Determining the gauge of your knitting is a crucial step in achieving the desired outcome for your project. Gauge refers to the number of stitches and rows per unit of measurement, typically over a 4-inch (10 cm) square. By checking the gauge, you can ensure that the finished size of your knitted piece will match the measurements provided in the pattern.
Checking the gauge is also important for consistency in your knitting. If your gauge is off, even by a small amount, it can lead to a significant difference in the final size of your project. For example, if a sweater pattern calls for a gauge of 20 stitches per 4 inches, but you are actually knitting 18 stitches per 4 inches, your sweater will turn out larger than intended.