Revised in response to questions and feedback in my classes.
The Perfect Stocking Stitch Tension Swatch
Look at the tension indicator in the pattern. It will typically be a number of stitches and rows over a 10cm/4 inch square, in stocking stitch. If it’s stated over a smaller area – for example, 1 or 2 inches, calculate the number of stitches over 4 inches. If it’s given in something other than stocking stitch, these instructions don’t apply.
____ stitches x _____ rows over 4 inches/10 cm square using ________ size needles.
Using the needles specified, cast on twice that many stitches. For example, if it states 18 stitches, cast on 36.
Bottom border:
Work 6 rows in garter stitch – that is, knitting every row.
Main body:
Right side: knit entire row.
Wrong side: k3, purl to last 3 stitches, k3.
Repeat these two rows until the main body portion measures 15 cm/6 inches.
Top border:
Work 6 rows garter stitch – knitting every row.
Cast off.
Steam or launder the swatch according to the instructions on the yarn ball band.