A knitting pattern contains all the information you need to make a certain design. In addition to
the instructions, a pattern should list what sizes the design can be knit for, the tools and materials
required, and any particular stitch patterns used. Some patterns also contain diagrams of the
finished pieces, called schematics,which show the shape of the pieces and their measurements.
READING THE PATTERN FIRST
There are so many knitting patterns and books to choose from these days that you may be overwhelmed. When you
find something that you would like to knit, be sure to read over the pattern first. Check to see that the instructions are
clear and that they make sense to you. Make sure that the pattern is within your skill level. Many patterns are rated,
ranging from very easy to expert. If the pattern isn’t rated, reading it over will let you know if it’s something you can
handle. Trying to knit something that is too difficult may turn you off to knitting forever, and you certainly don’t want
that. Also, you need to make certain that the instructions are written for a size that you would like to knit.What Size to Knit?
Actual Body Measurement Finished Measurements
Chest Tight Fit Tailored Fit Normal Fit Loose Fit Oversized Fit
31"–32" 30" 32" 34" 36" 37"–38"
33"–34" 32" 34" 36" 38" 39"–40"
35"–36" 34" 36" 38" 40" 41"–42"
37"–38" 36" 38" 40" 42" 43"–44"
39"–40" 38" 40" 42" 44" 45"–46"READING INSTRUCTIONS FOR SIZE
Most knitting patterns are written for more than one size. The smallest size is usually listed first, with the remaining
sizes listed in parentheses—for example, S (M, L). Throughout the pattern, the instructions contain information pertain-
ing to the various sizes, such as stitch counts and numbers of decreases or increases, using a parallel format. For exam-
ple, a pattern written for S (M, L) may instruct you to cast on 50 (60, 70) stitches. That means if you’re knitting the
medium size, you need to cast on 60 stitches. Some knitters avoid confusion by highlighting or underlining the part of
the instructions that pertain to the size they are knitting.CHOOSING A SIZE
Knitting patterns list the measurements relating to the sizes included in the instructions. These measurements usually
indicate the finished sizes of the knitted garment. Different designers use unique templates based on their idea of what
fits a certain age or size range. So the best way to figure out what size to knit for yourself or for someone else is, if pos-
sible, to take body measurements. Then you can decide whether you want the garment to have a loose, comfortable fit,
or a more snug, tailored fit. You then check your measurements against the pattern’s finished measurements and make
your choice.