How do you make a gauge swatch?

Dear users, dear authors,
Do you have any tips and tricks about gauge swatches?

I’m bumping this thread again, since questions about this topic come up every now and then.

Hi everyone,
even though a gauge swatch may sometimes seem tedious and unnecessary, it often helps prevent the hassle of having to rip out your work.
In my opinion, a gauge swatch is essential if you’re using a different yarn than the one specified in the pattern and you’re making a garment. After all, you want it to fit properly in the end.
Use the yarn of your choice and work the desired pattern into a 10 x 10 cm square. Once the square is finished, count the stitches needed for a width of 10 cm and the rows worked for a height of 10 cm.
Now it’s very easy to calculate how many stitches you need to cast on to achieve your desired width. The same process applies to the height. 

I don’t think anyone really likes doing a gauge swatch. With amigurumi, you can usually skip it because size generally doesn’t matter. But with clothing, there’s just no getting around it.
Here’s a quick tip: Traudelina’s shop has great charts for anyone who isn’t big on conversions!