Which gauge system is most common?

In the UK and Europe, gauge is measured per 10cm. In the US, gauge is traditionally measured per 4 inches. Japanese patterns often use 10cm. Many modern international patterns list both. Per 10cm is becoming the global standard.

Why does 4 inches not equal 10cm exactly?

4 inches equals 10.16cm. This 1.6mm difference means a gauge of 20 stitches per 10cm is actually 20.3 stitches per 4 inches. For small projects this difference is negligible, but for large garments it can accumulate to a noticeable size difference.

How do Japanese knitting patterns specify gauge?

Japanese patterns typically list gauge per 10cm, the same as European patterns. However, Japanese patterns also include very detailed stitch diagrams with exact stitch counts, so gauge accuracy is especially important when following Japanese patterns.

KnitCalcs

International Gauge Calculator — Metric & Imperial Conversion

Convert gauge measurements between all common metric and imperial systems used worldwide.

Gauge Value

Measured Over

How We Calculate This

This calculator converts between all common gauge measurement systems by first normalising to stitches per cm, then multiplying by the target measurement width.

Conversion factors

1 inch = 2.54cm
4 inches = 10.16cm
10cm = 3.937 inches

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Gauge Swatch Calculator

Calculate stitches and rows per cm from your swatch measurements.

Gauge Conversion Calculator

Convert gauge between 10cm and 4-inch standards.

Row Gauge Calculator

Calculate how many rows you need for a given length based on your row gauge.

Stitch Gauge Calculator

Calculate how many stitches you need for a given width based on your stitch gauge.

Needle Size Calculator

Convert between metric, US, and old UK needle sizing systems.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard yarn weights and gauge. Results may vary with individual tension, yarn brand, and needle size.