Lesson 3 – Yarn, Working Method and Test Swatch Gauge

Knitware

Yarn, Working Method and Test Swatch Gauge

Lesson 3

We discussed a few areas of the Pattern Data screen in our last lesson. This lesson continues to move through the Pattern Data screen. Remember this is the most critical area of all Knitware programs. The information you enter here will impact your entire pattern and knitting experience.

If you like, open a Knitware Software Demo, Click
üOK twice, then click on Pattern Design.

We discussed Pattern Name, Size Data and the For Whom sections briefly in Lesson 2. You should have completed the homework and can select a Standard Size for someone you plan to knit for. If you work through those steps again and again the previous lesson will become easier to remember. We are moving forward to...

Yarn Information

Here you will identify your Yarn. You can complete each section or chose to leave some blank. Identifying your Yarn is helpful for future reference and organization. Any type of yarn is acceptable for use with the Knitware programs. This section will not have an impact on your pattern. It will however print as part of your pattern.

If you are working with an unidentified yarn simply give it a Name that makes sense for you.  Like Tweed or My Homespun, whatever describes it best for you. If available use the manufacturer's brand and yarn name.

Colour, is important.  As we know from experience that different colors work up with slight differences.  It is wise to add the dye lot information in this space along with the Color name.  When you look back through your projects you will remember how certain items looked and perhaps want to create similar items. 

Composition, enter here the make up of your yarn. If you are using a handspun you need to detail your fiber's make up. Same goes for commercial fiber.  Composition information is critical when deciding how to treat the swatch and the completed garment.  Use 100% Wool, or 20% Acrylic 80% Wool.

Washing instructions whether you use wool, blends, or 100% Acrylic, add this as you treat your swatch. You should expect to treat your garment the same way for its first washing. You could input the manufacturers washing instructions or decide based on your experience the best washing method.

When programs like this allow you to enter information, it is usually considered best to make your entries as detailed and clear as you like them.  Again the sections above will print with your pattern but are primarily for your information.

Working Method

Working Method is all about how you work with your fiber. It is important to remember and use all of the information here as it applies to you. So, what are you going to do? Will you Crochet? Hand Knit? or are Machine Knits your thing? You can change these options with each project. You aren't boxed in to any one method.

When you select Hand Knit, options for Needle Type are shown. This is very similar to Hook Type if you were to select Crochet.

If you use Crochet or Hand Knitting for the Body of your garment you must also use that method for Hem. You can however select a Machine Knit Body and use either Crochet or Hand Knitting techniques for your hems. There are ways around this if you are a Hand Knitter that has an amazing crocheted edge. Or a Machine Knitter who loves to Hand knit but does the best edgings on the knitting machine. That is for another lesson though.

You Must Swatch!

There has been much written about swatches and gauge. People who won't do them, people who can't live without them. Both sides have success. Knitware patterns will not be successful without good swatching You absolutely must swatch. If you won't swatch stop here. These lessons and Knitware will not be a benefit to you. That being said, If you already swatch and are happy with your method of swatching don't stop using it. If you need a method check out the lessons here Hand Knit Lesson 2 Beginning Techniques and here HKT83 - Basic Sweater Charting Part 2 Stitch Gauge.  One step I add to these wonderful methods is to measure your swatch before you wash or treat it.  You must check your working gauge as you knit and this pre-wash measurement is what you will want to match as you work.  

Once you have your swatch measurement, you will need to calculate the gauge over 4 inches / 10 Centimeters.  Either divide the number of stitches or rows by your measurement then multiply the per inch result by 4.  An easier method is also available within Knitware!  Use the Gauge Equivalents Calculator.

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