I have used every type of affordable needle available in Australia over 50 years of knitting! I thought that casein were the best for my arthritic fingers until I happened upon Addi Skacel bamboo circulars last year, in Norway, of all places.(I was on a long holiday, and hanging out for some knitting to do...) I was HOOKED!! (And spoiled- alpaca blend yarn and one Addi Skacel circular for a scarf cost A LOT!!) I am now planning to buy an interchangeable set of these needles as a gift to myself!! Fifteen years ago I had had to give up knitting because of the pain from fibromyalgia. I tried just once more (with the casein) after a break of ten years, and I was in love again with knitting. Circulars have allowed me to keep going, and the Addi Skacel bamboo circulars have made my knitting experience even better. I think I deserve them!!
Yeah, Norway is an awesome place to live as a knitter. It's a beloved hobby here and it's even socially acceptable to knit during meetings. I love it! The only thing I don't like in stores in Norway is that most types of yarn here are quite scruffy, I don't think I could wear clothes out of those, they are very harsh. But some yarns are soft and amazing.
Many years ago, I inherited my grandmother's knitting supplies which included two books for baby knits and her collection of knitting needles! THIS was my "silver and gold". She knit so much that her plastic needles, which she'd had since around 1940, were bent. At some point when I was using them, they broke! Since then, it's been an adventure learning about the different kinds of needles...I have now become a knitting needles aficionado (I didn't want to say snob ;-) Years ago, I gave away all my straights in favor of good quality circulars and have never looked back!! I rarely use double pointed needles because most of the circs work well with the "magic needle" (using a longish cable is useful). My BIG treat to myself was buying a Harmony set from Knit Picks!! LOVE them! A while ago, someone on Ravelry was giving away her large supply of Addi Turbos and I was the fortunate recipient. Investing in a good quality needles has made my knitting life such a joy and yes, it IS what I'd like to do nearly all day long! Your videos are so clear and instructive, our own private knitting classes where we can pause, rewind, fast forward, thank you SO much!
I don't have a problem with aluminum needles. My only kvetch is the click clack sound they tend to make, but it's alright if you're alone. I do also have bamboo needles which I like, but depending on the finish, some of them cause too much drag and the stitches wont slide across the needles very well at all. I was using a certain acrylic yarn and boy, that stuff definitely wouldn't slide at all on the bamboo. I had to start all over again on a set of aluminum needles and those are working much better for this yarn. Today I just modified a new pair of bamboo needles. I'm using 40% wool blended with 60% acrylic and it was grabbing a little too much to my new bamboo needles. I sanded them down just a little bit with very very fine sand paper and I coated them with 2-3 layers of warm paraffin wax and buffed them smooth with a cotton terry cloth rag. My yarn is working easier on them now. :-) I've had to sand and wax a set of bamboo crochet hooks some time ago too for the same reason. They were a little too rough on the yarn, now they work just fine. I say away from acrylic needles and hooks, I don't like them at all. To me it all depends on a person's skill level, the type of yarn you're using and what works for you and your budget.
I can see by the comments that others besides me are in favor of the aluminum needles so negatively spoken of in this video. I have some Boye needles (these are some of the ones she is talking about that sell in variety stores) that I've had for many years, and are slick. Some of the oldest ones are, as she says, 'sticky,' but Boye and Susan Bates began applying a silicone finish about twenty or so years ago to their aluminum needles, and these are very nice to knit with.
JMHO here as a beginner knitter. I love the bamboo circulars, but have not used the straight ones yet. I bought a set of aluminum 10" straights and I am using acrylic yarn to practice and acrylic yarn on aluminum needles just slips off and it's very very hard to keep the stitches on. My hands cramp up trying to hold onto the yarn and keep it from slipping off the needles. So, it's interesting to me that you think they are "sticky." But perhaps a wool yarn would feel differently. I think they are incredibly slippery and cold in the hands. I am going to try with bamboo straights since I really like the circulars. Thanks for all your videos; they are very helpful. :D
I recently started crocheting and I love it! And, not long ago I decided I needed to learn how to knit as well. Finally...! I tried a couple of times and failed miserably... Having made a couple of mistakes buying crochet hooks I just went all in with the knitting needles. Got two sets: One straight nickel-plated and one wooden interchangeable. Oh my, do I love them!! My first project is a chunky cowl (which uses the provisional cast on. Had a lot of fun with that to begin with!) on the straight needles but I will change over to the interchangeables as it gets a bit heavier. And, as soon as I work up the courage, I will get some bamboo double pointed and try to make my first pair of socks. Oh, and thank you for making the video on tight knitting. I was having some serious issues knitting too tight and you helped me correct it… :)
I taught myself how to knit by watching youtube videos (like yours!) about 6 months ago. A lot of the people making the videos were using bamboo, so that's what I got too. I really do think they're perfect for a beginner. I had very few dropped stitches. Just last week I decided I'm ready to take my knitting to a new level and bought myself some Addis. I CAN'T WAIT for them to arrive in the mail; I have a pair of Knit Picks Harmony wood, and they're pretty nice too.
I absolutely disagree about the aluminum needles. I have many of them and I find them very smooth and easy to use without any sticking. The only aluminum needles that I don't like are the circulars because the yarn doesn't slide back up easily from the tubing onto the needles and mine are not marked so I have to keep track of what size they are. I also have used bamboo, which I like mostly for circular work. I recently bought a nickle plated circular, but I haven't had the chance to try it yet. I don't like the acrylic needles at all. I find them very sticky and difficult to work with.
I agree with what you say! I have a complete set of aluminum needles and I love them completely. But I do say that they are wonderful for beginning knitters who are on a budget because of their price and ease of working with. I do have a set of aluminum interchangeable circulars. I do agree that there are issues with getting the yarn to move back on the needles, but I always contribute it to my inexperience with them since I just started using them two months ago.
Guess it's time to add the Carbon fiber needles to the list. Bought the sock needle set and love them. To me its the best of both the nickle plated brass and wood together in one needle.
same here Krazyvideochick, I learned on Boye aluminum needles and they are very smooth and fast, not sticky at all. Only problem is that I end up knitting so fast I wear off the finish. also got knit picks starter set with nickle plated needles and they are very slick and similar to Boye aluminum needles. I find the plastic needles to stick and are not smooth. still have not tried the bamboo ones as yet.
Finding nickel plated brass needles in India is one big task. Not in one shop I have seen them. Most easily available needles are aluminum & they work ok enough. Maybe I'll try bamboo next.
I find that the aluminums are very slick for me (especially dps). My bamboo ones are much slicker, but I've only used dpn bamboo never straight bamboo.
I bought some needles that were on clearance at Michaels and I find I keep going back to them for everything. Now, I know why! thank you for this video. Those needles were so inexpensive! They are 29" circular Nickel Plated Brass called Velocity. I love those needles for everything!
Sorry to bother you but are you sure you got them from Michaels? I used to work there (and I just called my local Michaels) and they said they don't carry Susan Bates needles at all.
Sonia Guzman Huh, how weird. The only brick and mortar store I've ever seen velocity needles at is Joanns and even they've quit carrying them now. I wanted one to knit a hat and had to buy online and it's extremely hard to find any of their 16" sizes so I agree with you, if you see them you should snap them up! Btw if you like nickel plated needles and can't find more Susan Bates, you can buy interchangeable nickel plated needle sets which is cheaper in the long run than buying fixed circular needles like SB.
I know Michaels doesn't carry them anymore and I haven't seen them anywhere. I sold most of mine before I realized I loved them! Darn! I need small sizes. I have 6, 7, 8, 9, and 11 I believe. I would love a 2 and a five. all of mine have 29" cords.
Sonia Guzman You should be able to find them easily if you Google. I'm seeing them on Amazon, Etsy, ebay, just to name a few stores. The only annoying thing is they may not be as cheap and you'll have to pay shipping. Another alternative (if you don't want an interchangeable nickel plated set which is actually the best idea) is to buy Knitpicks's or Knitter's Pride fixed nickel plated circular needles which should be very similar to the Velocity needles.
Love your videos. They’re straightforward and full of useful information. I agree with using circular needles for most knitting. How do you safely straighten the circular needle cords? Also how do you store them to keep the uncoiled? Thanks.
High quality needles have cords that don't need any work. (Needles from big box stores usually have inexpensive cords that never straighten out, and eventually get brittle.) Brands like Knitter's Pride, Addi, Chiaogoo, Knit Picks, and Hiya Hiya are all high quality brands.
VeryPink Knits I’m using Knitter’s Pride Nova Platina. Love the actual needles but the cord is coiled and gets in the way. Some UA-cam videos suggest using hot water on the cord only, but I’m still concerned about ruining the cord.
You'll need to contact the needle manufacturer to be sure that your needles can handle this, but I know some people steam the cords or dip them into boiling water to straighten them out. I'd be cautious about this - you don't want to melt the cords! I don't have any personal experience with really twisty cords - sorry I can't be of more help.
good info thanx as usual; i am wondering why people's comments are all cut off? I tried minimizing my font to see if more would be included but things are cut off in mid sentence? i love reading the sharing and expertise of your viewers. I noticed this on many sites but particularly frequent on this posting???
Hmm...I'm not sure what to tell you. I'm seeing the full comments on this video and all other videos. When comments reach a certain length, sometimes you'll see a "Read More" link at the bottom of the comment to expand the rest of the comment. Beyond that, and your browser font size, I can't explain why you're seeing that.
thanx for your super efficient reply ... no there was no read more, just chopped off but now they all do say read more, so I am thinking it may be that my slow internet did not fully load while i was skimming down reading all the inputs; thanx for your gracious reply, love ALL your work, I can watch you all day!!! By the way is there anything you can add about the characteristics of the cording on circulars? I have fought with many that seems to jump around like a slinky; some people warm them in warm water? Can you say what are the best in your recommendation, if cost is not a consideration? I am thinking of getting rid of my needles and getting a top of the line set once and for all.
High quality needles have nice cords, poorly made needles usually have cords you have to fight with. Good brands that aren't too expensive are Knitter's Pride and Knit Picks. Either of those brands are worth your investment.
Hi Stacy, Thank you for this great video. I have a question on the circulars - I am a beginning knitter and have some circulars from the craft store so my question is: How do I get the cords to straighten out? Thank you!
You might want to contact the needle manufacturer (Facebook message is probably a good way to do that). But, in my experience, inexpensive needles often have unruly cords that never straighten out. There are good needles available at a good price - check out Knitter's Pride or Knit Picks needles. Addi also has really nice needles/cords, but a bit higher price.
Why so down on aluminum? I knit with them all the time and I like them. I find them to be the smoothest after nickel-brass type needles. Definitely better than wood, I can't pick up good speed with wooden needles, but I still use them because they feel nice and are really pretty. Wood is good to work with for the fluffy yarn-large size needle type projects.
Hi, Staci...I watched this video for some education on needle materials. I'd like to ask your opinion on the limited edition KnitPro Marblz coming out in October: do you think I should invest in this set as a beginner knitter? They are acrylic tips with the interchangeable cables. I'm looking at either the Marblz or the Symfonie set, and as you well know, the Symfonie are wood. I'll most likely be working in all natural yarns, so either is ok, right? Anyway, like a magpie, I was drawn to how pretty the Marblz are, but wonder if they're worth getting, lol...thanks in advance for your time reading this.
KaijuLady MsKaiju - I'm not familiar with the Marblz needles (at least not yet), but this video should help you choose. It is the first of a series of videos I did for Knitter's Pride (Knit Pro) to help you find the perfect needles for you: ua-cam.com/video/gLKF2C1vIs8/v-deo.html
VeryPink Knits Thank you very much for guiding me to your video series, I missed it, somehow...Christmas isn't too far away and Mr. Kaiju needs a hint, lol Anyway, thanks again.
I realize your comment is old and you've probably already decided or bought something but if I may say so, acrylic needles aren't the best. They're just too grippy and draggy and you have to force the yarn off them. FWIW, Knitpicks came out with an acrylics interchangeable set and I think within less than a year of their debut they got discontinued because no one liked them. Acrylics and plastics aren't desirable surfaces for most knitters but if you really want them, I'd go for the Denise needles (which aren't quite acrylic from what I've heard, more like a smoother plastic surface). I certainly wouldn't spend that much money on a set of acrylics - they're, what, over $100? - which look more like novelty and gift needles to me and not very practical. Just my .02, hope this helps.
Sorry to spam, forgot to add one more thing: if you *really* want to try a set of acrylic needles anyway, try the Knitter's Pride Trendz needles. They're far more affordable and that way if you realize you don't like acrylic needles, you wouldn't have wasted so much money buying a so-called limited edition set.
ilurvemv Thank you kindly for your thoughts on this: I've taken Staci's advice in the video she suggested above about getting a sampler set (acrylic, wood & metal). You're correct about the acrylic being way too grippy. And I found that, for now, the metal was too slippy! I adored the feel of the wood, so I'm hoping for a nice set of interchangeable wood needles for Christmas (fingers crossed). Thanks again!
I bought the cheap long aluminum straight needles just to do long tail tubular cast on. I use one size smaller than my 16" circulars to cast on knit one purl one. Then I turn the work, knit the knits and slip the purls with yarn in front, turn again and use the circular to slip the knits with yarn in back and purl the purls. Then I just join in the round and start ribbing. It's the only way I start hats now. I think the aluminum ones are pretty too. I keep all my straight needles in a Quaker Oats cylinder with cardboard dividers I made from cereal boxes.
Here is the link to my Learn to Knit Your First Scarf tutorial: verypink.com/2011/01/13/learn-to-knit-your-first-scarf/ In it, you use worsted weight yarn and size US 10.5 (6.5mm) needles, which is a good size for learning.
Going to the way back machine here Staci, but I'm starting out. Only been knitting a few months but already have a few different needles and types. I like the lack of slip on my bamboo circulars, but finding them slow to work up because they're sticky (was good when I was doing a pillar lace scarf though!). I'm looking at investing in some KP (they're KnitPro over this side of the globe) interchangeable to save myself a pile o' cash. I have some metal pony circulars for a hat which I vastly prefer to the bamboo. So would you suggest the metal even though I'm fairly new? Im just worried they'd be too slippery for a newb.
Before you buy an interchangeable set, you might want to buy one fixed set of needles to give them a try. The Knitter's Pride (Knit Pro) Platinas are very slippery, you might find a better balance for your tastes with their Dreamz wood needles. The Dreamz needles are still "fast", I use them myself all the time. So maybe buy a single size of Platinas and Dreams, see which you prefer.
hi Staci, my hubby just got me a brand new set of bamboo interchangeable circular needles and I wanted to know what is the best way to loosen up the cords a littlt they seem to be stuck in a stiff coil shape from having been in the package so long- also what is the best way to store the cords so they don't coil up again? thanks so much!
hello please i have a question, i accidentally ordered a 20 mm circular needle, what yarn to i use with it and what pattern will best suit this size of needle? Thanks.
I stared out with aluminum needles and I didn't have problems with them.then later in knitting I bought bamboo needles and the yarn kept sticking to the needles to much and it was hard to knit with them.
I love my bamboo dpns but I just got an interchangeable needle set (Boye) for Christmas and casted on 102 stitches and half way through the 2nd row, the needle untwisted off the cable and guess what....dropped stitches. It has a key that is supposed to be used to tighten the wire to the needle but even after watching your videos (and others on youtube), I can't figure out how the little key is supposed to tighten anything when it goes straight through and just spins loosely. Am I doing something wrong or is this set just garbage and needs to be returned to the store?
+Colleen VanOverbeek - I'm not familiar with Boye needles, but I show how to use the key to tighten the needle to the cord in all of my Knitter's Pride needle giveaway videos. Here is an example: ua-cam.com/video/Ihltp25vxKI/v-deo.html
Thank you I primarily knit with wood needles and always have a time getting gauge so someone suggested I knit with metal needles and maybe my gauge would be different. I don't see how that's possible if your knitting with the same size needles.
This video was shot a few years ago, before carbon fiber needles were available. Here is a video I did for Knitter's Pride, in which I talk about their Karbonz needles: ua-cam.com/video/gLKF2C1vIs8/v-deo.html
Some needles just have bad cords that don't store well, especially those from big box craft stores. The best thing to do is to gradually upgrade your needles...the good brands store easily and don't turn into a mess. Some brands to consider are Knitter's Pride, Knit Picks, Addi, and Kollage. There are others, usually sold at yarn shops.
aluminum i dont really like, im a new knitter and on a budget. i gotta try some new ones. i hope to get bamboo ones soon! to me i think double sided needles like like they can slip off the back........ hmmmmm so difficult....
My experience has been that many patterns give me the needle size but not the length for the circular needles. It was difficult for me to know when I was first starting out. I like your rule of thumb above though.
I have a video out called "Knitting Help - Substituting Yarns" that may help you. You can find it by searching my channel page. (Sorry, UA-cam won't let me give you a direct link here.)
If you see something that doesn't interest you - don't comment! The more you comment, the more the UA-cam algorithm assumes you are positively engaged with the content, and the more knitting videos it will suggest for you.
I have used every type of affordable needle available in Australia over 50 years of knitting! I thought that casein were the best for my arthritic fingers until I happened upon Addi Skacel bamboo circulars last year, in Norway, of all places.(I was on a long holiday, and hanging out for some knitting to do...) I was HOOKED!! (And spoiled- alpaca blend yarn and one Addi Skacel circular for a scarf cost A LOT!!) I am now planning to buy an interchangeable set of these needles as a gift to myself!! Fifteen years ago I had had to give up knitting because of the pain from fibromyalgia. I tried just once more (with the casein) after a break of ten years, and I was in love again with knitting. Circulars have allowed me to keep going, and the Addi Skacel bamboo circulars have made my knitting experience even better. I think I deserve them!!
Yeah, Norway is an awesome place to live as a knitter. It's a beloved hobby here and it's even socially acceptable to knit during meetings. I love it! The only thing I don't like in stores in Norway is that most types of yarn here are quite scruffy, I don't think I could wear clothes out of those, they are very harsh. But some yarns are soft and amazing.
Many years ago, I inherited my grandmother's knitting supplies which included two books for baby knits and her collection of knitting needles! THIS was my "silver and gold". She knit so much that her plastic needles, which she'd had since around 1940, were bent. At some point when I was using them, they broke! Since then, it's been an adventure learning about the different kinds of needles...I have now become a knitting needles aficionado (I didn't want to say snob ;-) Years ago, I gave away all my straights in favor of good quality circulars and have never looked back!! I rarely use double pointed needles because most of the circs work well with the "magic needle" (using a longish cable is useful). My BIG treat to myself was buying a Harmony set from Knit Picks!! LOVE them! A while ago, someone on Ravelry was giving away her large supply of Addi Turbos and I was the fortunate recipient. Investing in a good quality needles has made my knitting life such a joy and yes, it IS what I'd like to do nearly all day long!
Your videos are so clear and instructive, our own private knitting classes where we can pause, rewind, fast forward, thank you SO much!
I don't have a problem with aluminum needles. My only kvetch is the click clack sound they tend to make, but it's alright if you're alone.
I do also have bamboo needles which I like, but depending on the finish, some of them cause too much drag and the stitches wont slide across the needles very well at all. I was using a certain acrylic yarn and boy, that stuff definitely wouldn't slide at all on the bamboo. I had to start all over again on a set of aluminum needles and those are working much better for this yarn.
Today I just modified a new pair of bamboo needles. I'm using 40% wool blended with 60% acrylic and it was grabbing a little too much to my new bamboo needles. I sanded them down just a little bit with very very fine sand paper and I coated them with 2-3 layers of warm paraffin wax and buffed them smooth with a cotton terry cloth rag. My yarn is working easier on them now. :-)
I've had to sand and wax a set of bamboo crochet hooks some time ago too for the same reason. They were a little too rough on the yarn, now they work just fine.
I say away from acrylic needles and hooks, I don't like them at all.
To me it all depends on a person's skill level, the type of yarn you're using and what works for you and your budget.
I can see by the comments that others besides me are in favor of the aluminum needles so negatively spoken of in this video. I have some Boye needles (these are some of the ones she is talking about that sell in variety stores) that I've had for many years, and are slick. Some of the oldest ones are, as she says, 'sticky,' but Boye and Susan Bates began applying a silicone finish about twenty or so years ago to their aluminum needles, and these are very nice to knit with.
JMHO here as a beginner knitter. I love the bamboo circulars, but have not used the straight ones yet. I bought a set of aluminum 10" straights and I am using acrylic yarn to practice and acrylic yarn on aluminum needles just slips off and it's very very hard to keep the stitches on. My hands cramp up trying to hold onto the yarn and keep it from slipping off the needles. So, it's interesting to me that you think they are "sticky." But perhaps a wool yarn would feel differently. I think they are incredibly slippery and cold in the hands. I am going to try with bamboo straights since I really like the circulars. Thanks for all your videos; they are very helpful. :D
I recently started crocheting and I love it! And, not long ago I decided I needed to learn how to knit as well. Finally...! I tried a couple of times and failed miserably...
Having made a couple of mistakes buying crochet hooks I just went all in with the knitting needles. Got two sets: One straight nickel-plated and one wooden interchangeable. Oh my, do I love them!! My first project is a chunky cowl (which uses the provisional cast on. Had a lot of fun with that to begin with!) on the straight needles but I will change over to the interchangeables as it gets a bit heavier.
And, as soon as I work up the courage, I will get some bamboo double pointed and try to make my first pair of socks.
Oh, and thank you for making the video on tight knitting. I was having some serious issues knitting too tight and you helped me correct it… :)
I taught myself how to knit by watching youtube videos (like yours!) about 6 months ago. A lot of the people making the videos were using bamboo, so that's what I got too. I really do think they're perfect for a beginner. I had very few dropped stitches. Just last week I decided I'm ready to take my knitting to a new level and bought myself some Addis. I CAN'T WAIT for them to arrive in the mail; I have a pair of Knit Picks Harmony wood, and they're pretty nice too.
@TeenYarnie It's really a personal preference. I use both Addis and Knit Picks needles.
I absolutely disagree about the aluminum needles. I have many of them and I find them very smooth and easy to use without any sticking. The only aluminum needles that I don't like are the circulars because the yarn doesn't slide back up easily from the tubing onto the needles and mine are not marked so I have to keep track of what size they are.
I also have used bamboo, which I like mostly for circular work. I recently bought a nickle plated circular, but I haven't had the chance to try it yet. I don't like the acrylic needles at all. I find them very sticky and difficult to work with.
I agree with what you say! I have a complete set of aluminum needles and I love them completely. But I do say that they are wonderful for beginning knitters who are on a budget because of their price and ease of working with. I do have a set of aluminum interchangeable circulars. I do agree that there are issues with getting the yarn to move back on the needles, but I always contribute it to my inexperience with them since I just started using them two months ago.
Karen M. I was surprised to have aluminum neeflescalled sticky..I think theyatecpretty slick.
@patobejarano Those interchangeable needles are called Addi Clicks, and they're available from many retailers and online retailers.
Guess it's time to add the Carbon fiber needles to the list. Bought the sock needle set and love them. To me its the best of both the nickle plated brass and wood together in one needle.
I hate knitting with Bamboo.. but I love Bamboo DPN's.. They really keep those stitches in place...
same here Krazyvideochick, I learned on Boye aluminum needles and they are very smooth and fast, not sticky at all. Only problem is that I end up knitting so fast I wear off the finish. also got knit picks starter set with nickle plated needles and they are very slick and similar to Boye aluminum needles. I find the plastic needles to stick and are not smooth. still have not tried the bamboo ones as yet.
Finding nickel plated brass needles in India is one big task. Not in one shop I have seen them. Most easily available needles are aluminum & they work ok enough. Maybe I'll try bamboo next.
I've never had a problem with aluminum needles...I've actually had more problems with wood needles. I don't get why aluminum ones are so bad...
I find that the aluminums are very slick for me (especially dps). My bamboo ones are much slicker, but I've only used dpn bamboo never straight bamboo.
I bought some needles that were on clearance at Michaels and I find I keep going back to them for everything. Now, I know why! thank you for this video. Those needles were so inexpensive! They are 29" circular Nickel Plated Brass called Velocity. I love those needles for everything!
Sorry to bother you but are you sure you got them from Michaels? I used to work there (and I just called my local Michaels) and they said they don't carry Susan Bates needles at all.
I worked there for 6 years as the Manager in Pheonix Arizona. We had an entire wall of these needles. I wish I had bought them all!
Sonia Guzman
Huh, how weird. The only brick and mortar store I've ever seen velocity needles at is Joanns and even they've quit carrying them now. I wanted one to knit a hat and had to buy online and it's extremely hard to find any of their 16" sizes so I agree with you, if you see them you should snap them up!
Btw if you like nickel plated needles and can't find more Susan Bates, you can buy interchangeable nickel plated needle sets which is cheaper in the long run than buying fixed circular needles like SB.
I know Michaels doesn't carry them anymore and I haven't seen them anywhere. I sold most of mine before I realized I loved them! Darn! I need small sizes. I have 6, 7, 8, 9, and 11 I believe. I would love a 2 and a five. all of mine have 29" cords.
Sonia Guzman You should be able to find them easily if you Google. I'm seeing them on Amazon, Etsy, ebay, just to name a few stores. The only annoying thing is they may not be as cheap and you'll have to pay shipping. Another alternative (if you don't want an interchangeable nickel plated set which is actually the best idea) is to buy Knitpicks's or Knitter's Pride fixed nickel plated circular needles which should be very similar to the Velocity needles.
I wish I saw this before investing in my set. So far I love my wooden interchangeable needles
Love your videos. They’re straightforward and full of useful information. I agree with using circular needles for most knitting. How do you safely straighten the circular needle cords? Also how do you store them to keep the uncoiled? Thanks.
High quality needles have cords that don't need any work. (Needles from big box stores usually have inexpensive cords that never straighten out, and eventually get brittle.) Brands like Knitter's Pride, Addi, Chiaogoo, Knit Picks, and Hiya Hiya are all high quality brands.
VeryPink Knits I’m using Knitter’s Pride Nova Platina. Love the actual needles but the cord is coiled and gets in the way. Some UA-cam videos suggest using hot water on the cord only, but I’m still concerned about ruining the cord.
You'll need to contact the needle manufacturer to be sure that your needles can handle this, but I know some people steam the cords or dip them into boiling water to straighten them out. I'd be cautious about this - you don't want to melt the cords! I don't have any personal experience with really twisty cords - sorry I can't be of more help.
good info thanx as usual; i am wondering why people's comments are all cut off? I tried minimizing my font to see if more would be included but things are cut off in mid sentence? i love reading the sharing and expertise of your viewers. I noticed this on many sites but particularly frequent on this posting???
Hmm...I'm not sure what to tell you. I'm seeing the full comments on this video and all other videos. When comments reach a certain length, sometimes you'll see a "Read More" link at the bottom of the comment to expand the rest of the comment. Beyond that, and your browser font size, I can't explain why you're seeing that.
thanx for your super efficient reply ... no there was no read more, just chopped off but now they all do say read more, so I am thinking it may be that my slow internet did not fully load while i was skimming down reading all the inputs; thanx for your gracious reply, love ALL your work, I can watch you all day!!! By the way is there anything you can add about the characteristics of the cording on circulars? I have fought with many that seems to jump around like a slinky; some people warm them in warm water? Can you say what are the best in your recommendation, if cost is not a consideration? I am thinking of getting rid of my needles and getting a top of the line set once and for all.
High quality needles have nice cords, poorly made needles usually have cords you have to fight with. Good brands that aren't too expensive are Knitter's Pride and Knit Picks. Either of those brands are worth your investment.
Hi Stacy,
Thank you for this great video. I have a question on the circulars - I am a beginning knitter and have some circulars from the craft store so my question is: How do I get the cords to straighten out? Thank you!
You might want to contact the needle manufacturer (Facebook message is probably a good way to do that). But, in my experience, inexpensive needles often have unruly cords that never straighten out. There are good needles available at a good price - check out Knitter's Pride or Knit Picks needles. Addi also has really nice needles/cords, but a bit higher price.
check on youtube for video on straighten out knitting needles.
Why so down on aluminum? I knit with them all the time and I like them. I find them to be the smoothest after nickel-brass type needles. Definitely better than wood, I can't pick up good speed with wooden needles, but I still use them because they feel nice and are really pretty. Wood is good to work with for the fluffy yarn-large size needle type projects.
Hi, Staci...I watched this video for some education on needle materials. I'd like to ask your opinion on the limited edition KnitPro Marblz coming out in October: do you think I should invest in this set as a beginner knitter? They are acrylic tips with the interchangeable cables. I'm looking at either the Marblz or the Symfonie set, and as you well know, the Symfonie are wood. I'll most likely be working in all natural yarns, so either is ok, right? Anyway, like a magpie, I was drawn to how pretty the Marblz are, but wonder if they're worth getting, lol...thanks in advance for your time reading this.
KaijuLady MsKaiju - I'm not familiar with the Marblz needles (at least not yet), but this video should help you choose. It is the first of a series of videos I did for Knitter's Pride (Knit Pro) to help you find the perfect needles for you: ua-cam.com/video/gLKF2C1vIs8/v-deo.html
VeryPink Knits Thank you very much for guiding me to your video series, I missed it, somehow...Christmas isn't too far away and Mr. Kaiju needs a hint, lol Anyway, thanks again.
I realize your comment is old and you've probably already decided or bought something but if I may say so, acrylic needles aren't the best. They're just too grippy and draggy and you have to force the yarn off them. FWIW, Knitpicks came out with an acrylics interchangeable set and I think within less than a year of their debut they got discontinued because no one liked them.
Acrylics and plastics aren't desirable surfaces for most knitters but if you really want them, I'd go for the Denise needles (which aren't quite acrylic from what I've heard, more like a smoother plastic surface). I certainly wouldn't spend that much money on a set of acrylics - they're, what, over $100? - which look more like novelty and gift needles to me and not very practical. Just my .02, hope this helps.
Sorry to spam, forgot to add one more thing: if you *really* want to try a set of acrylic needles anyway, try the Knitter's Pride Trendz needles. They're far more affordable and that way if you realize you don't like acrylic needles, you wouldn't have wasted so much money buying a so-called limited edition set.
ilurvemv Thank you kindly for your thoughts on this: I've taken Staci's advice in the video she suggested above about getting a sampler set (acrylic, wood & metal). You're correct about the acrylic being way too grippy. And I found that, for now, the metal was too slippy! I adored the feel of the wood, so I'm hoping for a nice set of interchangeable wood needles for Christmas (fingers crossed). Thanks again!
Could you do a video on yarn characteristics, please?
I bought the cheap long aluminum straight needles just to do long tail tubular cast on. I use one size smaller than my 16" circulars to cast on knit one purl one. Then I turn the work, knit the knits and slip the purls with yarn in front, turn again and use the circular to slip the knits with yarn in back and purl the purls. Then I just join in the round and start ribbing. It's the only way I start hats now. I think the aluminum ones are pretty too. I keep all my straight needles in a Quaker Oats cylinder with cardboard dividers I made from cereal boxes.
Hi. I love your videos. I'm just about to teach myself to knit. What size and kind would you recommend for a starters to knitting?
Here is the link to my Learn to Knit Your First Scarf tutorial: verypink.com/2011/01/13/learn-to-knit-your-first-scarf/
In it, you use worsted weight yarn and size US 10.5 (6.5mm) needles, which is a good size for learning.
Going to the way back machine here Staci, but I'm starting out. Only been knitting a few months but already have a few different needles and types. I like the lack of slip on my bamboo circulars, but finding them slow to work up because they're sticky (was good when I was doing a pillar lace scarf though!). I'm looking at investing in some KP (they're KnitPro over this side of the globe) interchangeable to save myself a pile o' cash. I have some metal pony circulars for a hat which I vastly prefer to the bamboo. So would you suggest the metal even though I'm fairly new? Im just worried they'd be too slippery for a newb.
Before you buy an interchangeable set, you might want to buy one fixed set of needles to give them a try. The Knitter's Pride (Knit Pro) Platinas are very slippery, you might find a better balance for your tastes with their Dreamz wood needles. The Dreamz needles are still "fast", I use them myself all the time. So maybe buy a single size of Platinas and Dreams, see which you prefer.
Thanks a mil, I've learned so much from you already. Enjoy the New Years wine hangover. 😉
hi Staci, my hubby just got me a brand new set of bamboo interchangeable circular needles and I wanted to know what is the best way to loosen up the cords a littlt they seem to be stuck in a stiff coil shape from having been in the package so long- also what is the best way to store the cords so they don't coil up again? thanks so much!
Where did you buy those interchangeable circular needles? I would love to have them. Thank you.
Sometimes aluminum needles are all people who love to knit can afford. I have never had a problem with kntting catching on them or sliding around.
hello please i have a question, i accidentally ordered a 20 mm circular needle, what yarn to i use with it and what pattern will best suit this size of needle?
Thanks.
I stared out with aluminum needles and I didn't have problems with them.then later in knitting I bought bamboo needles and the yarn kept sticking to the needles to much and it was hard to knit with them.
Thx Staci, I think I know what I'm doing wrong.
I love my bamboo dpns but I just got an interchangeable needle set (Boye) for Christmas and casted on 102 stitches and half way through the 2nd row, the needle untwisted off the cable and guess what....dropped stitches. It has a key that is supposed to be used to tighten the wire to the needle but even after watching your videos (and others on youtube), I can't figure out how the little key is supposed to tighten anything when it goes straight through and just spins loosely. Am I doing something wrong or is this set just garbage and needs to be returned to the store?
+Colleen VanOverbeek - I'm not familiar with Boye needles, but I show how to use the key to tighten the needle to the cord in all of my Knitter's Pride needle giveaway videos. Here is an example: ua-cam.com/video/Ihltp25vxKI/v-deo.html
+KrazyVideoChick thanks! once I watched Staci's video again, I haven't had a problem.
Hi Stacey, Is gauge affected by the type of needles you use i.e. Wood or metal needles.
claudine gardner - yes, the material of the needle can affect your gauge. Always best to knit a swatch to check!
Huh... I like aluminum & do not like acrylic... I feel like the acrylic is grabby to me. LOVE those addi though :)
Thank you I primarily knit with wood needles and always have a time getting gauge so someone suggested I knit with metal needles and maybe my gauge would be different. I don't see how that's possible if your knitting with the same size needles.
What about carbon fiber needles? What properties do they have and when would you use them?
This video was shot a few years ago, before carbon fiber needles were available. Here is a video I did for Knitter's Pride, in which I talk about their Karbonz needles: ua-cam.com/video/gLKF2C1vIs8/v-deo.html
What about Ergonomic German needles? Nobody is talking about this and they got first price 2017
How would you recommend storing circular needles so they don't turn into a tangled mess?
Some needles just have bad cords that don't store well, especially those from big box craft stores. The best thing to do is to gradually upgrade your needles...the good brands store easily and don't turn into a mess. Some brands to consider are Knitter's Pride, Knit Picks, Addi, and Kollage. There are others, usually sold at yarn shops.
aluminum i dont really like, im a new knitter and on a budget. i gotta try some new ones. i hope to get bamboo ones soon! to me i think double sided needles like like they can slip off the back........ hmmmmm so difficult....
How can I determine the correct cord length for my projects when using circular needles?
+Bobbie Greiner - the pattern should tell you the length to use. Usually 16" for caps, 24" for kids' sweaters, 24" or 32" for adult sweaters.
My experience has been that many patterns give me the needle size but not the length for the circular needles. It was difficult for me to know when I was first starting out. I like your rule of thumb above though.
I have a video out called "Knitting Help - Substituting Yarns" that may help you. You can find it by searching my channel page. (Sorry, UA-cam won't let me give you a direct link here.)
Which interchangeable needles do you have in this video?
Those are Addi Clicks.
ALLERGY TO NICKLE ? does the nickel plated circs give people allergic to nickle in earrings a rash ?
I've heard of irritation. Try looking into steel needles
yes hiya makes stainless steel i like them but hard to find in a set of interchangabls . they dont have clicks join either
could you do a yarn characteristics?
~Taylor
Taylor Bryan - this video should help you: ua-cam.com/video/-gyOT8DAMc0/v-deo.html
Why do I get these KNITTING videos popping up at every single video I watch in featured ;_;?
If you see something that doesn't interest you - don't comment! The more you comment, the more the UA-cam algorithm assumes you are positively engaged with the content, and the more knitting videos it will suggest for you.
VeryPink Knits I can't resist these videos anymore! They have been popping up for a month now ;_;... I HAVE TO START KNITTING
There you go - that's a great attitude! I'm always here to help if you have questions on any of my videos.