Stitch multiples calculator
Your pattern says something like “chain a multiple of 4 + 2”. Type those two numbers in, and add your width if you want the closest chain count for your project.
How to use the stitch multiples calculator
Type the two numbers from your pattern, the “multiple of” and the “plus”, and the calculator lists every chain count that works. Add your width and your gauge, and it gives you the one chain count closest to the size you want.
- Find the line in your pattern that says something like “chain a multiple of 4 + 2”. Type 4 in the Multiple box and 2 in the Plus box. If there is no plus number, type 0.
- If you only need a list of chain counts that fit the pattern, you can stop here. The list shows up right away.
- Want a certain width? Type how wide you want your project to be, and pick inches or cm.
- Make a small swatch with your yarn, hook and stitch. Count how many stitches you get across 4 inches (or 10 cm), and type that number in the Your gauge box.
- Read your answer. The big number is the chain count to start with. Under it you see the two closest counts, one a little narrower and one a little wider, so you can choose.
Worked example
Say your blanket pattern says “chain a multiple of 4 + 2”, and you want the blanket 36 inches wide. Your swatch has 14 stitches across 4 inches.
Type 4 and 2, then 36 inches, then 14. The calculator says you need about 126 stitches across, so you chain 126. That fits the pattern exactly, because 4 x 31 + 2 = 126. The next count up, 130 chains, would make the blanket about 37.1 inches wide.
Questions about the stitch multiples calculator
What does “a multiple of 4 + 2” mean?
It means your starting chain must be a number you get by multiplying 4 by any whole number, then adding 2. So 6, 10, 14, 18 and so on all work. The 4 is the stitch repeat, and the 2 is the extra chains for the edges and turning.
Why does my chain have to fit the multiple?
The stitch pattern repeats across the row. If your chain is a few short or a few over, the last repeat will not fit and the row ends in the wrong place. Fitting the multiple keeps both edges neat and even.
My starting chain is always tight. What can I do?
Many crocheters make the starting chain with a hook one size bigger, then switch back to the pattern hook for the first row. It keeps the bottom edge from pulling in. It also helps to count your chains carefully before you start the first row.
Do I need to make a swatch?
Only if you want a certain width. The list of chain counts works without one. For a width, your swatch tells the calculator how many stitches fit in an inch. If your rows come out too tall or short, this simple gauge trick can help.
What to do next
Making a blanket? Check the standard baby blanket sizes first, then come back and find your starting chain.
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