Swatching

Camilla asked "I always have to try several needles before I can get the right gauge. I can't afford to buy multiple size needles--what should I do? My nearest LYS is "Walmart" and I doubt seriously they'll let me try needles."

Based on the experiences you have had, do you usually have to use bigger needles than the pattern calls for, or smaller?

The answer to this questions tells you whether you are a loose knitter or a tight knitter. If you need to use bigger needles to get the gauge, you are a tight knitter. If you usually use smaller needles to get gauge, you are a loose knitter.

If you have needles at home that are close to the size in the pattern, try swatching with them and see how your gauge is - in the big picture, it is more important that you like the feel of the fabric you are producing - not too stiff and not too sleazy.

Because we will be growing our sweater from the top down, once you have produced a fabric you like in your swatch, you can adjust the pattern by picking a larger or smaller size if the gauge is a bit off for your needles.

Bottom line - swatch with what you have and see if you like the fabric. If you do not like it, then go up or down one size of needles to improve the hand of the fabric, get them, and go for it.