I need some reassurance - gauge

Correct.

Correct.

Leastways, that is the way I have always done it.

You're doing a swatch to check your gauge, right? It's better to cast on a few extra stitches and work a few extra rows. Block the swatch. Then mark out a 4-inch square within the center of the swatch and count the stitches and rows within the square. A good basic knitting book will explain and illustrate this.

I agree, go a little big , wash and block as you will the final product. Then measure and check guage. Coggie

Padishar,

I have made many sweaters and I do as coggie says. And you will have a sweater that has the same specs and sizes as the patter if it is correct Dennis

Padishar,

Did you get your ID from the book " the Heritage of Shannara by Terry Brooks" ? He used to be my attorney when I lived in Sterling, IL. I know Padishar Creel is a character in the book. Dennis

Also the " Sword of Shannara".

--------- I did indeed steal the ID from the book, very impressed with his initial work.

Padishar Creel

------------ Well I finished the gauge swatch. I am amazed but it came out "exactly" the correct size. I agree that I should have put a few rows of garter stitch before beginning my gauge as well as adding additional cast on stitches. Being this is my first try at getting a gauge I was pretty happy with my result.

I will make the garment a little larger...I am making a sweater out of the Knitwit book. I have a coach, a supportive wife and all sorts of workmates cheering me on, but you guys remain my "core" of inspiration.

Padishar Creel

You should probably cast on a few more stitches, like 35 and measure the stitches in the middle. The end stitches may not be the same size as those in the center of the row. Same with the rows, though you probably only need to measure 2"/5cm to get an idea how many rows/inch. Row gauge isn't nearly as important as your stitches, so if they're off a bit, don't worry about it, just get the stitch gauge correct.

sue

I cast on a row with at least five more stitches than called for, and then knit at least five rows more than called for. Then I measure the required number to see if it fits the gauge. ALternatively, if you have lots of yarn, you can always make a square, which you can save and eventually you will have enough squares for an afghan. If you have JUST enough yarn, you can start knitting a sleeve. After you have five or six inches done, check your gauge. If it is right, then all is well, plus you have part of a sleeve done. If it is wrong, you have wasted no more time than if you had knitted a gauge square. Is that clear? (It is quite early for me. )

Higs, Katherine

Padishar,

He is a great person. Very cordial and polite, not like most attorneys. He does not do very much with his practice any more. Mostly just writes. Being an avid reader, he was a great person to talk to and he enjoyed talking about his favorite profession. We lost contact over the years. I should give him a call.

Good luck on the sweater you will do fine. Hugs & God bless, Dennis & Gail