Fit a desired stitch count to the nearest number that works with a repeating pattern while keeping edge stitches separate.
below / above target
valid count = repeat × whole repeats + edge stitchesA target of 106 with a 4-stitch repeat and 2 edge stitches already fits: 26 repeats × 4 + 2.
Repeat and edge stitches are different
“Multiple of 4 plus 2” means whole four-stitch repeats plus two additional stitches in total, unless the pattern explicitly says the addition is per side. Confusing total and per-side edges is a common reason a cast-on fails to fit.
The calculator returns valid counts below and above the target. Choose according to finished width, ease and any border that will add width.
Check the pattern wording
Setup rows, symmetry stitches and changing repeats may not behave like ordinary selvedges. Treat the pattern’s cast-on formula as authoritative and use this tool to test candidate counts against it.
How to use this page
- Enter the desired stitch count.
- Enter the pattern repeat and total edge stitches.
- Compare the nearest valid counts below and above your target.
What to check before you rely on the result
- Check whether the pattern describes edge stitches as total or per side.
- Some repeats include setup stitches that are not simple edge stitches.