Knitters: gauge question

brandall

The pattern says that gauge is 5.5 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch in the round. How many stitches would you cast on? I'm terrible at doing gauge swatches, but want to get this right. It's just painful to have to do so much "waste" knitting, especially if I don't get gauge the first time! Thanks for your help!

Reinedumonde

A "standard" gauge swatch is 4x4 inches, so that would be 22 stitches.  I usually like to cast on 1-2 more stitches on each side (24-26) so I don't have to fight the curling so much and then only knit about 2 inches.  That said, my gauge is fairly consistent, so if you have any doubts about yours, knit the full 4".

brandall

It says to knit the swatch in the round. Would you do that, or can I get away with knitting a flat swatch? I really haven't knit many gauge swatches because I haven't really knit garments. I'm knitting gloves and want to make sure I don't mess them up . Thank you for your help!

Reinedumonde

I don't think I've ever knit a gauge swatch in the round.  But again, I'm pretty confident with my gauge that I've never had a problem.  I think with something like gloves, you can get away with a flat swatch--there's a little bit of leeway with ease anyway.