Knits That Fit

Our September meeting started off by welcoming local knitwear designer, author, and master knitter Heather Lodinsky. Heather  taught us how to create knits that will will actually fit us as individuals so that we wear what we spend so much time lovingly creating. “One-size-fits-all should only be for afghans and tote bags,” said Heather

Heather offered these tips for making Knits That Fit:

 1. Size is a standard we use; ” know how you like your clothes to fit. Fit is subjective. We all feel different in our own fit.”

2.  Get your favorite fitting top or sweater and measure it: sleeves, bust, length. Once you have these numbers you will know how to fit patterns for your size.

3.  Gauge is critical for knits that fit. Don’t think of Gauge and  swatching as a task or as a waste of time. Heather says think of gauge as” playing with your yarn and know that it will tell you what your yarn will do. Without gauge there’s no fit. “

4 . Generally stitch gauge means more than row gauge. Stitch gauge needs to be perfect. Even being a quarter of an inch off from your stitch gauge can make a sweater too big or too small. Always check your gauge and never think it will simply work out in the end.”Without gauge there’s no fit.”

5.   Ease is the difference between your bust size and the garment’s bust size. Negative ease means the garment will be smaller than the actual bust size. No ease means you will have a close-fitting garment. Positive ease means a garment several inches bigger than your bust size, generally 4 inches  is the standard for positive ease.

What did you learn at the September meeting? How has Heather’s discussion changed your thoughts on knitting and pattern design? Share in our Comments Section!