Flat Knitting Counter

Track back-and-forth rows.

Knitting Techniques
Active Counter
Flat Row Count
0row
Direction (L-to-R)
1dir
Tap Anywhere to Count
Press Space or ↑ on your keyboard • Auto-saves instantly
Ready to count. Changes are automatically saved in local storage.

How Flat Knitting Counter Works?

The Flat Knitting Counter works by counting Flat Row Count for every pass across the needle and tracking Direction (L-to-R) for the turns. Flat knitting works back and forth, so every row ends with a turn.

  1. Count the row

    Tap the count pad or press Space at the end of each row before you turn.

  2. Log the turn

    Press → at each turn to keep a running turn count.

  3. Watch the edges

    Work the selvedge the pattern gives, such as slipping the first stitch of every row.

  4. Fix a miscount

    Press ↓ or ← to remove an extra row or turn.

Flat Knitting Counter Formula

The Flat Knitting Counter formula is flat length = rows ÷ row gauge. Selvedge rows add no length, and slipped selvedge stitches show 1 chain per 2 rows.

Length
L = R ÷ g

R is Flat Row Count and g is rows per inch.

Slipped selvedge chains
Chains = R ÷ 2

Each chain covers 2 rows, which helps when you pick up stitches later.

Turns
Turns = R

One turn ends each row.

Worked example: A worsted scarf of 60 in (152.4 cm) at 6 rows per inch needs 360 rows. A slipped selvedge shows 180 chains on each edge.

Flat Knitting Counter Conversion Table

The Flat Knitting Counter conversion table lists 5 common selvedge edges and how each one changes the edge count.

Selvedge edges for flat knitting
SelvedgeInstructionEdge chainsGood for
Slipped garterSlip first st, knit last st1 per 2 rowsPick-up edges
Chain edgeSlip first st purlwise wyif1 per 2 rowsScarves
Garter edgeKnit first and last st1 bump per 2 rowsStockinette that curls
Plain edgeWork edge sts in pattern1 per rowSeamed pieces
I-cord edgeSlip 3 wyif, knit 3 at endRolled cordBlankets

Choose a plain edge for pieces that will be seamed with mattress stitch.

What is Flat Knitting Counter?

A Flat Knitting Counter is a row counter for knitting worked back and forth on straight or circular needles. Each row ends with a turn, and the next row works across the other side of the fabric.

Scarves, blankets, sweater panels and dishcloths are knitted flat. The Stitches Counter tool saves the row and turn counts in your browser.

What are the uses of Flat Knitting Counter?

There are 4 main uses of the Flat Knitting Counter, including scarves, panels and blankets.

  • Scarves

    Count rows to reach a scarf length.

  • Garment panels

    Count rows on backs, fronts and sleeves knitted flat.

  • Blankets

    Count rows on blankets knitted flat on long circular needles.

  • Dishcloths

    Count rows for square cloths.

About the Flat Knitting Counter

Tailored for straight needle or back-and-forth circular knitting with automatic row alternation, edge selvedge reminders, and turning counts.

How to Use This Tool Efficiently

  • ✓Slip the first stitch of every row purlwise for a clean, stable chain edge.
  • ✓Differentiate right-to-left knit passes from left-to-right purl return passes.

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