How to count rows in knitting and crochet

In knitting, count the Vs in one column of stockinette from the cast-on up: each V is one row; in garter stitch each ridge is two rows. In crochet, count the posts of the stitches stacked on top of each other: each stitch height is one row. A stitch marker every 10 rows makes counting far easier.

Knitting

Stockinette: on the right side, every V is one row. Count up one column, starting just above the cast-on.
Garter stitch: every ridge is two rows. Count the ridges on one side and double it.
Rib: count the Vs in a knit column.
Lace and cables: count from the last cable cross or a marker you placed, rather than from the cast-on.

Crochet

Single crochet: rows are short and look alike. Count the ridges formed by each row; on the right side, they alternate between a smooth row and a bumpy row, so two visible stripes make two rows.
Double crochet: each tall post is one row, easy to count up a column.
In the round: count from the centre outwards, one stitch height per round.

Never lose count again

Hang a removable stitch marker every 10 rows.
Write the row number on your pattern as you finish it, or use a counter.
In YarnPath, the counter sits next to the row instructions, so the row you are on and the instructions for it are always together, and separate counters keep two sleeves at the same length.

Common questions

Do I count the cast-on row?

No. The cast-on is not a row. Count the stitches on your needle as the most recent row and count down to just above the cast-on edge.

How do I count rounds in amigurumi?

Count the little Vs running up from the magic ring towards your hook, one V per round. Moving a stitch marker to the first stitch of every round shows where each round begins.

What is the easiest way not to lose count?

Use a row counter, either a clicker on your needle or an app such as YarnPath, and press it at the end of every row, not the beginning.

Stuck on this step? In the YarnPath app you can photograph your work and the coach tells you what went wrong and how to fix it. Get YarnPath

Updated 5 November 2026.