Magic Formula

Mathematical equation for charting stitches and rows. Diophantine Equation


In charting knitting patterns, we use this equation for numerous applications.
  • Straight line decreasing and increasing of side seams on skirts, sleeves, slacks, and jackets
  • Multiple increasing or decreasing across a single row of knitting.
  • Placing darts and buttonholes
  • Arranging short row increments for curves
  • Determining the stitches in knitting a slanted line
  • One can determine rows and/or stitches to be increased or decreased WITHIN a definite amount of space.
  • Buttonhole placement, vertical or horizontal, can be situated in exactly balanced spots
  • Short row operations can be determined for shoulder slants, pockets, collars, and all kinds of sideways knitting.
Magic Formula (in/cm) Magic Formula (sts/rows)
Taper Formula