I do it when gauge is important for the project. Then I only do the very minimum... cast on 20-30 stitches, knit a few rows in pattern, measure the stitches per inch.
I've never made a whole swatch and washed it.
I haven't even kept a partial swatch I've started.
I have always consumed the swatching yarn in the final project.
However, early last month I was working on a design idea. After I sketched out the finished item and noted how to make each section, I decided I should swatch out part of the plan.
Since I don't have the yarn made for this design yet, I went to my stash and found a couple of samples that were sent as part of a larger order. Neither of these yarns are something I would purposely go for. The pink is very splitty, so I don't like working with it. But they are the perfect size for swatching ideas.
After a couple of tests, I believe I have a good plan now.
Happy Fiber Arts Friday.
Intrigued to find out what the plan is????
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