wpi gauge tool

You can purchase a WPI gauge online or make your own (free) in a couple of minutes using a straight oblong knitters gauge (see photo below)

click for larger image

Note the shape gauge in the photo marked with a red X is not suitable, both of the others are.

Or

use a standard school ruler, a broomstick or make one from cardboard using the diagram below.

Simple wraps per inch tool

How to make the gauge

If using a needle gauge Use it as is and hop down to "how to use the gauge"

If using a ruler or broomstick etc

.Using a felt pen or marker make a line 1" (2.5cms).from the left end (line A ) measure 1" (2.5cms).from line A and make another line (line B).

The space between A and B should be exactly 1" (2.5cms).

Or

Cut a piece of card or cardboard 1" (2.5cms) x 6" (15cms) then repeat above steps.

How to use the gauge

Now placing the cut end of your yarn at the back of the card begin wrapping around the card until you have filled the space between line A and B.

Wrap the yarn neatly side by side - DO NOT STRETCH THE YARN as you wrap - you will obtain a false reading ie.too many wraps per inch. You should have no gaps between the wraps

Now count the wraps on your wpi gauge tool. This will give you the WPI. i.e. Patons Jet is WPI-8. Jet is an 12 ply equivalent.

If Patons Jet is called for in the pattern but isn't available at a reasonable price in your location check through your stash see what other yarn you have that will wrap 8 times around your gauge and use that ( or shop for more !!.)

Or take your gauge and asking your friendly craft shop assistant to let you test another yarn.

We are currently in the process of updating all our pages and patterns to include ply, International symbol and WPI this will help you to easily substitute the best available yarn for each project.

CAVEAT : Do not use this method for eyelash or other funky fur type hairy yarns with long ends and thin cores - it doesn't work !

When substituting unfamiliar yarns - and where fit is crucial ie gloves and socks - we suggest once you've selected your needle size and matched your yarn to a pattern you knit a test square before committing to the entire project.

You now have your wpi gauge tool and know how to use it - next step is to visit the wraps per inch chart page - put this knowledge into practice.

Go to Houghton Avenue yarn craft ideas home page

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Go to top of this wpi gauge tool page.