Multiples - stitchy math

February 13, 2023

Understanding Pattern Multiples
Stitch math - it's easier than you think...

If you've been knitting or crocheting for a while, you may have run across a pattern that says "multiple of (number) plus (number). Today, we want to tell you what that means!

Multiple of...
Many patterns repeat over and over again across a row. For example, 2x2 ribbing (knit) repeats the sequence (k 2, p 2) over and over. Multiple of X tells you how many stitches are in each repeat. 2x2 ribbing has a multiple of 4.

Need another example? Crocheted seed stitch repeats (sc, dc) over and over. This is a multiple of 2.

Plus...
So we get what multiples are, but what's the PLUS?

In order to make the pattern line up evenly so that it looks symmetrical when it's done, it's often necessary to add extra stitches. In our 2x2 ribbing example, if we want the ribbing to start and end with 2 knits, then we have to add an extra 2 stitches when casting on. This means that 2x2 ribbing has a Multiple of 4, plus 2.

What does all that mean for you?
If you're working a pattern that tells you the multiple, you can make it bigger and smaller easily by adding or subtracting multiples. For example, a crocheted ripple stitch will have a multiple of 12, plus 3. So if your pattern calls for a chain of 51 stitches, but you want it bigger, you can add extra - but only 12 at a time.

Upcoming Classes & Events
Click the title or thumbnail to learn more and to register

Upcoming classes with available openings are listed below. Click the class name to learn more and to register or call us at 210-979-8255. Space is limited and sign-ups close a week before class begins, so sign up now! Note: masks are required for all our classes and private lessons.

Toe Up Socks - 2 seats available
Knit and fit the foot first - no picking up stitches and no grafting!
Three sessions - Thurs. Feb. 16, 23, & Mar. 2 at 5:30 pm
$50 (use your own supplies or buy them at Yarnivore for 10% off)

Knitting Workshop with Wendy - 4 seats available
Bring your projects and problems and we'll find solutions!
One upcoming session -  Mon. Feb. 20 at 1 pm
$20 per session (use your own supplies or buy them at Yarnivore for 10% off)

Hooker Helpdesk - 4 seats available
Knit and fit the foot first - no picking up stitches and no grafting!
Three sessions - Sun. Feb. 26, Mar. 12, & Mar. 26 at 2 pm
$50 (use your own supplies or buy them at Yarnivore for 10% off)

My First Socks - class is full
Learn to knit basic socks from the cuff down!
Three sessions - Sun. Feb. 26, Mar. 12, & Mar. 26 at 2 pm
$50 (use your own supplies or buy them at Yarnivore for 10% off)

Knitting My First Top-Down Sweater - 4 seats available
Make a perfectly fitted raglan sweater with no seams!
Four sessions - Mon. Mar. 6, 13, 20, & 27 at 1 pm
$50 (use your own supplies or buy them at Yarnivore for 10% off)

Shop News

Featured Notion
Perhaps you've seen the Papillon Shawl here at Yarnivore? It's so beautiful, but many knitters hesitate to try it because the shaping seems so complex. Well, here's some good news: there's an easier alternative! Roiling Waters by MarinJaKnits has similar waves of short-row color shaping, but in a rectangular shape. It also uses the "double-stitch" short-row technique, which many also find easier than "wrap-and-turn." The pattern is available in-store, on Ravelry, or on marinjaknits.com.

The version shown at right uses two colors of Louisa Harding Amitola, a DK-weight silk blend yarn that features a luxurious feel and beautiful long-color-run stripes.

Hours this week
11-5 Monday-Wednesday
11-7 Thursday
11-5 Friday & Saturday
12-5 Sunday

Upcoming Events
Spinners & Weavers Meet-Up - Saturday, Jan. Feb. 18 from noon-4 pm
Wander Luck Fibers Trunk Show - Saturday, Feb. 25 from noon-4 pm
Friday Night Cravings - Friday, Mar. 10 from 5-7 pm

Private Lessons
In-store and online private lessons are available! Please call 210-979-8255 to schedule a lesson! Wendy, Dawn, Moses, and Nancy are all available to help you with your projects! Private Lessons can also be scheduled outside of regular hours at the discretion of the teacher.

The Tip Jar

If you have trouble holding or tensioning your yarn because of aging or disability, this tip is for you!

Try using a yarn guide ring, such as the Clover Yarn Guide or the Norwegian Knitting Thimble on the first finger of your yarn-holding hand. Still need more tension? Run your yarn through a bracelet or watch band (preferably one that opens and closes). 

To keep up with our activities and real time announcements, please follow us on social media:
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If you have a question for one of our teachers, you can email us at yarnivoresa@gmail.com. 
You can also email Wendy with knitting or crochet questions at wendy.yarnivore@gmail.com or contact her through her Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/Wendy.at.Yarnivore/

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