How the Remainder Math Works
When dividing stitches across a row, exact whole divisions rarely happen in real patterns. For instance, when increasing 7 stitches across 43 stitches:
43 stitches ÷ 7 increases = 6 base interval (with a remainder of 1)
If you put the remainder 1 at the very end of your row, the piece will distort or flare unevenly to one side. Our algorithm uses symmetrical interleaving (similar to Bresenham's line algorithm in computer graphics) to disperse wider intervals across the center and flanks of your fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do you increase stitches evenly across a crochet row?
- Divide your starting stitch count by the number of increases to find the base spacing interval and remainder. For instance, if you have 47 stitches and need 6 increases: 47 ÷ 6 = 7 remainder 5. You will work 5 intervals of 8 stitches ([sc 7, inc]) and 1 interval of 7 stitches ([sc 6, inc]), interleaved symmetrically.
- Why do crochet patterns say "increase evenly spaced" instead of writing out the row?
- Pattern designers grade multi-size garments (XS through 5XL). Rather than writing 6 separate pages of complex remainder math for every individual size, designers instruct the maker to "increase X stitches evenly" across the waistband, sleeve, or yoke.
- How do you decrease evenly without creating a visible bulge?
- Distribute decreases symmetrically across the row using standard invisible decreases (sc2tog). Staggering your decreases prevents consecutive gathered stitches that cause puckering or uneven fabric tension.
- Does this calculator work for knitting as well as crochet?
- Yes! The mathematical distribution of stitches across an interval is identical in knitting and crochet. In knitting, an increase is typically M1 (make 1) or kfb, while a decrease is k2tog or ssk.