Gauge swatch verses Tension Swatch

Play!

1. Start knitting stockenette at the tightest tension that will knit.  (If the tension is too tight, you'll see stitches that don't form properly.
2. Knit 2-4 inches. Knit a marker row (change colors, work a few eyelets across the row or knit a sewing thread in with the main yarn)
3. Keep knitting sections, marking the tension dial number in each section.  Knit the last section as loosely as possiblle, even if you think this will be too loose ... I'm often very pleasantly surprised at the result.
4. Transfer every other needle to out of work postion and knit a section - put all needles back into work.
5. Work a simple tuck, or slip, or any stitch pattern of your choice ... base your tension dial setting on the stockinette sections you just knit.

The point of this exercise is to put the yarn through it's paces ... ignite your creativity, and get a feel for what the yarn can do.  If you don't have a huge cone, you can always re-wind this knitting. At this point, you probably know exactly what you want to do with this yarn.  Knit your Gauge Swatch, dress it and and you are ready to design and knit your sweater.