Swatching

Yesterday, I started my swatch.

I swatch this time for two main reasons. Firstly, as this is a new yarn for me, to find the best needle size. And secondly, to decide how many pattern repeats I’ll cast on for.

I cast on 40 stitches for 2 pattern repeats (15*2+2+8) first on 5 mm (US 8) needles. I could see almost immediately that the fabric was turning out too loose. So I started again on 4.5 mm (US 7). I think this is the correct needle size – I live the drape of the fabric, it’s not too loose, and the leaves shape up beautifully.

I hope to finish it tonight, and then decide how many stitches I’d like to cast on.

Have any of you swatched? Share you pictures in comments!

6 Comments

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  1. 2
    Carleen

    Finished a swatch using 24/7 Cotton by Lion Brand in Cool Grey. I like using a yarn with a little shine.
    I went to a size 7/4.50 knitting needle

  2. 4
    Carleen

    When I’ve made before, I followed your instructions, casting on 100. Recipients have loved it as stroller or car seat blanket.

    If I were to go little larger, how many more repeats would you suggest?

    • 5
      leilalieva

      This time I have cast on (about to publish the post) for 9 repeats – my yarn is thinner this time than usual. If you’re using the same-sex yarn and needles as before, 9 repeats will mean your blanket will be 1/3 wider. If you’d like just a bit larger, you may want to add just 15 stitches for 1 more pattern repeats.

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