Kids and Adults: A Sweet Handmade Dress-Up Idea

There’s something wonderfully charming about a knitted crown. It’s playful, useful for the dress-up basket, and just the sort of small project that gives a leftover ball of yarn a proper purpose. Much better than letting it roll around the cupboard for another three years.

This free knitted crown pattern for kids and adults combines a simple garter-stitch band with shaped triangular points. The mustard-gold colour gives it that storybook crown look, although pink, purple or woodland green would be equally lovely.

A Manageable Next Step for Beginner Knitters

The construction is the appealing part of this design. Everything is knitted flat, so you won’t need double-pointed needles or experience joining stitches in the round.

You knit the band first, then work each crown point separately over a group of 12 stitches. Paired decreases gradually narrow each triangle, giving you a small, repeatable section to concentrate on.

I’d describe this as a confident beginner knitting project. You’ll need to know how to knit, work two types of decreases, hold unused stitches and sew a simple seam. There are several yarn tails to weave in, so a little patience with finishing will help.

Three Sizes With Room to Personalise

The pattern includes three sizes, with seven, eight or nine crown points. Choose by the wearer’s head measurement rather than age, and check your gauge carefully. Yarn stretch will make a noticeable difference to the fit.

For birthdays, an embroidered initial would be a sweet finishing touch. Contrasting yarn diamonds could suggest little jewels without adding hard embellishments.

What to Know Before Casting On

This is a soft knitted crown, so expect gentle points rather than a rigid costume accessory. A springy wool or wool-blend yarn should give the shaping more support than a very drapey yarn.

The stitch calculations have been checked, but the design has not yet been sample-knitted. The accompanying image is an illustrative mockup, so the finished texture and proportions may vary with your yarn and tension.

For a small handmade birthday accessory or a cheerful addition to the dress-up box, this is an appealing idea. And if an adult needs a matching crown for supervising the royal household, the larger size has that covered too.