Using Excel as a row counter

[MzMolly]

I'm working on a cardigan pattern that is super simple but it requires 14 repeats of a 16 row pattern, with a small pattern detail at rows 8 and 16. I found my normal row counter (the little one slipped onto the needle) just wasn't helping me keep track faithfully. With such a large *non-thinking* project I zone out and forget to roll the counter forward. Which row was I on and in which repeat??

I decided to make a little chart using the Excel program on my computer. Just a simple table with the total number of repeats down the left hand side and the 16 rows in each repeat across the top. Then I added the grid lines and printed it.

Now, as I finish each row I just put a check mark in the box. I know which repeat I'm on, I know which row I'm on and I know when to pattern.

I'm really liking this and maybe others will find it useful as well.

[Shandeh]

I do the exact same thing! LOVE using Excel for keeping track of stuff.

[dcrozier]

I do the exact same thing! LOVE using Excel for keeping track of stuff.

Love those computer programs that save LOTS of time and effort.

[gruvey9]

I do that too. I have also typed up a whole pattern that way because I was making so many of them and it was easy to reprint when the paper got ratty

[MzMolly]

I do that too. I have also typed up a whole pattern that way because I was making so many of them and it was easy to reprint when the paper got ratty

That's a good idea. I tend to keep the original instructions in a plastic sheet cover and then photo copy them because I like to write all over them as I'm working along to mark my spot.

Does anyone know of a computer program that charts crochet patterns?