Why Accurate Counting Matters
Losing track of your row count is the most common source of mistakes in knitting and crochet. Miss one row of shaping and your sleeves won't match. Lose count in a lace repeat and the pattern falls apart.
Accurate counting is especially critical for garment shaping (increasing and decreasing at specific intervals), colorwork patterns that repeat over a set number of rows, lace patterns where every row is different, and any pattern where two pieces need to match (like sleeves or sock pairs).
Manual Counting Techniques
For stockinette, each V-shape on the right side represents one stitch across. Each horizontal ridge between V-columns is one row. For garter stitch, every ridge (bump) represents two rows.
In crochet, each stitch is clearly visible as a separate post. Rows are easier to count in crochet than knitting because each row is taller.
Place a locking stitch marker every 10 or 20 rows to create reference points. This way, if you lose count, you only need to recount from the last marker, not from the beginning.
For complex patterns, photocopy the pattern and use a ruler or sticky note to track your current row. Move it down one line as you complete each row.
Digital Counters vs. Physical Counters
Physical row counters (the clicker type that sits on your needle) work fine for simple patterns but have limitations: they only track one number, they can get bumped accidentally, and they can't be set to alert you at specific rows.
Digital counters like our Stitch Counter tool solve all of these problems. You can run multiple counters at once (row count, pattern repeats, shaping intervals), set reminders at specific rows, and your count saves automatically if you close the browser.
The key advantage of a phone-based counter is that you always have your phone with you. Dedicated physical counters get lost or forgotten.
Staying on Track with Complex Patterns
For patterns with multiple simultaneous instructions (like 'decrease every 6th row AND work cable pattern every 8th row'), use a separate counter for each instruction. Our tool lets you name each counter so you don't mix them up.
For colorwork charts, use a row counter in combination with the chart. Some crafters use a magnetic board with the chart and move a magnetic strip up one row at a time.
If you put your project down for days or weeks, always write a note about exactly where you stopped. Future you will thank past you. Even just 'Row 47, about to start decrease' is enough to pick up confidently.