Collar Calculator — Pick-Up Stitches & Collar Shaping

Pick up approximately 1 stitch per stitch along the bind-off edge and 3 stitches for every 4 rows along shaped edges. A snug neckband typically has about 90% of the calculated full-gauge stitches. Round the total to the ribbing multiple so it joins cleanly in the round: a multiple of 2 for k1p1 (crew, mock) and a multiple of 4 for k2p2 (turtleneck). This calculator does that rounding for you.

Use needles 1-2 sizes smaller than the body for the neckband. Pick up slightly fewer stitches than the full gauge suggests. Ribbing (k1p1 or k2p2) provides natural elasticity that holds the shape.

The relaxed band must stretch over the head (head circumference is roughly 56cm versus a 38-45cm neck), so a turtleneck is worked at the full neck gauge rather than snugged in. Bind off very loosely - or on a needle one or two sizes larger - so the cast-off edge still slips over the head. Stretchy ribbed cast-offs such as Jeny’s surprisingly stretchy bind-off work well here.

A standard crew neck collar is 2-3cm (about 6-8 rounds of ribbing). A turtleneck is 15-25cm. A mock turtleneck is 5-8cm. A folded polo collar is typically 6-8cm (folds in half).

Short circular needles (40cm) or double-pointed needles work best for round necklines. For a cardigan collar worked flat, straight needles are fine. A magic loop technique with a long circular is also an option.

Insert the needle under both loops of each stitch along the edge. Space pick-ups evenly and avoid leaving holes. If you notice holes, pick up one extra stitch on either side and decrease them on the first row.