ONE STEP AT A TIME
Make sense of a pattern before you cast on. Start with its construction, learn the abbreviations it uses and keep track of the row you are working.
Before your first stitch
- Read the project details. Check whether the piece is worked flat or in the round, its dimensions and the skills it uses.
- Prepare the materials. Check yarn weight, needle size and the pattern’s gauge information. A needle size is a starting point; your fabric and measurements matter.
- Follow the pattern’s definitions. Read its abbreviations and special instructions before a new technique. Keep your current row marked and count stitches at the specified checkpoints.
Explore the Column of Leaves scarf
This flat-knitted lace scarf has an eight-row repeat. The changing stitch count is part of the design: right-side rows finish with 41 stitches and wrong-side rows with 39.
Plan a baby cardigan
Age labels and finished garment measurements describe different things. Our four-design collection guide compares the available sizes and explains what to record before choosing your project.