Knitting Decrease Calculator

YARN & KNITTING

Shaping a sleeve or waist? Enter your current and target stitch counts to find how many decreases to work and how far apart to space them.

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Decreases needed
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Spacing
Decreases = current minus target. Spacing = current stitches divided by the number of decreases.

How it works

To remove stitches evenly, subtract the target from your current count to get the number of decreases, then divide the current count by that number for the spacing between each. Even spacing keeps the shaping smooth and invisible.

Keep edges clean. Work decreases a stitch or two in from the edge rather than at the very edge, so seaming stays tidy and the shaping looks deliberate.

See the Knitting Increase Calculator and the Understanding Gauge.

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The calculators and tools on Formula Factory are provided for general guidance and informational purposes only. Results are estimates based on standard formulas and the values you enter — they do not constitute professional engineering, electrical, or architectural advice. Always verify calculations with a qualified professional before making decisions for any safety-critical, code-compliance, or commercial application. Formula Factory makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy or completeness of any result, and accepts no liability for errors, omissions, or any outcomes arising from reliance on this information.