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How Many Stitches Do I Need for a Neckband?

Two practical ways to find your starting stitch count.

Measure the neck edge and multiply by your band stitch gauge, or hold the neckline up to the needlebed with a slight stretch to estimate the needles needed.

Why This Works

Neckbands are more of an art than a science. Measuring gives you a starting stitch count based on your gauge, while using the needlebed lets you judge the neckline directly. A little stretch helps the band fit snugly and lie flat.

Try This

  • For a pullover, join one shoulder. For a cardigan, join both shoulders.
  • Hold the neck edge up to the needlebed, stretching it slightly.
  • If your machine has gate pegs, temporarily hang the neckline on them to estimate the needles needed.
  • When picking up, hang each end and the center first.
  • Keep dividing the sections in half and hanging them evenly. Along row edges, you won’t necessarily pick up one stitch for every row.
  • Allow an extra stitch where the band will be seamed.

My favorite: use the needlebed

  • Hold the neck edge up to the needlebed, stretching it slightly.
  • If your machine has gate pegs, temporarily hang the neckline on them.
  • Use the span to estimate how many needles you need.
  • When hanging the neckline on the needles, place each end and the center first. Keep dividing the sections in half and hanging them evenly.
  • Allow an extra stitch where the band will be seamed.

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