I’m still amazed at how different the same lace looked on different size needles!

The Stitch Pattern

I made the same stitch pattern – Little Parachute – for all three sizes. I had intended to make the same number of vertical repeats, but apparently, counting is too difficult for this Math major *smh*

What I Used

I used 3 different sizes of Chiaogoo Metal Needles.

They were in sizes US 6, 8 and 10 (4.0, 5.0 and 6.0 mm).

The gauge went up quite a bit as I increased needle size.

The Yarn Behaved Differently Too

As the needle size went up, the yarn became drapey and squishy and dreamy! The size didn’t just go up proportionally – it grew at a much faster rate. I suspect it’s because larger eyelets can stretch even more, as well as the natural bump you get when you increase needle size.

Take a look:

The Swatches Felt Different As Well

The swatch on the US 6 was firm. It wasn’t like cardboard, but it felt like it could defend itself pretty well.

The US 10 swatch, on the other hand, had this lovely feel to it. It surprised me how different it felt, and I even left thinking that I’d love an entire shawl knit up in Tillie (but, I know better – I’d never finish it).

My Thoughts on the Sizes

If the lace is going to be in an area that requires either structure or more modesty, the smallest needle is the way to go. And if you don’t want to use the smallest one, I’d recommend wearing a garment underneath it in a shade that matches your skin, or a shade that’s wildly different from your skin color (IOW, don’t get “close enough” because it just cheapens the overall look, and you handiwork deserves better).

Regarding the structure, if the garment has seams, I suggest making the seams sturdy. In truth, that might not be enough structure. I remember this sweater that I had as a teen, and it would grow and grow in length as I wore it. In some cases, you can’t have it all. Trying to force a square peg into a round hole just isn’t going to end well.

If the yarn won’t need to be a cover-up as well, you’ll be thanked with a project that has lovely drape.

All of this Means

You already know what I’m going to say – swatch.

And know that the weight of the overall garment will make the top portion stretch as the day goes on.

To get an idea of the weight, I’ll do a quick calculation of the weight of a ball of the yarn TIMES the number of balls. It’ll give you an idea.

But quickly – animal fibers will usually weigh less than plant-based fibers. It’s often a good thing when a yarn manufacturer mixes in some polyester/nylon/another man-made fiber – as long as it still gives good breathability.

There’s a lot to think about with each project, but doing it will make for a much better end-product! You’ll proudly wear it and exclaim “I made it”.

Isn’t that the best feeling of all?