No matter what type of knitting needle you use, the points of the needles can make a big difference. Sharp points make it easier to accurately work with the stitches, especially on fine yarn. Needles with a more rounded point are good for bulky yarn and safer for kids. If you get part way through your project and want to start a new project it’s easy to unscrew them add some end stops and start casting on again. Plus you’re less likely to lose one of your pair if they’re held together with a cable!! Bamboo vs Metal Knitting Needles Some yarn feels better on needles made from certain materials. If you find that your stitches are sliding off the needles too easily or that they aren't sliding along the needles enough, try another set with a different finish.

Knitting needles come in many styles, sizes, and materials and it can be confusing to know which kind to use when. Whether you 're buying your first set, sorting through a vintage knitting treasure trove, or expanding your collection, this guide is here to help! If you’re worried about which size of needle to choose the label on your yarn will generally tell you which size (usually in mm) works best with that yarn. This knitting needle guide should also help Straight needles range from 9 to 14 inches long for most sizes, but you may find shorter or longer needles too. When knitting in the round, have the right length in a circular needle is important. A needle length too long means the end stitch and the beginning stitch can’t be joined without over stretching the stitches. Refer to the pattern you’re using. What Are The Longest Knitter Needles? Whether you’re 8 or 88, beginners are best with bamboo or wooden needles as their rougher surface means stitches are less likely to slide off unintentionally.

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When you’re just beginning how do you choose the best knitting needles for beginners in general and the best knitting needles for you? Shorter lengths (around 15cm) are often recommended for children but are also useful for smaller projects or when you’re travelling. I personally prefer interchangeables such as these KNIT PRO interchangeables as they offer so much more flexibility and are easier to store than buying each size of needles in several cable lengths! (this set on the right below is good for helping you decide whether you prefer wood or metal too) US 000 (1.5mm), 0 (2mm), 01 (2.5mm), 02 (3mm), 2.25mm, 2.75mm, 3 (3.25mm), 3.75, 4 (3.5mm), 5, 6 (4mm), 7 (4.5mm), 8 (5mm), 9 (5.5mm), 10 (6mm), 10.5 (6.5mm), 10.75 (7mm), 11 (8mm), 13 (9mm), 15 (11mm), 17 (12mm), 19 (15mm), 36 (20mm), 50 (25mm) Top prize goes to one of my customers who turned a wine box on it’s side and uses the bottle compartments to separate her different sized needles!

Perfect for chunky knits like blankets and household décor, these handmade quality needles suitable for extreme knitting. Don’t think you have to keep them for special occasions though….. oh no.…. circular needles are the go to for me, it’s so easy to work a flat project then swap your needles over just as you would with straight needles and when your ready for a coffee break those stitches are MUCH less likely to slide off if they’re sitting pretty on the cable ;o) Metal needles may move more smoothly for fast knitters, but softer materials such as bamboo or wood are generally recommended as they have slightly less resistance when clashed together and can be easier on the joints. Want the best yarn for baby blankets? Discover the contenders with my guide. Extra Long Circular Needles addi Turbo Circulars – 40.”It depends on how many stitches of wool you need to have on the circular cable. Too short a cable could mean you can’t fit all the stitches.

Pointy or not pointy? That all depends on…. yep you guessed it…. your yarn, or if you’re a ‘tapper’. These are perfect for flat projects such as sweaters, scarves or blankets and many people love their straight needles over circulars.Once you have more knitting experience you’ll start to notice the characteristics of different yarn materials.