Expert: Frances Rhea - 4/10/2010

Question
QUESTION: I'm an intermediate crocheter having successfully produced complicated thread projects and even a sweater. I'm trying more garments but my yarn gauge swatches come out with the correct number of stitches but the height (rows) are too short/small. Aren't height and width in proportion? Does changing to a larger hook not mean fewer stitches per inch? Thanks. Seems such a basic & silly thing.

ANSWER: You are correct about switching hook sizes. The best part of the gauge to match is the number of stitches across. If you have to add a row or two to get the correct height (no of rows), it is no big deal.

Fran

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QUESTION: The pattern calls for 15 stitches + 6 rows for a 4x4 swatch in a "v" stitch. After 6 rows I'm only at 3" high. Over the course of the garment won't it make a significant difference? The pattern is Lion Brand #60579 "Elegant Shell." I'm using Bernat's organic cotton, same worsted weight. There are no sleeves worry about.
The second problem with the "Julianna" pattern from Melissa Leapman's book CoolCrochet. I'm using Omega's Sinfonia yarn and have a similar problem, swatch actually a bit too wide but still short. If I switch to a smaller hook won't it compound the problem? It's an advanced pattern but doesn't look that bad. Thank you for your help.

Answer
Yes, it will make a signigicant difference. You could try to teach yourself to make taller stitches by making your loops larger. The other alternative is to add 2 rows extra for every six which should make your garment the correct length. It will take some creativity and watching to make sure that if there are increases or shaping that you add an extra row or two between shaping rows.

Hope this helps.

Fran