Help me understand the gauge when crocheting?

Question

I want to make coasters and I don't know how to make the gauge for it or anything else. Do I make the gauge using the stitches the pattern calls for?

Answer 1

Yes, you use the stitch you will be using for that item. Then you look and see if your measurement matches theirs. For example if they say "6 stitches to the inch", then crochet until you have a rectangle 4 inches long. (No matter what gauge they are asking for, crochet a piece that is 4 inches long.) Count the stitches in each inch. If yours came out to more or less than 6 stitches in every inch, then you might be using the wrong size yarn or needle, or crocheting too tightly or too loosely. Or maybe that's just the way you crochet and you need to adjust the number of stitches so that you can crochet your way and still have the item come out the right size.

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Answer 2

Here is a link that explains guage for you.

Answer 3

If you make small projects, like coasters, often the gauge is as much work as a whole project.

In that case I would (and have) just gone by the needle/hook size in the pattern and on the yarn.

After you have made your first coaster you compare the measurements of it with those in the pattern or those you need.

If you think there is too much difference you change needle size.

(When you start with a new combination of yarn and needle you look at how it works and if it is too tight or loose for your liking you can also change needle size.)