Counting Rows with Stitch Markers
I tend to count rows when I knit. It is especially handy for making sure sleeves or socks match each other. None of the row counters I have used work for me. Honestly, it is user error. I forget to click or make a mark on my notes. I need something more foolproof.
Instead, I use stitch markers. They don't get in the way and don't require me to remember anything. Low tech perfection!
If I'm counting more than 50 rows or rounds, I use two colors of removable stitch markers. I like the metal bulb shaped markers as they lock closed, but any removable stitch markers will work. Or bits of leftover yarn.
In the picture above I am using orange markers for multiples of 50 and yellow markers for multiples of 10. The orange marker on the lower left is round 100. At the top left there is another orange marker on round 150 and two yellow markers above it. I've marked 170 rounds and then have 9 rounds above the most recently placed marker. Therefore, I am on round 179.
It is an easy system. I never have to count more than ten rows or rounds and I can see at a glance which row or round I am on. I place the markers by catching both legs of a single stitch on a multiple of ten. Then I count rows above the marker. For best visibility, use markers that contrast with your project. As I move past a 50 row marker (orange), I remove one of the 10 row markers (yellow) from below and move it up as needed. Until then, they hang out on my project so they don't get lost. The 50 row markers stay put so I can easily count by 50s. If my project, in this case a top-down sweater, has 232 rounds I will use 4 orange markers on rounds 50, 100, 150, and 200 followed by three yellow markers on rounds 210, 220, and 230. Two rounds after the last marker and I'm casting off.
I also use removable stitch markers for beginning of round (BOR) markers.
I pin them vertically at the beginning of the round between the first and last stitches of the round. Why not put them on the needle? I prefer to not have to pass stitch markers and I can't accidentally drop them. As my knitting progresses, the two stitch markers leap frog up. If you use just one it can be easy to lose your place. With two you have a reference to work with.
On this sweater I am doing hip increases at the "side seams". So, I am using another pair at the other side seam. I know this is the BOR because the other side has yellow and tan markers. I put my favorite color at the BOR. Also, I tend to put the round counting stitch markers just past the BOR. If you look closely, you will see alternating M1L and M1R hip increases.
If you have any questions or something isn't clear, please email me at maia@blacksquirrelberkeley.com.