Project Calculator

Calculate how much yarn you need for complete projects like sweaters, scarves, shawls, socks, and blankets. Select project type and size for an estimate.

Select project type first to see available sizes.
How many stitches do you get per 10 cm width?
How many meters are in one ball of your yarn?

Project Journal

Keep track of your knitting progress. Note which techniques you used, problems you solved, or just daily thoughts about the project.

Learn More About Knitting

What yarn types exist and what properties do they have?

Different yarn types have different properties that make them suitable for various projects:

  • Wool: Warm, elastic, naturally water-repellent. Perfect for sweaters and hats
  • Cotton: Breathable, machine washable, good for summer. Ideal for baby clothes and kitchen textiles
  • Alpaca: Soft, warm, hypoallergenic. Luxury alternative to wool
  • Acrylic: Affordable, easy to wash, allergy-friendly. Good choice for beginners
How do I substitute yarn in a knitting pattern?

When substituting yarn in a pattern, follow these important steps:

Always check the yardage per 50g or 100g on the yarn label. Even if the gauge matches, the yarn amount can vary if the fiber content is different (e.g. cotton vs. wool).

Always knit a gauge swatch first - especially when substituting yarn! Use the yarn calculator above to calculate the correct amount.

What is gauge and how do I measure it?

Gauge is the number of stitches and needles over 10x10 cm. This is critical for getting the right size:

  • Lace yarn: 28-32 stitches on 2-3mm needles
  • Fingering yarn: 24-28 stitches on 3-4mm needles
  • DK yarn: 18-22 stitches on 4-5mm needles
  • Aran yarn: 14-18 stitches on 5-6mm needles

Always knit a gauge swatch at least 12x12 cm and measure after blocking.

What common knitting mistakes should I avoid?

Avoid these typical beginner mistakes that can ruin your project:

  • Too tight stitches: Use larger needles or knit looser
  • Forgetting to count stitches: Use stitch markers and count regularly
  • Skipping the gauge swatch: Always important for correct sizing
  • Wrong yarn amount: Use the yarn calculator for accurate calculation
  • Not reading the entire pattern first: Read through before starting
How do I store yarn properly?

Proper storage extends your yarn's lifespan and quality:

  • Dry and dark place: Avoid direct sunlight which can fade colors
  • Lavender or cedar balls: Natural protection against moths
  • Not in plastic bags: Yarn needs to breathe, use fabric bags
  • Keep yarn labels: Important for washing instructions and color numbers
  • Monitor temperature: Avoid heat sources that can damage fibers
What basic knitting techniques do I need to know?

These techniques are the foundation for all knitting:

  • Knit and purl stitches: The basis for all patterns
  • Increases and decreases: To shape garments like sweaters and hats
  • Cast on and bind off: How to start and finish your work
  • Joining: Techniques for sewing pieces together
  • Blocking: Important for getting the right shape and size
  • Fixing mistakes: How to pick up dropped stitches

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the yarn calculator and substitution formula work?

The yarn calculator helps you find the right amount of yarn when substituting from the pattern's original yarn to a different yarn.

How the calculation works:

  1. First, total yardage in the pattern is calculated: (Grams in pattern ÷ Weight per skein) × Meters per skein
  2. Then we find how many grams of the new yarn are needed to achieve the same total length
  3. Formula: New amount (g) = (Total meters ÷ New yarn meters) × New yarn weight

Enter the yardage (meters per 50g/100g) for both the original yarn and the new yarn. The calculator automatically calculates how much you need.

How do I calculate how many stitches I need?

To calculate the number of stitches based on desired width, use your gauge and this formula:

Number of stitches = (Desired width in cm × Gauge per 10cm) ÷ 10

Example: If you want a width of 50 cm and have a gauge of 22 stitches per 10 cm:

(50 × 22) ÷ 10 = 110 stitches

Use the "Gauge & Stitch Calculator" tool for automatic calculation.

Can I use the row counter offline?

Yes! Knitting Helper works as a PWA (Progressive Web App) and can be used offline after the first visit. All data is stored locally on your device, so you can knit anywhere without internet.

How do I create a color fade?

Use the Color Fade tool to plan your gradient:

  1. Select number of colors (2-10 colors)
  2. Pick each color with the color picker
  3. Set weights for each color (higher weight = more rounds)
  4. Get a detailed plan for how many rounds to knit with each color

You also get a visual preview of your color fade.

How do I calculate how much leftover yarn I have?

Use the Leftover Yarn Calculator to find out how many meters you have left:

  1. Weigh your leftover yarn on a kitchen scale
  2. Select yarn type or enter the yardage
  3. The calculator automatically calculates how many meters you have

This is useful when planning small projects like headbands, mittens or socks.

Are the knitting tools free to use?

Yes, all tools in Knitting Helper are completely free to use. No registration, download or payment required. You can also install the site as an app on your phone for easier access.

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