Generating Charts for Knitting Patterns Part 1(cont)---Chart Fundimentals

When should you use a chart?

A chart should be used if it will clarify the directions. Sometimes it is easier to use a chart rather than written row by row directions. The difficulty of the pattern will determine whether you will use one or the other, or both.

For some patterns it is much easier for the knitter to use a chart, because they can track their work on the chart with highlighter pen, post its, etc.  For complicated directions, it is easy for the designer to make a mistake in the written directions. A chart allows you to see the right side of the fabric with the stitches and colors in place.

For advanced patterns where the directions are more clear using a chart, it is safe to assume that the target audience will have the skills to work from that chart.

Charts can be used to show stitch work (cables and texture), color work, lace and a combination of the three techniques.

Basic Rules for Using Charts

• The general directions must tell how to work the chart. 
• Each chart needs a title. Refer to the chart title in the general directions. 
• Number RS rows along the right margin.
• Number WS rows along the left margin.
• Charts in the round should be numbered along the right margin for all rounds. 
• Stitches should be numbered along the top or bottom.
• If only RS rows are charted, there must be directions for working WS rows.
• All charts must have a legend or key. Abbreviations must match the abbreviation section of the pattern.

Chart Legend or Key:

• Defines symbols, color designations, or both. 
• If using abbreviations, the abbreviations must match those in the Abbreviation Section of the pattern. 
• May or may not give directions. If directions are not given, they should be stated in the abbreviation section of the pattern.
• Only one legend is needed for each pattern.

Examples of Chart Legends: 

This legend only gives the abbreviation or name of the symbol. The directions or definition would need to be provided in the Abbreviation Section of the pattern. The abbreviation or name must be the same on both the legend and in the abbreviation section.

This legend gives both the abbreviation or name of the symbol as well as directions for working that symbol. It's always a good idea to include these in the abbreviation section as well.

Color legends can use symbols, a color or a combination.

This legend uses symbols to represent different colors.

This legend uses a colored cell to represent each color. This can be confusing if the knitter decides to substitute colors in the pattern.

Colored symbols used to represent the different colors.

Symbols placed in colored cells.  In this instance the symbol is relates to the color. 

Sometimes you will need to use a stitch symbol along with a color symbol.

In this pattern two stitches will need to be knit together using C4.

The main directions would state the stitch pattern that the colors are worked in.  Example:
Work in st st according to chart, slipping stitches as indicated.