Quick fix: Count every stitch on your needle right now and compare to what the pattern says. Then work backwards row by row — the error is almost always a missed yarn over or extra decrease.
What you are seeing
You reach the end of a lace row and have the wrong number of stitches. The pattern no longer lines up, and the eyelets are shifting out of position. Lace is unforgiving — every yarn over must be paired with a decrease to keep the count balanced.
Why it happens
- A missed yarn over (no new stitch created, net loss of 1)
- An accidental double yarn over
- A decrease worked twice (k2tog worked on 3 stitches instead of 2)
- A missed decrease (yarn over added but no decrease to compensate)
- Losing your place in the row and working the wrong part of the repeat
Fix it now
- Count your current stitches and note the difference from the pattern count (e.g., 2 stitches short).
- Place a lifeline if you don't already have one — thread smooth waste yarn through all live stitches on your needle now.
- Work back through your last row visually: use a row counter and the pattern chart to match each stitch to its expected instruction.
- When you find the error, drop down to that stitch and fix it: add a yarn over where one is missing, or close a mistaken double yarn over by dropping one loop.
- If you can't locate the exact error, rip back to your lifeline and re-work the row using the chart.
Prevent it next time
- Insert a lifeline every 10 rows — thread smooth yarn or dental floss through live stitches
- Count stitches at the end of every right-side row before turning
- Use a magnetic chart holder so you always know which row you're on
- Work lace in good light and when you won't be interrupted