Lace Pattern Calculator — YOs, Decreases & Stitch Counts

A balanced lace pattern has an equal number of yarn overs (increases) and decreases in each row or round. This keeps the stitch count constant. If they are unequal, the stitch count changes each repeat, which may be intentional for shaped lace.

If your yarn overs and decreases are not equal, or if you are accidentally dropping or adding stitches around the yarn overs, your count will drift. Count your stitches at the end of each pattern repeat row to catch errors early.

Lace generally uses slightly less yarn per unit area because yarn overs create open space. However, lace is usually blocked aggressively to open up the pattern, so the finished piece is larger, which can offset the yarn savings. Overall, lace uses roughly the same amount of yarn as stockinette for the same finished dimensions.