Hello, beautiful!
Here is our APRIL yarn giveaway! ❤️
I hope you enjoy this month’s hand-dyed yarn giveaway and if you want to go ahead and get entered check out the instructions below. ↓
TO ENTER, click here.
Also comment below and let me know if you swatch your project before you make it!
NOTES:
•You will also receive a $10 voucher to our shop just for entering!
•Last month’s giveaway winner is… Melannie Heald – Congrats!
•Worldwide entries welcome.
•Winner will be chosen at random early MAY and announced in the next giveaway.
•You must be still subscribed to our email list at the end of the month to be eligible to win.
I hope you enjoy this month’s giveaway!
Remember to soak up THIS day! Know you are held and loved and guided…
❤️❤️❤️
~Chandi
I love making swatches. I gotta whole ton of practice swatches, with different patterns n such.
I don’t swatch. I hope for the best. Lol
I have not done swatches , I am transitioning into higher end yarns as I build on my skills. Up to this point I wasn’t so concerned with a swatch, with yarns of higher quality and cost I believe I will start doing that.
Depends on the project. For garments definitely or if I think I might run out of yarn. For shawls, wraps, and scarves, I usually don’t swatch as I’m too eager to dive right in and get started, lol.
I swatch only when the pattern needs to be appropriately fitted. Rarely for shawls or wraps, but certainly for a sweater or project that I want to have fit just right!
I very rarely make a swatch, everything usually works out.
I only swatch for fitted garments.
I am now trying to swatch for fitted garments but I never liked to swatch. Today I know its important.
I always swatch, for great and professional results ♡
I do not always swatch. It depends on the project. Good luck everyone!
I don’t always swatch but with these beautiful artisanal yarns, I think I will going forward.
I tend to swatch every yarn I buy and that helps me decide the project for using it.
I am so excited! Thank you so very much! My first win ever!
I swatch if gauge is important for the project. Otherwise, I dive right in
I never swatch before I start. I just let fate decide what size whatever I’m making will be.
Congrats!
Para mi es muy importante hacer la muestra no sólo para hacer un cálculo, la muestra me ayuda a elegir el ganchillo o las agujas adecuadas para la labor, también al tocarla noto las puntadas, la textura del hilo y me encanta porque me puedo imaginar como va a quedar una vez terminado el proyecto. En dos palabras, TODO VENTAJAS!!!
I usually make swatches but I’m just too impatient to block them as well. So maybe they don’t really count… 🙂
I swatch for garments where fit matters, not so much for scarves/shawls etc.
Yes I do do that!!!
I mostly do swatches, seldomly wash them and almost always unravel them and use the yarn for the same project I was swatching for. 😀
That’s a good idea! I keep all my swatches. Has helped me see my progress with knitting. Plus I make swatches of all the different kinds of patterns I’ve learned. I also write the pattern on a notecard and attach it to the swatches. So hopefully maybe I can create my own knit item someday!
I do that before every project! 🙂
I’m so confused, why is my comment disappearing? I say Yes! To making swatches before projects!
Ya need to chill Emily. Haha
I’d like to say I always swatch, but that would be a lie.
I usually do not swatch, I go right in!
Hi Chandi, Every month I am amazed by the beauty of your skeins of wool. And this time is no exception: I already imagine many projects in these shades. To answer your question, I don’t really do a trial run before I start my projects, except for the gauge to know how many stitches to start with. But sometimes I undo everything after a third of the project because I’m not happy with the result. 🙂
Normally I don’t, but I did swatch the shawl pattern I used for my veil.
Very pretty colors again! 💙💜🤍 Thank you, Chandi and congrats to Melannie.
I definitely swatch for garments and fitted accessories. I might check my gauge as well if the yarn I’m using is very different from what is suggested in the pattern.
But for shawls, wraps, and scarf I usually don’t swatch. 😉
No, I rarely swatch and if I do, I just ignore it and dive right into the pattern. So far so good!
I think I am addicted to your site!!! It is always beautiful and not only inspires but makes me want to create!
I make swatches first because I have only been crocheting abt a year now. I like to feel confident before I mess my project up!
Lovely colors! I swatch for garments that need to fit and to make sure I have enough yarn to finish. I also swatch to try out a new technique or stitch pattern. But sometimes, I throw caution to the wind and just cast on! Yarn chicken can be addicting! 🤭
Usually no
I only swatch for sweaters…other projects I just jump in!
I learned to make a swatch for the first time last month. Before that, I winged it hoping that what I made would come out right. No more winged projects for me. Lol.
Sometimes I swatch if I’m on the fence about the project, but mostly I don’t-but I also stick to things that mostly work anyway like shawls and hats, lol.
Sweaters get swatched, shawls, not so much. Hats and mitts, depends.
I’ll admit I don’t always swatch. Sweater yes, scarf no.
The only time I swatch is of I’m doing a right during sweater and I have to be super accurate. Love the colors this month!
I always swatch now, mainly to ensure I don’t run out of yarn. I also like to know the garment I’ve put so much time into, is going to fit!
Wow that is GORGEOUS!! I just wanna cuddle it all!! I don’t usually swatch. When I decide to make a sweater or a very specific dimension garment I will, right now I am making a lot of scarfs, wraps, shawls so swatch is not as necessary.
Fantastic colors! I love seeing the photos of yarns and projects. I’ll swatch for garments, but not generally for shawls and scarves, etc. I love making blankets and giving them away as gifts.
I never made swatches before. But after watching your videos and learning so much from you I have started. Thank you for all your tutorials, I have really gained confidence to do more patterns I would not have chosen otherwise.
No, I don’t make swatches, I just dive in!
Kind of…. I swatch, but don’t block, I guess too excited to start a project! 🙂
Depends on the project whether I swatch or not. If it’s a sweater or hat I would swatch but if it’s a shawl or scarf or blanket, not so much.
I make a swatch to check gauge when I am very concerned about it, bit not every time.
I swatch but have yet been able to meet the gauge exactly so I recalculate the pattern where possible to meet my gauge. But have to cross my fingers each time because every time I measure the gauge is different and drives me crazy!
I swatch if I am using a new yarn base or if it is critical for fit. But, it isn’t my favorite thing to do..
Precuts with luxury yarns, I definitely swatch. However, with casual items such as hats, mittens, scarfs, I have to confess that I’m too impatient to swatch.
I swatch if size is important. Otherwise, usually not. But I have been known to rip out and start over if I don’t like the hand of the fabric.
Gorgeous yarn as always! I don’t usually swatch, but if I can I try things on as I go, so I don’t knit for too long only to find out it won’t fit!
Hi! I don’t usually swatch. I have for a few garments, especially baby clothes. I’m always warm, so I don’t knit sweaters for myself. And afghans, I just make until I run out of yarn. So, my answer is “Not usually”. Thanks for this opportunity – your yarn is lovely!
I always say that I’m going to swatch, and then somewhere along the way I decide that I’m just going to hope for the best! So far it has worked out okay, but I know that one of these days it’ll come back to bite me!
No, I don’t make swatches. Your yarn giveaway for this month is gorgeous!!! Congratulations to Melannie for March’s yarn winner!
Nope not very often. I’m usually spot on for gauge for some inexplicable reason.
I actually usually don’t swatch, but I’ll do a practice run with a cheaper yarn to make sure I’ve got the stitch down.
Such beautiful colors! As always! Drooling……
I rarely made a swatch in my early knitting days. If I’m making a sweater, or a project that I need to practice a new stitch pattern, I do now (learned THAT lesson). Also, I am using more woolly wools lately, and I need to see what happens after the thing gets a bath. I understand how important a swatch is, but…..for shawls or non-fitting pieces, I don’t. Since I have made so many shawls, cowls, etc, I have a pretty good idea what needle/yarn I want (or need) for a specific pattern. I probably need to swatch a wee bit more than I do though….
I make swatches if I need to use a different size yarn or product than the pattern is.
I do swatch! I am a tight knitter so I usually have to adjust according to that. Working on my tension!
Because I use patterns only as suggestions, and use different yarns then called for in a pattern, I ALWAYS swatch!
I live on the edge, so I don’t swatch before starting a project! 😱😬🤣
😂😂
Yes, I swatch. I’ve learned the hard way!🧐
When fit is important, I’ll swatch. I’ll also swatch if I’m substituting yarn and want to get a feel of the fabric it makes. But I have to be honest and say I usually don’t swatch for socks, mitts, hats or shawls. For those, I usually jump right in with my cast on.
These are all my favorite colors! I don’t swatch for blankets, scarves and such. I do for sweaters. I will swatch if I’m doing a new stitch
I almost never swatch, because I usualy make shawls or wraps. I really want to make sweaters and cardigans, but I find it hard to choose the right yarn. When I find the right yarn to make a cardigan or sweater I will make a swatch, I promise 😁
These colors are right in my wheelhouse! And I do swatch. Unless I don’t. It usually depends on the project The sweater I’m working on, yep – swatched that. Last shawl I did, swatched that too. The cowl I’m also currently working on, didn’t bother swatching that.
I don’t make a swatch for anything…I probably should but I get too excited to actually make the piece haha!
It depends on the project. I rarely search for shawls, but I do for sweaters and socks. My knitting is loose so I usually make gauge if I go down a needle size.
Most of the time I do not swatch.
I do not like to swatch. BUT, I learned the hard way that it is best to do so. Now, I do make swatches for everything except shawls.
I always swatch before making a wearable because I found out that I usually have to adjust my hook size to get the proper gauge. I don’t want to waste all my time and effort if it’s not going to fit right once I’m done.
Swatches!? What? I’m supposed to do swatches? LOL I only make a swatch when totally necessary. Or just to see a yarn worked up. Love the colors for this giveaway!!! I want!
If it’s a new yarn and/or new pattern, I swatch. Otherwise I have enough experience to know what my gauge will be with yarns, needles, and patterns I’ve knit before.
I never swatch. Lol
If I don’t swatch, I end up usually having to start over because I’m such a tight knitter and crocheter, and I usually change up the yarn. You’re patterns are the only ones my swatches usually match the gauge first shot! I should probably block my swatches now you’ve gotten me off acrylic…
I’m usually making scarves, shawls and wraps so I don’t usually swatch. I do watch my gauge as I go though, to make sure I’ll have enough yarn to finish the project.
Thanks for hosting another giveaway! I used to not swatch but with garment making I always swatch now!
What a perfect birthday present. April is my birth month and crocheting is what I do with most of my time. I am confined to a wheel chair/walker so I spend a lot of time sitting. The colors are lovely. I make shawls, lap robes, and baby blankets, which I give away. Thank you in advance.
Beautiful colors and yarn so delightful to work with every time. I know I should swatch, but I don’t! I just like to jump right into the project!
I always swatch for garments. Less so for blankets and shawls 😉
My Birthday is in April. Feel free to send me the yarn as a present!!
I match swatches about half the time. Mostly when using a new yarn type and the project size matters. If I’m making a blanket or scarf where the sizing isn’t crucial, I usually skip the swatch making process.
I love the colors shown here!
Beautiful! Thanks for the opportunity!
Happy Easter!
If it’s a fitted item I will swatch – otherwise I do not.
I’m bad, I don’t swatch. But things always turn out to fit me, so I think I’m doing OK.
I don’t do swatches but I should.
I swatch for jumpers and if I’ve not used the yarn before or the pattern is very detailed
I swatch when ever I make a garment . For everything else very rare that I do.
I only swatch for garments never for shawls.
I don’t swatch. I’m too impatient to get started. I do a couple of rows to see if I’m matching the gauge, then frog it.
Sure, I swatch every project… if you define “swatch” as grab the needles & go, frog later as needed. 😀
For the wraps, blankets and hats, I have not formally swatched. I do work the pattern to see if the yarn and needle are right for the pattern. I look for stitch definition and if the yarn color(s) enhance or overshadow the project. For garments, I swatch according to directions.
I try to swatch, but sometimes find it tedious since most of what I make doesn’t always require a gage swatch. I see where it would be important if it was.
It depends on what I’m making on if I make a swatch or not. If the size isn’t as important, I skip it. Also, I love your yarns!
Hello … Hardly ever swatch as I’m usually spot on with gauge … This will occasionally get me in trouble which is why I’ll swatch if it’s something that actually needs to fit ha ha. Thanks for your beautiful yarn … It’s saved me during COVID!
God Bless
Amy
I think, I only did one swatch in my knitting life. It was a new material and I wanted to know how it behaved after washing.
I swatch for garments and/or for yarns that I haven’t used before so I don’t have an idea of what kind of gauge I might get.
Depending on the project I will do a swatch! Waiting on my first order to arrive! Can’t wait.
What’s a swatch? 🙂 hahaha
I don’t, but I should.
I don’t like making swatches.
Yummy! This month’s give away colors are deeeelish!! Thank for the opportunity and for the beautiful color ways you come up with!!
I frequently swatch, but my swatches frequently lie. I’ve become resigned to always having to cast on every project three times, lol.
Wow! These colors are absolutely beautiful! I usually do a swatch but not always.
I always swatch when I’m working with a yarn or stitch I’ve never used before, or making a fitted garment. I usually swatch If I’m making a new pattern and i need to be sure I’ll have enough yarn. I rarely swatch for shawls, wraps or the average blanket.
Hi Chandi,
Beautiful yarn as always! I don’t make a swatch for baby clothes unless I use yarn that is different than what the pattern calls. I always swatch when it is for an adult sweater. I don’t swatch for shawls or afghans.
Swatches? Oh, like the 80s watches? Loved those things! 😁 I’m more of an impulsive soul who does little research and even less prep so, can’t say I do a lot of swatches.
I’ll swatch if it’s a fitted item, like a sweater, or if I think I’ll be cutting it close in terms of the amount of yarn I have. In other cases I don’t bother.
I swatch sometimes, but I almost always use the “wrong” yarn, so my swatches are irrelevant.
Such lovely yarns…. I wish…
Yes, I swatch for garments. And where gauge is important. And if I am using a different weight yarn than what the pattern calls for….sometimes to see how much yarn to buy.
It depends. If I’m making a scarf, blanket, or shawl, I don’t usually swatch. A sweater or hat? Most definitely! AND block it as well.
I usually do not make a swatch!
It depends on the project and the complexity of the stitches and whether I’ve swapped out a different yarn than the one used in pattern. When using a different yarn, even if it is a similar weight to the one in the pattern, I find that when swatched, it works up with enough difference that I need to modify. This is especially true with garments, as even a 1/4” difference in a 4×4” swatch will end up being another size garment (that’s 2 1/2” for a 40” circumference or length). For scarves or shawls, I often don’t care. I also rarely block, mostly for lace or other stretchy stitches where the piece looks really distorted.
I try to especially for garments. 🙂
I don’t always make a swatch
That soft yummy lavender color one up from the bottom on the right is stunning! I need to learn to do fiber arts faster. I just keep starting and then starting over. I don’t do official swatch square I just stick a lot to get comfortable with the process and get my hand to relax and do more consistent stitches. At some point I will measure and see if adjustments need to be made. Its all pretty new to me.
I only swatch when gauge is crucial, but then I undo that little beauty and use the tarn for my project. Of course, I have been known to dive in head first….
*yarn*
I swatch if I’m making a garment, which doesn’t happen often!
I only swatch if I’m making a sweater. Otherwise, blocking does wonders.
Hi! I do swatch to check gauge but I don’t find that it helps much. Recently I bought some Icelandic wool and it was very scratchy to work with. I was making a cardigan and almost quit because I was afraid of having it next to my skin. I checked the website and found some comments about washing it and then treating with hair conditioner to make it soft. I was a bit skeptical but tried it with a swatch and it worked beautifully so that’s another great use for swatches. I do save my swatches until the project is complete just in case I run out of yarn – even a little bit could be the difference. 🙂
Almost always do a swatch for a project, exceptions are repeat patterns or when it really doesn’t matter, as in some shawls, cowls, hats, and scarves. The yarn selection above is fantastic! Your yarn has such rich color tones!
I do blocking, not realm mich of swatch.
I’m 17 And you really inspire me Chandi, I don’t know how to officially declare you as my all time favorite crocheter/knitter. I learnt crocheting at a young age and want to be someone like. Thank you for all this hard work.
(your yarns are so rare to find anywhere)
Bless you guys all
I only swatch for sweaters since fit is important, but never for accessories. I have occasionally had to rip out and start over with a hat due to gauge problems, but I’d rather use the start of the hat as the swatch than do a separate swatch.
I’m currently regretting not searching for this sweater… I’m learning that I apparently crochet very tightly!
Swatching. Not searching! Lol
Hello! I probably should do swatches, but I do not. I just start them and hope for the best! I finished my first knit sweater in February and it turned out great.
Depending on the project I will make a swatch first. Unfortunately learned the hard way that making a swatch first can really help.
I don’t always swatch. I know I should and once in a while, it backfires on me but usually not, thankfully.
I’m new to knitting so Im being cautious to not waste my precious yarn or time on something that doesn’t fit me in the end.
Besides, knitting up a swatch gives me the thrill of knitting it even if I’m not really to make something from it 🌈🤣
I usually do, but not with patterns I have in my little finger 😄 Beautiful colors, as always.. Lots of love!
I generally make items that don’t require an exact gauge. I pretty much know what gauge I will get with a specific yarn and needle type. So, I only make swatches when it’s a new yarn or new needle size that I’ve not used before. Also, i will swatch if I am doing a complicated design in order to make certain my colors will work together. If I ever make something like a sweater, I will definitely swatch!
It depends on what kind of project I’m making. If it needs to make gauge to fit or is a sample and has to match what the designer wanted, then I swatch. If it’s a shawl or something else where it only matters a little, then I don’t. If it’s a small project, like socks, I just start the project and check gauge when I’ve knit far enough. It’s faster to just go ahead and start it than to swatch and then make it!
I only swatch when gauge is critical.
I usually swatch unless it is a blanket I am making.
Hey Chandi & Tim!
Thank you for another lovely giveaway! You guys are so generous!
I do swatch, but only for garments that have to fit. I don’t mind swatching, but for shawls and scarves I just go with the flow!
I love seeing your yarn in swatches, I’m such a visual person.
Just finished my first knit sweater, thanks to your tutorial that I purchased.
Would like to learn how to knit more, i crochet mostly.
This is my new skill I have challenged myself with.
So, the knit sweater was perfect for me.
I would like to know if you have thought about adding small knit baby item ideas for a beginner like myself…?
Cheers,
That is something we can work on!
LOVE LOVE LOVE YOUR YARNS and your lively friendly giving soul. Thank you for having these giveaways Chandi! I’ve followed you since the beginning and I loved sharing with you about the soap making days as well. you inspire me daily!
I don’t swatch. I am so eager to finish the project that I just dive into it.
I rarely swatch, mostly because I planned on making the project bigger than I’m supposed to anyway, i LOVE oversized wraps & shawls…..
But…… I do sometimes make a “sample” to see if i really like a pattern.
I don’t swatch generally, but I’m not against it, just a bit of a gambler.
Oh my goodness! This package literally covers all my summer knitting plans!
Swatches aren’t my favourite thing to do, but I learned my lesson a long time ago. Made my Mom a sweater without swatching, but used her exact pattern size. I was so proud to give it to her…..until she tried to put it on. It was at lease 2 sizes too small :o( 3 months work got ripped apart and re-done, which took 4 months
I’ve only ever made a swatch for my first sweater! Other than that, I just start knitting my project!
I always swatch sweaters, jackets and socks but I don’t shawls and scarves.
If I have a larger project, I will make a swatch. I haven’t made a sweater yet, but when I do, I will definitely be making a swatch!
I’ve never swatched before trying to do lace patterns. You really need to swatch these stitches to get an idea of the optimal tension you need to apply to your yarn !
I am new to knitting, been doing it for a little over two years now so I don’t swatch. I just start knitting and go with the flow, haha!!
I rarely swatch. Only for fitted garments. Scarves, shawls, afghans…I just dive right in!
Swatches….. sometimes yes 😊
. This Yarn Giveaway is gorgeous…. I think you know it 😉
Wow, just looking at those colours makes me happy inside…so beautiful! I swatch most of the time, especially if I’m trying something new, and always when making fitted items. I learned the hard way in the past when I didnt swatch making garments…..hours of work lost as a result. Now I swatch, swatch, swatch!!!
If I’m making a garment I will do a gauge swatch but normally for blankets I’ll just match the hook/ needles with the yarn weight. 🙂
No, I do not. Congratulations too Melannie.
And thanks you, Ghandi for your beautiful give away, I love the colors <3
Yes, learned that lesson the hard way. I usually do make a swatch before starting a project, especially if it’s a yarn I’ve never used. I usually make 2 or 3 swatches using different sized needles or hooks to see which gets me closest to the pattern gauge and fits the way I knit or crochet. I find it especially helpful when using a new variegated yarn so I can get an idea of what the color pattern looks like when it’s made up. Love your yarns and colors!
No…I’ve never swatched a project!
I swatch only for items where fit is critical such as socks or clothing.
I knit a swatch if I’m making a sweater or fitted garment. If I’m working on a shawl and following the pattern exactly with the specified yarn then I typically don’t make a swatch.
Making a swatch is always a good idea but not one that I adhere to 100% of the time. Another item for me to improve on. 🙂
I do not swatch before a project, I just start and hope for the best lol
I don’t swatch even sometines I should do it. I’m too eager to start a new project.
I like all your positive messages, they help a lot.
Love this giveaway! Please and Thank You!
I’m also an introvert and enjoy making swatches of knitting and crocheting. This is my first time seeing one of your videos, don’t know where I’ve been but I’ll be back.
I sometimes do. Not as often as I should though. Especially when I’m making a baby sweater.
Depends on my mood and what I’m making as well as the yarn I am using. Anything that needs to fit well with home spun yarn gets a swatch. I also usually swatch when I use my own designs
Hi, I do always swatch, now anyway! There are some things I don’t swatch for but most of them I definitely do. Happy April!!
I only swatch if it is a garment like a top but never for scarf or hat types of projects.
I really worry about swatching using up too much yarn. I really do hate the game of yarn chicken: psst: I lose most of the time.
I have projects where a swatch would have told me to use a larger needle/hook. So that ‘project’ becomes something else.
As others have said, it is hard not to dive right in!
Thank you for the opportunity for the give away.
Be safe!
Oh my a feast for the eyes!!! Delicious colourways!
If it’s something that’s required to fit… eg.garment/socks…. then yes, always a swatch.
If it’s a shawl/scarf… It’s wing it time, baby!!! 😉
Chandi, you’re always offering us the chance at a wonderful surprise, so I hope you receive little surprises scattered throughout the year too. xo
Hi there! I generally do swatch my Projects, although sometimes I am so eager to start that I skip it and then I regret it! Hahaha
Love your giveaways!
I don’t swatch, I know I should though.
Being a self taught knitter, I had no idea what a swatch was until about a year ago. Although not my favorite thing to do, it is a must for me, as I tend to knit a bit tight and I don’t knit like a true continental knitter. It seems like I always need to move up a needle size. Lesson learned the hard way.
I swatch when the pattern indicates to ensure I have the right fit. The yarn and needle sizes will definitely impact the finished project.
I swatch when I feel bad about my stash sitting idle. But when I have a pattern or a yarn that’s super exciting, dive! And curse my haste later.
I don’t swatch. I haven’t really made anything to make a swatch for. I mostly have previously made blankets, shawls and a few hats and scarves.
I just recently purchased some sock needles and I am hoping to make socks for everyone for Christmas. I don’t plan to swatch I’m just gonna hope for the best and guess at sizes.
Congratulations to Melannie! I learned the hard way to make swatches, but I believe that they are only necessary for garments that you need to be a certain size. I don’t swatch if I am making a scarf or shawl and only sometimes if it is an afghan/blanket. Love the colour selection… blues and surrounding family are my favourites.
Nope, no swatching! But I mostly make non-swatchable items!
Wow, I’m always amazed at how beautiful your yarn is. I only recently discovered your YouTube channel and it brought me to your website, where I just started buying yarn. I don’t know how I could ever go back, so wonderful to work with! I have started three different projects because I just couldn’t help myself… 😅
Not to mention the other projects I was already working on. 🙃
For all of them I sort of do swatches. I knit the pattern in small blocks, but unravel and do it again several times until I decide which I like best. I’m still sort of a beginner so I’m not sure if this is bad or not, I just want to make sure I use all the beautiful yarn in my chosen project!
I very rarely make a swatch, everything usually works out.
I have tried making swatches, but get frustrated in trying to match the pattern designers gauge. Most of my projects have been blankets, scarves and such, which don’t require an accurate gauge, but I am trying to work towards getting it right so I can make my first sweater. For now, I am currently just knitting, but will pick up crochet again in the future too. I may have better success with crochet… maybe… lol!
I rarely swatch, but learning it is a very good idea! I like to knit things that don’t have to fit, but I don’t like to run out of yarn either!
If I’m test knitting for someone I will swatch to make sure the FO will fit correctly. For shawls, cowls, wraps or scarfs I’ve never made a swatch. That explains a lot too! 😉
I always do a swatch, especially if it’s my first time using a stitch I’ve never used before. I see it as a little practice before diving into the actual project!
Hi Chandi! These colors are my wheelhouse! Cannot wait to knit up Love and Lace which is what I just cast on!!
Awesome!
Always!!
I don’t always do a swatch, but when I’m trying to determine what I want my project to look like I will.
I always swatch for garments, but rarely for any other projects.
I haven’t done swatches yet but I’ve only been knitting for about a year and have only done shawls where it didn’t really matter. I probably should though if for no other reason than to practice fixing dropped stitches. I can fix issues in crochet but a knitting problem usually means frogging for me!
Delicious colours again Chandi!
It took me a long time to embrace swatching I do swatch quite faithfully now. I tend to knit/crochet a bit loosely and often need to go down a size in needles or hooks.
I have not swatched, but I also haven’t tried my hand at more than blankets yet
I swatch most projects. I tend to knit and crochet a bit tight so I need to check gauge, texture, drape, etc.
Stunning yarn in a super colours. I can only dream of projects in these yarns
Those are lovely colors! I usually swatch depending on the project and stitch
As a self-taught knitter, I am now finding.it necessary to correct my knitting style. Thanks to you for the video on continental knitting. It has proven to be a life saver for my hands. I am using swatches to help with tension and gauge as I relearn the process. Swatches are more helpful for me on fitted projects like socks and sweaters as well as crocheted items. I tend to crochet tightly and a swatch helps keep me on course!
Sometimes I do swatches. If its multicolored yarn i always fo so i can see how it looks!
Swatching depends on the project — if I’m following a new pattern, yes. If I’m not working from a pattern, or if it’s something I’ve done before, I usually just swatch enough to determine the density of the fabric and adjust as needed.
When I first started crocheting, I didn’t want to waste time with it, but I’ve learned over the years that it’s way less stressful to swatch than to frog!
I don’t swatch when: knitting a scarf/shawl, using the exact yarn that the pattern suggests, or when knitting something oversized. Sometimes I just do a partial swatch and I definitely have never gone so far as to block a swatch. I do think it’s a good idea to swatch but I’m usually too eager to start the pattern!
Sometimes i swatch for hats and if i haven’t used the yarn before
I swatch for sweaters and other garments.
Expression fiber arts has always inspired me to crochet and try out different patters. Chandi is my favorite crocheter and my favorite line of her’s is “Try any yarn, there is no yarn police”. The first time I heard this it felt so liberating. I have tried many of her crochet patterns. And now, I cant wait to try this yarn. Thank You.:)
I swatch occasionally. If it’s a new stitch or a complicated pattern I’ll make a sample so I know what I’m doing. Otherwise I just dive right in!
Haven’t done a swatch before a project yet! Still learning and watching your great, encouraging videos. I’m working up the confidence to knit the Wandering scarf using your gorgeous Aventurine, maybe this is a good pattern to practice this with! Exciting! Thank you for being such a source of light and inspiration!
I never swatch, reckless-abandon is my middle name! I have been knitting and crocheting since I was 4-5 so I put it down to still having a child’s approach to projects; all joy and optimism with a “naughty basket” for uncooperative WIPs
No, i just dive right in! I’m still a newbie and am learning a ton from this site (thanks Chandi) ☺️ just loving all the fun of experimenting and even making mistakes – I’ll just pull out my stitches and start over again.
I never used to swatch, but now that I have gotten into making sweaters and things that need to fit I have started to. Want to make sure what I making will fit!!
I haven’t been swatching and have ended up with too many things ill fitting so I am going to start swatching so get a more polished finished product – tired of duds.
I know I should swatch, but I usually just start and then frog if it works up wrong!
I do not knit swatches, even though I know it’s important.
I usually dive right into the pattern. If I have some tricky ones I do swatch. Chandi I love your patterns and yarns. You are an inspiration.
A huge thank you from Berlin
Sorry, I don’t know what you
mean by swatch. I use yarns
for weaving on my loom.
Carla from Utah
It depends… if it’s something I need to make sure fits then yes.. Otherwise I wing it! SometimesI’ll just start the pattern and ‘eyeball’ it!
I know I should swatch, but I get too excited about diving into a new project. I force myself to be patient and swatch for fitted garments because I’m a tight knitter and nothing would fit me if I didn’t, but that’s usually about it.
First, let me say that I am always impressed by your presentation. In this particular case, I like the pyramid aspect. It has given me quite a few ideas that I would never have thought of pairing yarns.
Yes, I now always swatch when I am knitting. However, I realized the importance of ensuring that I swatch according to the stitch required because my tension is not always consistent with different stitches. Thus, the finished product will not be true to size.