Uneven Tension

What it is

Uneven tension appears when stitch size varies enough to disturb the surface, width or edge of the fabric.

How Ruke patterns use it

Ruke garments rely on calm, consistent fabric because gauge and finishing shape the final silhouette. Tension should be evaluated across a washed swatch before every small variation is treated as a fault.

When to use it

Use this guide when rows, columns, colour joins or transitions between knit and purl look inconsistent.

What to check

Check hand position, needle transitions, yarn joins, row-side tension and the fabric again after washing.

Common mistakes

Pulling individual stitches tight, changing needle size mid-project, or judging unblocked fabric too early.