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Ready to knit socks that fit like a dream? If your past pairs ended up too tight, too loose, or just plain off… let’s fix that! Today we’re talking about the not-so-secret sauce of sock success: getting your gauge right—especially when knitting in the round.
Join me today for some pro tips, joyful encouragement, and the exact tools you need to get stitch-perfect results every time.
Gauge is how many stitches and rows you knit per inch—and in sock knitting, it’s everything. If your gauge is off, your sock may not fit the foot it’s intended for.
Here’s the kicker: When you knit in the round, your tension might be different than when you knit flat. That means you can’t rely on a flat swatch. You’ve got to swatch in the round to get an accurate read.
Step 1: Cast On the number of stitches listed in the pattern.
Add about 10 more stitches than the pattern gauge suggests—this gives you some wiggle room to measure the center area accurately.
Step 2: Use the Magic Loop or DPNs
Create a mini tube using the same method you’ll use for the socks: magic loop or double-pointed needles. This replicates your actual sock knitting conditions.
Step 3: Knit a Few Inches
Aim for at least 2–3 inches of stockinette. You want enough fabric to measure stitch and row counts without edge distortion.
Step 4: Measure the Center
Lay your swatch flat, don’t stretch it, and count the stitches per inch across the center. If the number doesn’t match the pattern gauge…
Step 5: Adjust Your Needle Size
Too many stitches per inch? Go up a needle size.
Too few? Go down a size.
Swatch again if needed until your stitch count is just right.
Q: How do I measure gauge when knitting in the round?
A: Knit a swatch in the round using the magic loop method or DPNs, lay it flat, and measure stitches per inch across the center.
Q: What needle size should I use to adjust gauge?
A: If your swatch has too many stitches per inch, go up a needle size. If too few, go down a size until it matches the pattern.
Q: Why is knitting gauge important for socks?
A: Gauge ensures your socks fit comfortably. Incorrect gauge can lead to socks that are too tight or loose, affecting wearability.
Knitting socks that actually fit isn’t magic—it’s gauge. And when you know how to swatch in the round and adjust your needles like a pro, you’re unstoppable.
Ready to get started?
Shop sock yarns and must-have notions at Southern Skeins.
