Pattern for size 6 needles, i only have size 10. -- knitting

Question

will it drsatically affect what i'm making? i have to cast on 40 stitches. should i change naything?

Answer 1

If you need to make something to fit, it's definitely essential to knit a swatch first. Depending on your gauge you may need to use different needles, but like someone else said, Sock are usually knit on three very small needles, and I would say not a good project for a beginner!

Answer 2

Lots of people use size 0, 1, and 2 US needles for socks so if you're using a size 10 that will make a big difference.  For afghans you can compensate by using two strands or more.   According to Ann Budd's book, The Handy Book of Patterns, the bigger the needle the fewer the stitches.  The fabric from a smaller needle creates a stiffer product.  Conversely, the bigger the needle the bigger the holes in the fabric between stitches and the softer it drapes.

The biggest thing that effects needle size is how loosely or tightly you knit so it's a good idea to knit a swatch no less than 4" x 4".  For me 40 sts would be a size 8 sock with a size 8 US needle.  

I wasn't keen on making swatches until I tried to knit a hat and it really does make a difference and saves time in the long run.

Size 6 and 7 needles are used quite often when knitting (ie:  dishcloths) so it might be worth your while to invest in one or both of these sizes.  One needle size up or down isn't that big a deal.

Answer 3

Yes, it makes a difference.  The finished fabric will not be the same as it would if  you knit with the correctly sized needles, it will be far more open and loose.  The gauge will be off and if this is a garment is will neither fit well or wear properly in the long run.  Best suggestion, either buy the correct sized needles or find a different pattern calling for the yarn and needles you have.  While you can fiddle with the number of stitches and rows to knit to get the right measurements, the finished product will not comeout as expected.

Answer 4

Why not just buy the size 6 needles. You will undoubtedly use them again and the size difference between a six needle and a ten is pretty great. Most people get addicted to socks anyway so I'm pretty sure you won't be wasting your money.

Answer 5

no it will just make it look like you used really low tension

Answer 6

yeah it will make your sock huge and have really loose and open stitches that will make it uncomfortable to wear.