Swatch/gauge question
 

I got my Debbie Bliss /cotton-wool yarn in today. Just stunning, light slate blue. I'm glad I opted for a cotton/wol blend over a cotton, the wool does give it a little spring.

I'm knitting the hourglass sweater(last minute gifts). The recommended needle is 3 and gauge is 25 =4". I was so excited to find a cotton that I didn't pay that close attention to the recommendations. :rollseyes:. Which could of been a real problem, but knitted it up and though the stitches could be a little tighter--you can't see through the stitches :D .

Q.#1. I need to get a gauge of 19=4". I'm getting 20=4", should I move down a needle size (I'm using a 6 now). If I move down I'll be using a 5.

Q.#2. I'm a 38 bust, and the size for the pattern go from 37, 41, 45. (This is the finished size) Which size should I use. I was thinking 41?

thanks,
knitbebe

Try knitting a swatch with the 5's and see whatcha get. And, the size you knit should depend on how much "ease" (wiggle room) you want in the sweater. If you want a body skimming sweater, then knit the 38 (maybe use the 6's then). If you want it to be baggier, knit the 41.

If you have a sweater that you love the fit of, measure that to get an idea of what size you want this sweater to be.