What is the Elizabeth Zimmermann Percentage System?

EPS is a method for designing sweaters using simple percentages of the chest circumference. Body stitches = 100%, upper arm = 33%, wrist = 20%, neck = 40%, body length = 25% of circumference. This creates well-proportioned garments without a pattern.

Do EPS percentages work for all sizes?

EPS works well for standard adult proportions. For children, the neck percentage may need to be larger (45-50%). For plus sizes, sleeve and body length percentages may need adjustment. Use EPS as a starting point and customise as needed.

Can I use EPS for cardigans?

Yes. Calculate exactly as for a pullover. For the front opening, add a steek or button band. The body, sleeve, and yoke proportions remain the same whether the garment opens at the front or not.

How does EPS work with top-down construction?

Cast on the neck stitches (40% of body). Place 4 raglan markers. Increase 8 stitches every other round until you reach body width (100%) and upper arm width (33%). Separate sleeves and body at the underarm.

Who was Elizabeth Zimmermann?

Elizabeth Zimmermann (1910-1999) was a British-born knitting teacher and author who revolutionised modern hand knitting. She popularised circular knitting, the percentage system, and creative knitting techniques through her books and PBS television series.

KnitCalcs

EPS Calculator — Elizabeth Zimmermann Percentage System

Calculate all sweater measurements from a single chest circumference using the Elizabeth Zimmermann Percentage System.

Chest Circumference

Finished garment chest measurement (with ease)

Stitch Gauge (per 10cm)

Your gauge in the project yarn

How We Calculate This

The Elizabeth Zimmermann Percentage System derives all sweater proportions from the chest circumference.

Key percentages

Body stitches: 100% of chest circumference
Upper arm: 33% of body stitches
Wrist: 20% of body stitches
Neck: 40% of body stitches
Body length: 25% of chest circumference
Sleeve length: 75% of chest circumference
Yoke depth: 25% of chest circumference

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Pattern Scaling Calculator

Scale a pattern up or down to a different gauge or yarn weight.

Multiple Sizing Calculator

Calculate stitch counts for multiple sizes from a base pattern.

Percentage System Calculator

Calculate garment proportions using the Elizabeth Zimmermann percentage system.

Custom Pattern Calculator

Calculate stitch and row counts for custom pattern dimensions.

Wrap Calculator

Calculate dimensions and yarn for rectangular wraps and stoles.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard yarn weights and gauge. Results may vary with individual tension, yarn brand, and needle size.