Confused About Circular Knitting Needles?
What every knitter ought to know about circular knitting needles
Circular knitting needles are a staple in every experienced knitter's kit, but many new or somewhat experienced knitters have never tried them before. If you have never tried circular knitting needles, I would really recommend them - for ease of use, speed and comfort, once you get used to them.
Circular Knitting Needles: A Primer
Circular knitting needles consist of two pointed needle 'ends' joined together by a flexible wire or a length of nylon cord. Some circular knitting needles producers sell the two needles and the joining cord separately, but most come in one piece.
1. There are several different kinds of circular knitting needles:
- wood
- metal
- plastic
- bamboo
- 'Addi turbo' (nickel-plated aluminum)
Each of these types of circular knitting needles has 'pros and cons,' but they really depend on the knitter you ask - mostly, it comes down to that wonderful thing called 'personal preference.'
2. Circular knitting needles are particularly practical for huge, bulky projects, like blankets or afghans, because they hold the accumulated 'bulk' better than straight needles.
3. Circular knitting needles are used exactly like two needles. The knitter holds one in each hand and knits as if having two separate needles. When you get to the end of your row, you exchange hands with the needle ends and start again!
4. Circular knitting needles come in all the same sizes as regular needles (in regard to thickness), and in lengths from 12" to 60". (The length of the circular knitting needle you use for a project should never be greater than the expected circumference of the finished object).
I use these needles all the time now, even when the pattern doesn't call for it. They are great to use - fast, tidy and smooth - and once you have tried circular knitting needles, you might wonder why you didn’t check them out sooner!
