What makes a lace pattern balanced?

A balanced lace pattern has an equal number of yarn overs (increases) and decreases in each row or round. This keeps the stitch count constant. If they are unequal, the stitch count changes each repeat, which may be intentional for shaped lace.

Why does my lace stitch count keep changing?

If your yarn overs and decreases are not equal, or if you are accidentally dropping or adding stitches around the yarn overs, your count will drift. Count your stitches at the end of each pattern repeat row to catch errors early.

Do lace patterns use more or less yarn than stockinette?

Lace generally uses slightly less yarn per unit area because yarn overs create open space. However, lace is usually blocked aggressively to open up the pattern, so the finished piece is larger, which can offset the yarn savings. Overall, lace uses roughly the same amount of yarn as stockinette for the same finished dimensions.

KnitCalcs

Lace Pattern Calculator — YOs, Decreases & Stitch Counts

Calculate stitch counts for lace patterns, verifying that yarn overs and decreases balance.

Pattern Repeat Size

YOs Per Repeat

Decreases Per Repeat

Total Repeats

Edge Stitches

How We Calculate This

This calculator helps you verify lace pattern stitch counts and check that increases (yarn overs) and decreases are balanced.

The formula

Total stitches = (Repeats x Repeat size) + Edge stitches

Balanced = Yarn overs per repeat equals Decreases per repeat

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

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Increase Calculator

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Decrease Calculator

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Stitch Pattern Repeat Calculator

Adjust stitch count to fit a pattern repeat plus edge stitches.

Cable Stitch Calculator

Calculate yarn usage and width changes for cable patterns.

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.