Why do we go down a needle size for ribbing? Curly Purly Q

[texmati]

I'm working on my first soaker ever-- (no I don't have kids, and yes I have a drawer full of baby stuff that I knit in case I ever have kids )

I'm working this curly purly soaker with size 2 needles, and have gotten to the part where it says to size down 2 sizes. I don't have any needles smaller than the size 2's.

My plan was to just keep doing with the size 2's, but I wanted to check here and see what the reason for the smaller needle size was anyways.

[lyttlewon]

The curly purly soaker can be a non tie soaker so the smaller rib will help it stay up with no drawstring. You can always add a drawstring if you decide it needs it.

[rootzdawta]

Originally Posted by aquarian

I'm working on my first soaker ever-- (no I don't have kids, and yes I have a drawer full of baby stuff that I knit in case I ever have kids )

I'm working this curly purly soaker with size 2 needles, and have gotten to the part where it says to size down 2 sizes. I don't have any needles smaller than the size 2's.

My plan was to just keep doing with the size 2's, but I wanted to check here and see what the reason for the smaller needle size was anyways.

I'm curious as to why you need to go down past a size two. The needle sizes I use for that soaker are 3, 5 and 7. I start with 3, go up to 5 and do the main part with 7. Are you sure you're reading the pattern correctly??

[texmati]

Originally Posted by rootzdawta

I'm curious as to why you need to go down past a size two. The needle sizes I use for that soaker are 3, 5 and 7. I start with 3, go up to 5 and do the main part with 7. Are you sure you're reading the pattern correctly??

Oh gosh, I'm such a moron. You are correct, it says that in the first line of the pattern. doh!

But in order to get gauge, I have to go to a size 2 needle.... *sigh* I'm going to do the whole thing in a size two, and add the drawstring as the above poster suggested.

I usually just make up patterns as I go using measurements and swatches. Reading patterns closely is a talent in itself!

Thanks everyone for the help!

[lnupermom]

But in order to get gauge, I have to go to a size 2 needle

What yarn are you using?
How did you check your gauge?

[Leilalu]

Sometimes measuring tapes can stretch. I would check yours?

You really have to use 3 different needles for that pattern. You might get away with 2, but more than one.

ribbing is vulnerable in that it stretches a LOT. If you use the same size needles it will be falling off(though not if knit with size 2's!) and the design is such that it is a gradual increase in size and fits so beautifully on the waist over a diaper.

[texmati]

I was using a metal measuring tape.

I think the issue is that I'm a v. loose knitter plus, I was using patons classic wool-- maybe sport or sock weight? And very thin because it's kinda old.

I know it's the wrong weight for the pattern, but it was a total score at the thrift store, and I don't have any wool for soakers.

I'm nearly done with the soaker- I just have to learn to kitchner the under side and add the cuffs. I'm going to also put it a way with a few lengths of yarn, so I can adjust it if I ever do have a kid.

Ya'll are so lucky that you can put your knits right on your babies!