What is crochet gauge or crochet tension?

Getting your gauge or tension right is just as important in crochet as it is for knitting. I hope my step-by-step guide helps you to achieve the perfect gauge or tension

Crochet gauge or crochet tension is the number of stitches and rows in a defined square of crochet fabric. You will usually measure this within a 10x10cm (4 x 4in) square.

The size of hook and yarn you are using will determine the size of your stitches.

For example, using a thicker yarn and a larger hook will create large crochet stitches, whereas using a thinner yarn and a smaller hook will create smaller crochet stitches.

In addition, the way you are sitting, or your current mood can also influence the size of your stitches. So if you’re feeling stressed, you’re more likely to crochet tightly, which will create small stitches.

Where do I find the information I need for Crochet Tension of Crochet Gauge?

The gauge or tension required for a pattern is listed in the information section at the beginning. You need to match this gauge or tension, to make sure that your project turns out to the correct size.

It’s important to remember that every crocheter works to their own gauge or tension. Therefore, there’s no guarantee that yours will match that of the pattern. If you crocheted a jumper without first checking your gauge, it could turn out too big or too small. Imagine all those hours of crochet that would be wasted.

TOP TIP: It’s essential therefore to check your gauge before you start your project. This will prevent your finished item being too large or too small. Ultimately, this will save you having to unravel your work and start again.

However, for some accessories, crochet gauge isn’t crucial. This is because it doesn’t matter too much if a flower or a bag isn’t quite the right size. Your pattern will tell you if gauge is not crucial in your project.

How do I make a Crochet Gauge or Crochet Tension square?

First, you will need to crochet a square of crochet in the main stitch pattern being used. A tension square should be slightly larger than the area you are going to measure. To measure stitches in a 10 x 10cm (4 x 4in) square, make a square of at least 15 x 15cm (6 x 6in).

To make a square, make a foundation chain of the length required and then work in the specified stitch or pattern until your crochet piece measures the same height as the width (so that you have a square).

Fasten off the yarn, then spray the square with water to dampen, and pin in out flat to dry (also known as blocking). Blocking the square will relax the stitches for more accurate measurements.

How do I measure my tension square?

On a flat surface, with the right side facing you, and using a hard ruler or metal tape measure, measure 10cm (4in) across a row of stitches. Mark each end with a pin.

Crochet gauge square with measuring tape horizontal to measure stitches in 10cm

Next, measure 10cm against the vertical rows, and mark each end with a pin.

Crochet gauge square with measuring tape vertical to measure rows in 10 cm

Now count the number of stitches (and half stitches) between the two sets of pins to obtain the number of stitches and rows within the 10cm square.

Crochet gauge square with pins at 10cm height and width, to measure stitches and rows with the 10cm square

The tension of some patterns is measured by the number of pattern repeats in a 10cm (4in) square. In this case, count the number of pattern repeats, not the number of stitches and rows.

What if my Gauge doesn’t match the Pattern Gauge?

If you have too many stitches and rows then your tension is too tight (and your stitches are too small). Make a new tension square using a hook one size larger than recommended in the pattern. So if the pattern recommends a 4mm hook, try 4.5mm instead.

If you have too few stitches and rows then your tension is too loose (and your stitches are too big). Make a new tension square using a hook one size smaller than recommended in the pattern. So if the pattern recommends a 3.75mm hook, try using 3.5mm.

You may need to work up a few tension squares with different hook sizes until you ultimately achieve the correct tension to match your pattern.