Hopefully you have your yarn and are ready to be swatching so that we can cast on this Thursday! Your target gauge is 16sts and 24 rows on US#8 needles. I find that it is hard to hit this on a US#8 unless you are a really loose knitter. I tried a US#9 instead. To make and check your swatch:

• Cast on over 18 sts (like 24) and knit a stockinette stitch square with one or two stitches of garter on the edges to help it lay flat.
• BLOCK THE SWATCH!!! It will likely grow.
• Here is a swatch with a ruler, as an example (from my Austin Hoodie project several months ago):

• Count the number of stitches or “V”s that you see within the four inches. When counting, use something to point at the stitches, like a needle. It helps. Pay close attention to partial stitches. Those partial stitches definitely make a difference to your gauge.
• If you count a number that is LOWER than 16, it means that you are knitting too loosely. In this case, go down a needle size and repeat above.
• If you count a number that is HIGHER than 16, it means that you are knitting too tightly. In this case, go up a needle size and repeat above.

If you aren’t sure, bring in the swatch! We are always happy to measure swatches. They should be off of needles and blocked though

In other (sad) news, I just wanted to let you all know that after several weeks of a struggle with Kirby and his failing liver, he passed away today. We had to make the decision to put him to sleep. His condition was only getting worse and he recently stopped eating entirely. We decided that it was best. Heinz is still here to visit with you on your next visit. He has been rather upset the past few days. I think he knew that Kirby’s time was getting near.

Kirby at the Holidays - 2010