How do I use stitch gauge to calculate cast-on stitches?

Divide your stitch gauge by 10 to get stitches per cm. Multiply by your desired width in cm. Round to the nearest whole number, then adjust for any pattern repeat requirements. For example, at 22 stitches per 10cm and a 50cm width: (22/10) x 50 = 110 stitches.

Should I include selvedge stitches in my calculation?

This depends on whether the selvedge stitches are included in the pattern width measurement. If the pattern measures the finished width including selvedges, include them. If you are designing your own piece and measuring between seam lines, the selvedge stitches are extra and will be taken up in the seam.

What if I need the stitch count to be a specific multiple?

After calculating the basic stitch count, adjust up or down to the nearest multiple of your pattern repeat. For example, if your pattern repeat is 8 stitches and you calculated 110 stitches, you would adjust to 112 (14 x 8) or 104 (13 x 8), then add any edge stitches required.

KnitCalcs

Stitch Gauge Calculator — Stitches for a Target Width

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

Stitch Gauge (per 10cm)

Stitches per 10cm from your swatch

Target Width

Desired finished width

How We Calculate This

This calculator converts a desired width into the number of stitches to cast on, using your measured stitch gauge.

The formula

Stitches per cm = Stitch gauge / 10

Total stitches = Target width (cm) x Stitches per cm (rounded to nearest whole number)

Frequently Asked Questions

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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.