I was hit by a car at age 19. My hands blocked the head on dammage and I survived. I was going to make wigs for a living and found I could no longer hold a pencil. Well life went on, I made due and forgot all about crochet and knitting as an option. Came the end of covid, about 19 years later and I realized I was plotzing to do it again. And I did. I have worked on every method of alleviating pain and am still experimenting. But each method made a big difference and was a learning process. Also if It's not working the first time, I go back to it later. The type of knitting needles I use make a huge difference. So even though I have lovely HiyaHiya's, the hurt way too much and I find myself using the square ones. Because they hurt less and are a totally irritating model re joins... But, make lemonade 🍋. Right? I have tried a few types, each one has it's uses. But the main thing is, I keep at it and congratulate myself for succeeding so long after it should be game over. Practically speaking, with the right needles, i have found the pain went down 90%-95%. That's really significant ! Happy hunting everyone. Good luck!
Bravo to you! Started knitting recently; I’ve only just finished a cowl, and I already have significant pain and numbness recur in my thumb and forearm. That I didn’t have before. Well, I know I’m clutching tightly and doing things wrongly, and I’m a little bit older in age, so I hope that changing my style helps. But I was starting to fear I wouldn’t be able to pursue this hobby I’m loving so much! So your story is super inspirational for me. I will keep trying Things until I can do it! Thank you.
@@raeleohana8797 I combined Continental style with Irish/cottage knitting and it fixes those issues. You basically make the hand feeding the yarn do the work. Hold the right in whatever way is most comfortable and let it rest wherever takes the weight off. Then use the left to do all the moving. It helps to work close to the needle tips. On the right just use one finger to keep the loops from being pulled of. Lightly. And release when stitches buildup and need to move along every so often. Least painful for me, and faster without transferring which hand gets hurt. I'm able to knit way more in the project and length of time. Do your research. Eventually something will click for what's best for you. 💕
I have round, metal needles from a thrift store, I have been meaning to replace. Taking care of our hands is important. Thanks for doing so much research for us!
I always appreciate when expert knitters and crocheters provide video reviews like this - thank you! I have ergonomic hooks but not needles. I switch from knit to crochet to avoid pain in my hands and wrists.
I have arthritis and I switched from crochet to knitting because it was easier on my hands. I also bought some Knit Picks Foursquare Majestic Options Interchangeables. They have the 4 flat sides, but the corners have been rounded to make them more comfortable. They made a huge difference. And Norman ALWAYS does a spectacular job on his videos.
No matter what they say, those Addi novel needles' texture, does less message than they do helping a Beginner knitter get a feel for working with something between their fingers and using their stix. I am arthritic and used to be a hairdresser, and while I am used to employing all of my fingers to do all things hair, I also employ them to do all things knitting, but I gotta say, I used to have trouble working my needles while the yarn was between me and my stix. My stitches kept falling off both of them! I certainly thank Addi for helping me learn a new skill... It was killing my hands to have able to work the needles. I would have to try and grip so tight or things would just slip. They eliminate that problem for me. Also, when I would try to knit and my hands were swollen, it was very hard...VERY hard to do. These square textured needles help so much! Thank you for introducing me to them on this very video!
I use bamboo needles because it keeps me from going too fast. I have an anxiety disorder and by going slower i can enjoy my knitting. Thanks Norman for the info.
You really have me thinking. I have many needles and sizes that I got mostly from thrift shops, so they are all odds and ends. I knit mostly with size 2mm to 3.5mm except for an occasional project such as my profile pic. I do not like wood or plastic needles. I knit very tightly. I’d like to have a nice set. I often knit in the car, waiting rooms, etc. I’m considering double pointed because of the shorter lengths. I do not like interchangeables because of the step between needle/connection/wire. Your videos are helpful. Thank you.
Another great video. You give such through and honest feedback while remaining unbiased. Your recommendations take into account the variations in knitting styles and comfort preferences, making it easy for us to make the personal decision of what products are worth trying and which are probably a pass. Thank you for this awesome review!!
☕ Support my work and become a patron: www.patreon.com/nimbleneedlez 🧑🎓Free knitting school: nimble-needles.com/learn-to-knit-for-beginners/ 🧶 My knitting tools: nimble-needles.com/wool-and-tools/my-knitting-toolkit-essential-items-i-need-for-every-project/ 👕 My patterns: nimble-needles.com/free-knitting-patterns/ 📸 Instagram: instagram.com/nimbleneedlez/ And feel free to comment any time if you have a question. No need to be shy! :)
I have the prym ergonomics in size 2,5 mm for sock knitting with magic loop. At first I bought them so I could board a plane with them but then I really fell in love with them. I've used so many brands and types of needles already but these are my first ergonomics and just so incredibly comfortable to knit with, they've become my go to needles for socks right now. I look forward to getting more of them, or maybe trying different types of ergonomic needles 🥰
Truly love that knitting offers a variety of tools for an infinite number of knitters! Very similar to the preference of both material and construction of crochet hooks. I enjoy specific brands of rosewood, bamboo, metal and plastic in both knitting needles and crochet hooks. Each tool works for yarns made from certain materials. I often learn from each one, sometimes nodding in agreement, other times I notice differences. I truly enjoy your tutorials and I am grateful for the knowledge you provide. Thank you, Norman!
Hello, I am so thankful to you. I think that I am learning from the very best. MASTER KNITTER AND INSTRUCTOR.🥰 I Just bought PRYM. you were not kidding when you made me aware that making cables is hard😳 to make. That's for sure. I was fighting with the knitting needles, twisting bending, it was just awful. I thought that I would use two pairs of double pointed knitting needles that are the same size as my straight knitting needles and slip 3 on the double-pointed knitting needle and then hold in front then knit three on my straight needle and then get my other double-point needle I think these needles are the DEVIL'S WEAPONS😮😮. THEN I KNIT 3 on the double-point knitting needle and then slip those stitches on my straight knitting needles, It works out well. I think the Blue Marking on the knitting needle is to make the knitter aware of the size of the knitting needle. I am determined to become a good knitter. I have not knitted in 30 years I am a big 63. I am surely getting a lot of practice. I donate all that I crochet and knit to a thrift store and the profits benefit the American Cancer Society in the United States Of America. You are a blessing. God bless you in all that you do. 😍🥰❤️😘🙋🏽☕🇵🇷🇺🇲
Thanks for your review. I just got a set of Knitter’s Pride Cubics in wood…mostly because they were a beautiful purple set 😊. I’ve just started a project using the 4.5mm needles. They felt weird at first, but I’m getting used to them and am liking them. I do agree that the taper could be longer and they are not the fastest needles, but I’ve had surgery on by dominate thumb, so I’m having issues controlling stitches from slipping off of my metal Chaiagoos…so these are helping with that. I love your reviews and will be looking at the metal Cubics when my thumb has healed. Thanks again!!
Thanks so much. I'm new to knitting, and only know how to crochet, and Tunisian crochet. I do have arthritis and some tendon issues, but do well with ergonomic hooks. I figured I'd do my research RE needles before I buy anything. I can learn stitches and techniques with my mom's old knitting needles, but I want to have the most comfortable ones as I get into making projects. I really appreciate your video, while I gather some additional knowledge. 👍
I bought a Prim set of straight needles a year or so ago, but I really don’t like the tips, I need a very sharp tip for the way I knit. My ChiaGoo lace tips are my go-to.
@@NimbleNeedles Thanks so much. I know VERY little re needles, so I appreciate any input from anyone. I don't know what 'continental' means, but I will look it up. Sounds like 'continental + ergonomic' is a specific type. I'll see what I find out! 🙂 EDIT: Just discovered 'Continental' is a 'style' of knitting. 👍
@@kaptainskarlett9927 Thanks so much for your input! I am newer than new to this but I will say, after just experimenting with my mom's needles....I do appreciate sharper tips - even though I don't anticipate making lace projects. It's going to be trial and error...and I always find it quite easy to proclaim what I don't like vs exactly what I do!! 🤭
@@NimbleNeedles Just discovered 'Continental' is a 'style' of knitting & you have a video on it for beginners. I really like the idea of not learning the shortcuts that I'll have to unlearn!! My kind of teaching/ learning!! Thanks!
Thank you for a great video! I really enjoy watching your reviews because they're so exhaustive and in-depth ❤ That said, let me throw in my three cents too 😉 I own several Addi Novel fixed circulars but not because of how ergonomic they are but because I needed smaller-sized needles for knitting thin slippery yarns such as microfiber etc. - and I ended up loving them! I don't trust wood or plastic for under 3 mm needles and while Carbonz had also been an option, I decided on Addi Novel because of their unique shape. The bumps help to stop the yarn from slipping off and at the same time, the needles are perfectly smooth so the knitting is fast anyway.
I have the addi fixed circulars in sizes for socks, and I love using them for socks. You are right the taper is longer and much more comfortable for me than a shorter taper. One thing I find is that when doing lifted increases or decreases the slight indent shaping on the needles sometimes helps to either make space to insert the right hand needle or to hold a stitch back out of your way. This is maybe very small of an effect that isn’t always noticeable. I do get a looser gauge than with a standard round fixed circular of the same size. However in socks since I am making them with a slight negative ease, the increase is not so much that I need to change size or stitch count. However on larger needles, say 3.5 or 4 mm, I think the gauge difference is more noticeable, so just take care in searching.
Thanks for your program it was very helpful. Your reviews help me make great choices for buying needles and yarn. Thank you for this great review I appreciate all your help!
I love my Addi needles. Then i got the Addi Novel needles and find myself very reluctant to go back to my original Addi needles. It seems like i'm able to knit much faster with the Novels. I've had the Prym ergonomics for a long time but have never used them because I love the Addi needles so much.
Thank you for such an interesting and enlightening video. I must admit that as only an occasional knitter it has never previously occurred to me that there is a reason for the different kinds of needles out there! I’d just kinda assumed that it was just because some people prefer one kind to another, now I know that there’s much more to it than that. As a person with arthritic hands I now feel much better equipped to select needles best suited for my hands and my style of knitting. Thank you Norman, you are such an inspiration to me.
There are also hexagonal needles! They are only from a couple of small companies, as far as I know. I personally love them. Great in between a full round and a square.
0:27 Norman, good morning! I own a set of Kollage interchangeables. They are very nice to knit with. They come with two sets of cables in 3 lengths, both plastic. One set rigid, one set memory free on swivel connectors. They do snag a little at the connection point and can be on the noisier side. However, I do like that the company employs a lot of disabled people to produce these sets. Tips are blunt, so not the best for lace, but very fast.
I have been watching the way you hold your yarn, and how you use your needle to pull the yarn through. I normally dont use my left hand for anything, but holding the needle, and have my right hand wrap the yarn around the needle. I have just spent a few minutes practicing the way you knit. It's a lot less twisting on the wrists, and im happy i gave it a go ❤
@@NimbleNeedlesI think I will because I’m just learning and my hands and wrists hurt so much! I’m a crocheter and I know something is up with my wrists right now. Need to see my osteopath again.
Thank you so much for your in depth information on finger and needle contact. You reviews are the best! I’ve heard that Addi Rocket 2 squared is another one. Is this an upgrade on their Novel? Has this been reviewed yet?
I just love your thoughtful, informative, contemplative, demonstrative videos. Thoroughly researched, well presented and organized. Well done and thank you.
Thanks for the great information. I love my Addis. I have the standard Rocket lace and short Rocket lace by Addi. I will keep the Novel needles in mind if I develop any hand issues. I also have HiyaHiya sharps, but I keep returning to the Addis.
Another great video, Norman. I think I must be the most insensitive knitter in the universe. . . not as a person but in my hands. I've used all the needles in all your needle review videos and lots of others. Except for slight changes in gauge among them and that wood are generally slower than metal, my hands feel nearly no difference among them. Nonetheless I am drawn to buying at least one pair of every new needle that comes on the market. I have not, however, reverted to knitting with straight sticks since converting to circulars twenty-five years ago--just too cumbersome and too dangerous as the sticks fly out and hit the person sitting next to me especially on airplanes.😱
Interesting! You always do excellent reviews. I've wondered about what gauge changes would occur with these. Luckily I don't have hand issues (yet), so I'm happy with my chiagoo needles. I often wonder what my mother would think about all the innovations in knitting tools these days.
heh...well..i dunno...but I for one am always thrilled to see something new. Sometimes it's not great..okay..but without trying there can never be improvement!
@NimbleNeedles I think she'd be surprised but would try them all! I remember her trying circulars for the first time and raving about how wonderful they were lol
I prefer a circular (knit English style). I’m trying knit a baby sweater. Pattern calls for a 3 or 4 US circular needle but the length is what I need to know. I started with a 9 inch and then changed to a 24 inch. I don’ t like doing magic loop. Is there a better way?
well, for a baby sweater, you might want to toy around with using one super short needle on the left or right side (whatever you feel works better for you). Chiaogoo, for example, as mini needles. That way, you can get away with a smaller diamter without it being a struggle. But other than that, i should probably record a video on knitting in the round with circulars WITHOUT magic loop.
Just fyi if you have sensitive skin prym can leave a skin rash! I emailed them and said they did have evidence of this but it wasn’t common. My skin really didn’t the coating of the needles!
Norman, thank you for this video! It had so many useful facts. You helped me decide what type of ergonomic to buy and I love them! One question, have you ever heard of Micron needles? They 14:11 are being sold on EBay from Ukraine. I can’t find any information about them except what the seller tells me. Do you know anything about them? Have you ever used them? What do you think of them? I’d appreciate anything you could tell me. Thank you so much, Marjorie
I’ve really come to love your videos 🫶 You give me the up-to-date chit chat while I knit, crochet, sew or other craft and I enjoy your accent and cadence immensely 🤗 **edit Ooo… you have a Lamy Allstar! 🥵
Thank you so much, Norman! As always you have provided such clear information. I would call myself an advanced beginner knitter, and I have arthritis in my thumb joints. I recently completed my first sweater and I used the Prym ergonomic needles. I used a smaller size so they were round, not triangular. I really like those little hook tips! It seems to me that they save some very slight muscle movements; it’s easier to pick up and keep the stitches on the tip of the needle. It’s very subtle, but I think it’s real. I did use them for magic loop on the sleeves, it worked but I don’t have anything to compare it to as it was my first time knitting in the round in a small circumference. I would agree that the stitches do not flow easily across the needles, and it slowed me down. Also, the sizing is a bit confusing as they apparently come sized both as mm and US sizes (there is no US 2 1/2). However I liked those hook tips so much that I will use them again, as I really think they helped my thumbs.
I am treating myself to my most used size with worsted weight yarn (4.5 mm/7) in the addi fixed circular novel. I have arthritis quite badly and the best thing I can do is switch crafts and or stitch patterns and most importantly, give myself brief rest periods. Several years ago I made my hands so bad I had to give up knitting and crochet, but now that I rest and change my hand's movements pretty often I am contentedly knitting and crocheting again. As always, Thank you Norman for your detailed analysis.
Really learn a lot from you. How do you knit sweater sleeves that have stitches on the each side of the seam and sometimes on the neck seam - you see it in cashmere sweaters, etc. I would send a picture but don't know how to on this feed. Do you have a post for this? Thank you so much!
Love your videos, Norman. Thorough and every possible detail covered in good detail. In addition to the readily available needles you covered, if one is willing to invest a bit more money, one can also go with Indian Lakes Artisans. Their needles are hexagonal, like wooden pencils in our school days. They are available as straights, DPNs, interchangeable, fixed circulars, and jump needles. They use a variety of hardwoods, and are customizable as to length of needles and cables. I got a few several years ago, and the are wonderful. Not cheap, but for me, it was worth the investment
What have you done! I just checked them out! I'm in love ❤ but I wonder if one of my kids would accidentally sharpen such a needle😂😢!. Also I'll shout out Knit Picks makes a square line too.
I have tried a Kolage Square needle size 4.5 mm circular and found that after only a few stitches, it digs into my fingers where the sharp edge of the square rests. It also makes a very noticeable scraping sound.
Great video! I love the Prym ergonomic needles I use my index finger to guide the tip of the right needle. And the ergonomic tips are easy on the finger tips. I knit both continental and flick method. The joins could be a bit better, I agree.
I have always wanted to try the Prym needles but was put off a little by the end "drumstick" look; looked like a gimmick. I will buy one to see if they work for me. Thank you for doing this review! Much appreciated.
Thanks for intensive review. Needles are personal preference. I tried Prym and Novel, but honestly prefer round needles from Knit (Carbon) and lace needles from Chiagoo. I use the Crazy Trio and DPNs for hats and socks, depending on Pattern. Most important is to rest and not spend hours……. when knitting and crocheting.❤
Yeah, I mean I hope it kinda showed through in the video that my personal preference is neither of them. Then again, I am not 100% the target audience either 😅😁
Thanks so much for this informative video. I have started learning to knit after doing crochet, and the basic needles I got are so painful to use with inflammatory arthritis. Will be trying a few of these different types!
Nice Lamy pen! 😀 Also appreciate the information on ergonomic needles. I use an ergonomic keyboard exclusively due to having had tendinitis in my wrist years ago from using a straight (standard) keyboard, which forces the arms and wrists into an unnatural position. Now that I've taken up knitting (after decades as a crocheter), I'm curious to try ergonomic knitting needles ... though I'm already addicted to my set of Chiaogoo's. 😊 Being new to knitting, I'm trying *not* to pick up bad habits like pushing the left needle with the right index finger, and instead trying to learn the right way to knit without pain so I can continue to enjoy knitting for many years to come.
I will try the Addi novel. But I have read others saying the same, you hit them in a strange way. But I am learning lever knitting after 60 years of Norwegian knitting. Which gives me pain between my shoulders now. But thar kind of knitting is much faster. Now I am just happy to be able to knit again. I think the addi novel will be good for lever, as I have a problem with the stiches staying too close to the tip. I am thinking, maybe the stiches stay more down on the Addi. And I would think, a long tip is good for lever. Though I have just started doing lever. I will always buy fixed.
I don´t have any handicap nor pain in hands but I love Prym ergonomic needles and their "olive" tips, it is so easy to knit with them and they feel as light as a feather in hands - but won´t buy them anymore - the plastic needles have cracked several times in my hands and the cords have torn off - I realized I needed the swivel cords to prevent this so I have purchased KnitPro Mindful and they work for me well. Greetings from the Czech Rep. to gorgeous Wien!
Whenever I am dealing with yarn that splits, I add more twist and no more splits! Easy! I have played around with many ways to do this they're all kind of silly and kind of fun but they get the job done and then I can go back to my knitting... Or crochet... or Tunisian. It's kind of a welcome break, really. If anybody wants to know, hit me up....
Im a huge fan of the prym ergonomics! They lend themselves really well to continental knitting because of the little ball tips, the plastic is beautifully light, and the coated steel cable is the best I've ever tried, especially when doing a traveling magic loop. The spun steel curls up into a loop really well. They also have that dark blue rubber part where they connect to the wire, which reduces snagging when working a smaller project. I wish they came in shorter needle lengths though, they are quite long for circulars.
What serendipity! I’ve been road testing the kollage square needles [thrift store deep discount] and they are remarkable. No finger or wrist pain. Yes I do have arthritis, but even the metal was warm and it’s the softest cable I’ve ever come across. Addi Novel for socks are my next investment. Thank you for your advice and research! A big help in our decision making.
Norman, This video has reached me at the perfect time! I just stumbled upon the ergonomic needles and wondered about them. You've answered ALL the questions that were popping up in my mind about these "new to me" needles. As per the usual, Norman, you have cleared away the questions with your thuro investigation and beautifully filmed video. Thank you so very much for your time and attention given to this subject. I found this video extremely helpful and I appreciate you and your opinions above all others. 💜✌️🧶
I have not tried most of those. I love Prym needles.,the small ones. The bigger needles feel weird. I love your comparisons. You are honest and think of everything. I have an addi. Have to be careful of points. Ouch!
Thank you for your in depth look at these needles, it's just what I was looking for! I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis a couple years ago and haven't felt like knitting again until now. I will be trying a pair of all of these plus I found a maker of hexagonal needles too.
If only Prym would dump those tips I think they might rival Chia Goo. Oops, obviously some knitters love those damn nubbins, so…if Prym would bring out a sharp tip range. Or even a carbon fibre, sharp tip, metal cable range…smelling salts needed
yeah...i mean...i don't think their needles hold much for advanced knitters so I too wonder why they don't add more needles to their product catalogue. would be cool.
Thank you for the in depth video. I have a question: once the size printed on the needle rubs off, how can you check? I imagine none of the normal gauge checker work with these needles
that is actually very good question. Well, i believe there are special needle gauges for the square ones but that's about it. So, i dunno...lol...good question!
Another brand recommended to me (but I haven’t tried, as they are expensive) are hexagonal needles made by Indian Lake Artisans. I don’t know if they are available outside of the US. They would be more “round” than the squares.
i recently ordered the prym needles as I have wrist pain . Previously i used the knitters pride square shaped needles with good results but wanted some alternatives. I am also a tight knitter and the square needles changed my gage but it was an easy fix just changing the needle size to get the correct gage. Knit picks also has wooden square needled with a longer point. I never saw the addie square needles before I will look out for the fixed needles and try them as I do have wrist pain issues. and I love my knitting.
How are you enjoying the prym needles? Wrist pain is my most persistent irritation when knitting. I need to practice different technique but I'm also interested in these ergonomic needles.
They have helped as I can knit longer with them. When nor knitting do use a brace to give myself support and rest the tendons. It is a matter of trial and error. The length of the needle tip and the size of your hands, how tightly you hold the needles etc. IAs I stated originally I have different shape needles that i use but overall I like the Prym needles both Knit and crochet hooks. @@uschilou
Great review, thanks! I do have some wrist and joint pain in my right hand and I do find the square needles help my grip and allow me to knit with less trouble. My main needles are another square U.S. brand: Knit Picks. I use their Foursquare wood needles and I find them to be much nicer than the Knitter's Pride version. The tips are pretty sharp, they have a longer taper, and the join to the metal socket is smoother. Also the wood is more polished or has more of a coating so they are pretty slick for wood needles. They work with all the Knitter's Pride cables and accessories too. I also have the Addi Novel interchangeables and a bunch of fixed Addi Rocket Squared in the smaller sizes (for socks) for when I want a metal needle for certain types of yarn. I like them, but I most often use the Knit Picks unless I'm knitting socks. I haven't tried the Prym ergonomic needles, though I have been curious about those tips. I love their crochet hooks.
Thanks for sharing, the Knit Picks Foursquare wood needles look perfect for me and my arthritis. Would have gone with the Knitter's Pride cubics but was apprehensive of the short needle tip.
Thank you for this comprehensive and true review. I love the idea of just buying a pair of each and trrying them, I'll do that if I get pain knitting, which is happily not the case now.
Awesome video Norman. I would love it if you would do a video on accessories, your likes and dislikes. It’s amazing what is out there on the market and I know everyone has their favourites but not everyone actually knows the advantages and disadvantages that come with them. Just a thought 😊. By the way I just subscribed to your channel, thanks for all your helpful videos.
I am so confused about the "best needles" I can say that we need to be careful using "cheap" needles. I finished a few baby blankets that were knitted on 2mm silvery metal double pointed. The lady who knitted the pieces is very picky about her work and tries to keep it clean. The blankets were white but they were greyish stained. I could not figure out why, at first. Then I realized that the metal was tarnishing the yarn. It was so hard to get clean. I used Oxy and other products without a complete success. It was backbreaking to get this tarnish off. It looked like the cloth you use to clean/polish silver or brass, etc. I did get it acceptable but not perfect. The other issue is that this lady knits extremely tightly. The combination of tight knitting, sweaty hands and cheap 2mm needles gave a less than desirable finished project.
The major effects on pain in knitting will be in hand position and tensioning of yarn etc. fixing that is more work than buying gimmicky needles like the plastic ones you showed. It’s easy to spend money on a new toy, but likely won’t result in much effect of your hands have the wrong habits. My addi rocket squared needles are no better or worse than my standard chiaogoo needles. In my flicking style, my hands are both in neutral position and fir the most part, im touching the needles through the yarn, do my fingers basically don’t touch the metal anyhow. The main pain-inducer for me is any friction moving my stitches forward, so I am really sensitive to the way anything impedes that. Plus, occasionally my hiya hiya flyers start to make a hole in a fingertip if I’m spending too much time doing socks at small gauge.
The friction that you are feeling on the interchangeable Addis might be leftover metal polish. Wiping them down with some rubbing alcohol and a cloth or paper towel will remove it. It's something that can happen with any metal needle.
@@NimbleNeedlesHi Norman, when I purchased the square Chiagoo set I was told it was good for stimulating the finger's I trust this Seller an old time store for me, as I'm a diabetic and sometimes my finger's numb up it's very difficult for me to knit, until I tried the square Chiagoo set which works wonders for me, it might not say it, or might not have been designed for it, but believe me it works. Love your work. Cheers Sonia
First I have to say I love ❤your videos. You have taught me how to be a much better knitter. The only request I have is if you could help with the best way to finish necks on small sweaters. Should I use a round needle or a set of double ended needles.
Hey, I hope all is good with you. I have both the wooden and metal Cubics needles and I do love them apart from one major issue the metal ones have. Over time their coating is scraped off making the needles impossible to use. The yarn will get caught on the scrapes and it feels terrible to knit with. One solution I came up with was to use one wooden and one metal needle together. The rubbing of the wooden and metal needles does not cause the coating to get damaged. I knit with the stitches from the metal needle (because its faster to push stitches on to) which I then knit on to the wooden needle. One final note about the wooden cubics is that the ends can snap off really easily on the bottom of the smaller mm needles, so take care not to tighten them too tightly when attaching the cable.
yeah, that's the problem of all coated needles. Do consider, the coating is just a couple of atoms thick. I still prefer coated needles over stainelss steel, etc. sure, they might not last that long..but while they last the ride is so much smoother!
Heh. Glad to hear that. My Videos are always published every second Sunday 16:30 cet. (Tho I might slow down a bit during summer break..currently debating that)
I'm so glad I found you! Very thoughtful observations on knitting are so appreciated. Fun Fact: In July 2023, My daughter marched through the streets of Vienna with her university's marching band.
Danke für dieses informative Video. Ich stricke momentan nur mehr und hab (wie auch bei den Häkelnadeln) mir von allen Marken und Formen jeweils ein paar bestellt, so nach und nach. Nur Prym hatte ich nicht, denn die kamen mir komisch vor. Auch wegen den unterschiedlichen "Tropfen" vorne und den Unterschieden, die du gezeigt hast. Ich find das komisch. Ich hab so echt viel probiert und weiss nun, welche Nadeln für mich die passenden sind. Ich probier aber zwischendurch immer wieder die, die ich nicht für mich geeignet hielt. Und natürlich kann sich alles ändern, sollte ich mal Athritis oder sonst was bekommen. Mein Mann hat mir all diese Nadelexperimente bezahlt - denn er meinte, dass ich das beste Werkzeug für mich finden soll.
I live in the city where Kollage are made! They help disabled people in the region find meaningful work! I prefer a stainless steel round needle, but their fixed circ and DPNs are pretty nice if you can get them!
yeah, they seem llike a truly good company. But well...almost impossible to source here in Europe... except I am ready to pay 100 USD in shipping and tariffs! >.
Just a minute into this and I want to say your pendant lights in the background intro are amazing! Now, back to the ergonomic needle review. Thanks, if I forget to comment afterwards.
I was hit by a car at age 19. My hands blocked the head on dammage and I survived.
I was going to make wigs for a living and found I could no longer hold a pencil.
Well life went on, I made due and forgot all about crochet and knitting as an option. Came the end of covid, about 19 years later and I realized I was plotzing to do it again. And I did. I have worked on every method of alleviating pain and am still experimenting. But each method made a big difference and was a learning process. Also if It's not working the first time, I go back to it later. The type of knitting needles I use make a huge difference. So even though I have lovely HiyaHiya's, the hurt way too much and I find myself using the square ones. Because they hurt less and are a totally irritating model re joins... But, make lemonade 🍋. Right?
I have tried a few types, each one has it's uses. But the main thing is, I keep at it and congratulate myself for succeeding so long after it should be game over.
Practically speaking, with the right needles, i have found the pain went down 90%-95%.
That's really significant !
Happy hunting everyone. Good luck!
so happy to hear you were able to make things work for you! I am gonna pin this comment for others to read, okay? :)
@@NimbleNeedles sure. NP
Wow.....!!..!! You are truly inspiring~!! Thank you for sharing your story and your journey!
🌻🧶🥢
Bravo to you! Started knitting recently; I’ve only just finished a cowl, and I already have significant pain and numbness recur in my thumb and forearm. That I didn’t have before. Well, I know I’m clutching tightly and doing things wrongly, and I’m a little bit older in age, so I hope that changing my style helps. But I was starting to fear I wouldn’t be able to pursue this hobby I’m loving so much! So your story is super inspirational for me. I will keep trying Things until I can do it! Thank you.
@@raeleohana8797 I combined Continental style with Irish/cottage knitting and it fixes those issues. You basically make the hand feeding the yarn do the work.
Hold the right in whatever way is most comfortable and let it rest wherever takes the weight off.
Then use the left to do all the moving.
It helps to work close to the needle tips.
On the right just use one finger to keep the loops from being pulled of. Lightly.
And release when stitches buildup and need to move along every so often.
Least painful for me, and faster without transferring which hand gets hurt.
I'm able to knit way more in the project and length of time.
Do your research. Eventually something will click for what's best for you.
💕
I have round, metal needles from a thrift store, I have been meaning to replace. Taking care of our hands is important. Thanks for doing so much research for us!
I always appreciate when expert knitters and crocheters provide video reviews like this - thank you! I have ergonomic hooks but not needles. I switch from knit to crochet to avoid pain in my hands and wrists.
I have arthritis and I switched from crochet to knitting because it was easier on my hands. I also bought some Knit Picks Foursquare Majestic Options Interchangeables. They have the 4 flat sides, but the corners have been rounded to make them more comfortable. They made a huge difference.
And Norman ALWAYS does a spectacular job on his videos.
@GucciBuns I did too! I love to crochet but it really does wreak havoc on my wrists and hands. I have to take frequent breaks and stretch often.
No matter what they say, those Addi novel needles' texture, does less message than they do helping a Beginner knitter get a feel for working with something between their fingers and using their stix.
I am arthritic and used to be a hairdresser, and while I am used to employing all of my fingers to do all things hair, I also employ them to do all things knitting, but I gotta say, I used to have trouble working my needles while the yarn was between me and my stix. My stitches kept falling off both of them!
I certainly thank Addi for helping me learn a new skill... It was killing my hands to have able to work the needles. I would have to try and grip so tight or things would just slip.
They eliminate that problem for me. Also, when I would try to knit and my hands were swollen, it was very hard...VERY hard to do.
These square textured needles help so much! Thank you for introducing me to them on this very video!
I use bamboo needles because it keeps me from going too fast. I have an anxiety disorder and by going slower i can enjoy my knitting. Thanks Norman for the info.
Thank you for sharing your opinion. It does help seeing them being used vs just looking at the package.
I thought, In this case it really does make sense. Tho it's not easy to convey what I feel on camera!
You really have me thinking. I have many needles and sizes that I got mostly from thrift shops, so they are all odds and ends. I knit mostly with size 2mm to 3.5mm except for an occasional project such as my profile pic. I do not like wood or plastic needles. I knit very tightly. I’d like to have a nice set. I often knit in the car, waiting rooms, etc. I’m considering double pointed because of the shorter lengths. I do not like interchangeables because of the step between needle/connection/wire. Your videos are helpful. Thank you.
Another great video. You give such through and honest feedback while remaining unbiased. Your recommendations take into account the variations in knitting styles and comfort preferences, making it easy for us to make the personal decision of what products are worth trying and which are probably a pass. Thank you for this awesome review!!
glad my reviews work so well for oyu. Not always easy to hold your own bias in check :P
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I have the prym ergonomics in size 2,5 mm for sock knitting with magic loop. At first I bought them so I could board a plane with them but then I really fell in love with them. I've used so many brands and types of needles already but these are my first ergonomics and just so incredibly comfortable to knit with, they've become my go to needles for socks right now. I look forward to getting more of them, or maybe trying different types of ergonomic needles 🥰
Truly love that knitting offers a variety of tools for an infinite number of knitters! Very similar to the preference of both material and construction of crochet hooks. I enjoy specific brands of rosewood, bamboo, metal and plastic in both knitting needles and crochet hooks. Each tool works for yarns made from certain materials. I often learn from each one, sometimes nodding in agreement, other times I notice differences. I truly enjoy your tutorials and I am grateful for the knowledge you provide. Thank you, Norman!
You are very welcome. Also, it would be strange of you'd agree with everything I say. We all have our preference and that is a hood thing!
Hello, I am so thankful to you. I think that I am learning from the very best. MASTER KNITTER AND INSTRUCTOR.🥰 I Just bought PRYM. you were not kidding when you made me aware that making cables is hard😳 to make. That's for sure. I was fighting with the knitting needles, twisting bending, it was just awful. I thought that I would use two pairs of double pointed knitting needles that are the same size as my straight knitting needles and slip 3 on the double-pointed knitting needle and then hold in front then knit three on my straight needle and then get my other double-point needle I think these needles are the DEVIL'S WEAPONS😮😮. THEN I KNIT 3 on the double-point knitting needle and then slip those stitches on my straight knitting needles, It works out well. I think the Blue Marking on the knitting needle is to make the knitter aware of the size of the knitting needle. I am determined to become a good knitter. I have not knitted in 30 years I am a big 63. I am surely getting a lot of practice. I donate all that I crochet and knit to a thrift store and the profits benefit the American Cancer Society in the United States Of America. You are a blessing. God bless you in all that you do. 😍🥰❤️😘🙋🏽☕🇵🇷🇺🇲
Thanks for your review. I just got a set of Knitter’s Pride Cubics in wood…mostly because they were a beautiful purple set 😊. I’ve just started a project using the 4.5mm needles. They felt weird at first, but I’m getting used to them and am liking them. I do agree that the taper could be longer and they are not the fastest needles, but I’ve had surgery on by dominate thumb, so I’m having issues controlling stitches from slipping off of my metal Chaiagoos…so these are helping with that. I love your reviews and will be looking at the metal Cubics when my thumb has healed. Thanks again!!
Tho, you really might want to give the prym a go as well..the tear drop tips are kinda perfect to prevent slipping off.
Thanks so much. I'm new to knitting, and only know how to crochet, and Tunisian crochet. I do have arthritis and some tendon issues, but do well with ergonomic hooks. I figured I'd do my research RE needles before I buy anything. I can learn stitches and techniques with my mom's old knitting needles, but I want to have the most comfortable ones as I get into making projects. I really appreciate your video, while I gather some additional knowledge. 👍
Also do consider that there are different styles. But if you are fine with ergonomic hooks..continental + ergonomic needles could be a good idea
I bought a Prim set of straight needles a year or so ago, but I really don’t like the tips, I need a very sharp tip for the way I knit. My ChiaGoo lace tips are my go-to.
@@NimbleNeedles Thanks so much. I know VERY little re needles, so I appreciate any input from anyone. I don't know what 'continental' means, but I will look it up. Sounds like 'continental + ergonomic' is a specific type. I'll see what I find out! 🙂 EDIT: Just discovered 'Continental' is a 'style' of knitting. 👍
@@kaptainskarlett9927 Thanks so much for your input! I am newer than new to this but I will say, after just experimenting with my mom's needles....I do appreciate sharper tips - even though I don't anticipate making lace projects. It's going to be trial and error...and I always find it quite easy to proclaim what I don't like vs exactly what I do!! 🤭
@@NimbleNeedles Just discovered 'Continental' is a 'style' of knitting & you have a video on it for beginners. I really like the idea of not learning the shortcuts that I'll have to unlearn!! My kind of teaching/ learning!! Thanks!
Thank you for a great video! I really enjoy watching your reviews because they're so exhaustive and in-depth ❤ That said, let me throw in my three cents too 😉
I own several Addi Novel fixed circulars but not because of how ergonomic they are but because I needed smaller-sized needles for knitting thin slippery yarns such as microfiber etc. - and I ended up loving them! I don't trust wood or plastic for under 3 mm needles and while Carbonz had also been an option, I decided on Addi Novel because of their unique shape. The bumps help to stop the yarn from slipping off and at the same time, the needles are perfectly smooth so the knitting is fast anyway.
Love this video! I bought one Addi skacel Ewenicorn fixed needle and really enjoyed it so I have purchased several more. My hands really like them
I like the Prym needles to use with yarn that splits easily. For me the bulb like tip helps me avoid splitting the yarn
I have the addi fixed circulars in sizes for socks, and I love using them for socks. You are right the taper is longer and much more comfortable for me than a shorter taper. One thing I find is that when doing lifted increases or decreases the slight indent shaping on the needles sometimes helps to either make space to insert the right hand needle or to hold a stitch back out of your way. This is maybe very small of an effect that isn’t always noticeable. I do get a looser gauge than with a standard round fixed circular of the same size. However in socks since I am making them with a slight negative ease, the increase is not so much that I need to change size or stitch count. However on larger needles, say 3.5 or 4 mm, I think the gauge difference is more noticeable, so just take care in searching.
Thanks for your program it was very helpful. Your reviews help me make great choices for buying needles and yarn. Thank you for this great review I appreciate all your help!
Always so informative! I learned a lot today. Danke schön, Norman. Hope you're doing well today!
in fact I am, thank you. such a beautiful sunny day
I love my Addi needles. Then i got the Addi Novel needles and find myself very reluctant to go back to my original Addi needles. It seems like i'm able to knit much faster with the Novels. I've had the Prym ergonomics for a long time but have never used them because I love the Addi needles so much.
Thank you for such an interesting and enlightening video. I must admit that as only an occasional knitter it has never previously occurred to me that there is a reason for the different kinds of needles out there! I’d just kinda assumed that it was just because some people prefer one kind to another, now I know that there’s much more to it than that. As a person with arthritic hands I now feel much better equipped to select needles best suited for my hands and my style of knitting. Thank you Norman, you are such an inspiration to me.
There are also hexagonal needles! They are only from a couple of small companies, as far as I know. I personally love them. Great in between a full round and a square.
yeah, there are. If you go to etsy, you can find tons of small supplies for very interesting needles!
Yes they really do help!
0:27 Norman, good morning! I own a set of Kollage interchangeables. They are very nice to knit with. They come with two sets of cables in 3 lengths, both plastic. One set rigid, one set memory free on swivel connectors. They do snag a little at the connection point and can be on the noisier side. However, I do like that the company employs a lot of disabled people to produce these sets. Tips are blunt, so not the best for lace, but very fast.
I have been watching the way you hold your yarn, and how you use your needle to pull the yarn through. I normally dont use my left hand for anything, but holding the needle, and have my right hand wrap the yarn around the needle. I have just spent a few minutes practicing the way you knit. It's a lot less twisting on the wrists, and im happy i gave it a go ❤
I have some more in depth tutorials on continental style knitting here on UA-cam. Maybe check those out 😊
@@NimbleNeedlesI think I will because I’m just learning and my hands and wrists hurt so much! I’m a crocheter and I know something is up with my wrists right now. Need to see my osteopath again.
But it's harder on the back. You use the muscles between your shoulder blades.
Thank you so much for your in depth information on finger and needle contact. You reviews are the best! I’ve heard that Addi Rocket 2 squared is another one. Is this an upgrade on their Novel? Has this been reviewed yet?
No, i haven't reviewed the new addi square dpns here on this channel yet. Products come and go so fast it's hard to keep up, lol! :)
Thanks!
Thank YOU for supporting my work ❤️
Great job
Thanks again Norman! You are the best! Thank you for all you do for your channel!
As always, my pleasure 🥰
Those Prym fixed needles might be the answer to my cats destroying my lace and Swiv cables!
I just love your thoughtful, informative, contemplative, demonstrative videos. Thoroughly researched, well presented and organized. Well done and thank you.
Thanks for the great information. I love my Addis. I have the standard Rocket lace and short Rocket lace by Addi. I will keep the Novel needles in mind if I develop any hand issues. I also have HiyaHiya sharps, but I keep returning to the Addis.
I do love their fixed circulars a lot as well!!
Another great video, Norman. I think I must be the most insensitive knitter in the universe. . . not as a person but in my hands. I've used all the needles in all your needle review videos and lots of others. Except for slight changes in gauge among them and that wood are generally slower than metal, my hands feel nearly no difference among them. Nonetheless I am drawn to buying at least one pair of every new needle that comes on the market. I have not, however, reverted to knitting with straight sticks since converting to circulars twenty-five years ago--just too cumbersome and too dangerous as the sticks fly out and hit the person sitting next to me especially on airplanes.😱
Interesting! You always do excellent reviews. I've wondered about what gauge changes would occur with these. Luckily I don't have hand issues (yet), so I'm happy with my chiagoo needles. I often wonder what my mother would think about all the innovations in knitting tools these days.
heh...well..i dunno...but I for one am always thrilled to see something new. Sometimes it's not great..okay..but without trying there can never be improvement!
@NimbleNeedles I think she'd be surprised but would try them all! I remember her trying circulars for the first time and raving about how wonderful they were lol
I prefer a circular (knit English style). I’m trying knit a baby sweater. Pattern calls for a 3 or 4 US circular needle but the length is what I need to know. I started with a 9 inch and then changed to a 24 inch. I don’ t like doing magic loop. Is there a better way?
well, for a baby sweater, you might want to toy around with using one super short needle on the left or right side (whatever you feel works better for you). Chiaogoo, for example, as mini needles. That way, you can get away with a smaller diamter without it being a struggle.
But other than that, i should probably record a video on knitting in the round with circulars WITHOUT magic loop.
Just fyi if you have sensitive skin prym can leave a skin rash! I emailed them and said they did have evidence of this but it wasn’t common. My skin really didn’t the coating of the needles!
interesting. Thank you for letting us know!
Norman, thank you for this video! It had so many useful facts. You helped me decide what type of ergonomic to buy and I love them!
One question, have you ever heard of Micron needles? They 14:11 are being sold on EBay from Ukraine. I can’t find any information about them except what the seller tells me. Do you know anything about them? Have you ever used them? What do you think of them? I’d appreciate anything you could tell me.
Thank you so much,
Marjorie
no i haven't heard of them yet.
I’ve really come to love your videos 🫶
You give me the up-to-date chit chat while I knit, crochet, sew or other craft and I enjoy your accent and cadence immensely 🤗
**edit Ooo… you have a Lamy Allstar! 🥵
Thank you so much, Norman! As always you have provided such clear information. I would call myself an advanced beginner knitter, and I have arthritis in my thumb joints. I recently completed my first sweater and I used the Prym ergonomic needles.
I used a smaller size so they were round, not triangular. I really like those little hook tips! It seems to me that they save some very slight muscle movements; it’s easier to pick up and keep the stitches on the tip of the needle. It’s very subtle, but I think it’s real.
I did use them for magic loop on the sleeves, it worked but I don’t have anything to compare it to as it was my first time knitting in the round in a small circumference. I would agree that the stitches do not flow easily across the needles, and it slowed me down. Also, the sizing is a bit confusing as they apparently come sized both as mm and US sizes (there is no US 2 1/2).
However I liked those hook tips so much that I will use them again, as I really think they helped my thumbs.
Yeah, I do feel they save some movements and often that can be all that is important. 5 millimeters less if twisting your wrist etc!
I am treating myself to my most used size with worsted weight yarn (4.5 mm/7) in the addi fixed circular novel. I have arthritis quite badly and the best thing I can do is switch crafts and or stitch patterns and most importantly, give myself brief rest periods. Several years ago I made my hands so bad I had to give up knitting and crochet, but now that I rest and change my hand's movements pretty often I am contentedly knitting and crocheting again. As always, Thank you Norman for your detailed analysis.
I love addi novel
Really learn a lot from you. How do you knit sweater sleeves that have stitches on the each side of the seam and sometimes on the neck seam - you see it in cashmere sweaters, etc. I would send a picture but don't know how to on this feed. Do you have a post for this? Thank you so much!
No, sorry, I don't, yet
Love your videos, Norman. Thorough and every possible detail covered in good detail. In addition to the readily available needles you covered, if one is willing to invest a bit more money, one can also go with Indian Lakes Artisans. Their needles are hexagonal, like wooden pencils in our school days. They are available as straights, DPNs, interchangeable, fixed circulars, and jump needles. They use a variety of hardwoods, and are customizable as to length of needles and cables. I got a few several years ago, and the are wonderful. Not cheap, but for me, it was worth the investment
Yeah, I am aware of them but didn't include them here because they r very hard to come by
What have you done! I just checked them out!
I'm in love ❤ but I wonder if one of my kids would accidentally sharpen such a needle😂😢!.
Also I'll shout out Knit Picks makes a square line too.
@@ruthyk7083 Too funny. Hide the pencil sharpener! 😂
I have tried a Kolage Square needle size 4.5 mm circular and found that after only a few stitches, it digs into my fingers where the sharp edge of the square rests. It also makes a very noticeable scraping sound.
I see. thank you for sharing your experiences.
Great video! I love the Prym ergonomic needles I use my index finger to guide the tip of the right needle. And the ergonomic tips are easy on the finger tips. I knit both continental and flick method. The joins could be a bit better, I agree.
Hi i do crochet but i don't know how to knit. Thank u sooo much for this tutorial 😊😊❤. Amazing 🤩😍
I have always wanted to try the Prym needles but was put off a little by the end "drumstick" look; looked like a gimmick. I will buy one to see if they work for me. Thank you for doing this review! Much appreciated.
Yeah, I can well understand that. But for me, that's not the problem at all - really surprising!
I prefer them to all my others.
That part is not the issue. It's the plastic and wires for me. Good for beginners or Norwegian knitting, but otherwise really frustrating!
Thanks for intensive review. Needles are personal preference. I tried Prym and Novel, but honestly prefer round needles from Knit (Carbon) and lace needles from Chiagoo. I use the Crazy Trio and DPNs for hats and socks, depending on Pattern. Most important is to rest and not spend hours……. when knitting and crocheting.❤
Yeah, I mean I hope it kinda showed through in the video that my personal preference is neither of them. Then again, I am not 100% the target audience either 😅😁
PS.,I prefer fixed needles. I always choose them over the other kind
Excellent teaching
Thanks so much for this informative video. I have started learning to knit after doing crochet, and the basic needles I got are so painful to use with inflammatory arthritis. Will be trying a few of these different types!
Take extra care then..and remember to take frequent breaks in the beginning!
Thank you for this comprehensive review. I’ve been liking the look of the Addi Novels and appreciated them being featured. Thank you, Norman. ❤
❤ your videos. Thank you so much!!
You are very welcome, Janis!
Nice Lamy pen! 😀 Also appreciate the information on ergonomic needles. I use an ergonomic keyboard exclusively due to having had tendinitis in my wrist years ago from using a straight (standard) keyboard, which forces the arms and wrists into an unnatural position. Now that I've taken up knitting (after decades as a crocheter), I'm curious to try ergonomic knitting needles ... though I'm already addicted to my set of Chiaogoo's. 😊 Being new to knitting, I'm trying *not* to pick up bad habits like pushing the left needle with the right index finger, and instead trying to learn the right way to knit without pain so I can continue to enjoy knitting for many years to come.
I will try the Addi novel. But I have read others saying the same, you hit them in a strange way. But I am learning lever knitting after 60 years of Norwegian knitting. Which gives me pain between my shoulders now. But thar kind of knitting is much faster. Now I am just happy to be able to knit again. I think the addi novel will be good for lever, as I have a problem with the stiches staying too close to the tip. I am thinking, maybe the stiches stay more down on the Addi. And I would think, a long tip is good for lever. Though I have just started doing lever. I will always buy fixed.
I don´t have any handicap nor pain in hands but I love Prym ergonomic needles and their "olive" tips, it is so easy to knit with them and they feel as light as a feather in hands - but won´t buy them anymore - the plastic needles have cracked several times in my hands and the cords have torn off - I realized I needed the swivel cords to prevent this so I have purchased KnitPro Mindful and they work for me well.
Greetings from the Czech Rep. to gorgeous Wien!
Whenever I am dealing with yarn that splits, I add more twist and no more splits! Easy!
I have played around with many ways to do this they're all kind of silly and kind of fun but they get the job done and then I can go back to my knitting... Or crochet... or Tunisian. It's kind of a welcome break, really. If anybody wants to know, hit me up....
Im a huge fan of the prym ergonomics! They lend themselves really well to continental knitting because of the little ball tips, the plastic is beautifully light, and the coated steel cable is the best I've ever tried, especially when doing a traveling magic loop. The spun steel curls up into a loop really well. They also have that dark blue rubber part where they connect to the wire, which reduces snagging when working a smaller project. I wish they came in shorter needle lengths though, they are quite long for circulars.
Well said Norman, all power to you :)
Wooden Cubics needles breaks easily from the base of the metal and it doesn't have to have tight stitches. I have broken a few of these like matches.
hm..yeah for some knitters that does happen a lot. but I guess that'S your sign to use a different material.
What serendipity! I’ve been road testing the kollage square needles [thrift store deep discount] and they are remarkable. No finger or wrist pain. Yes I do have arthritis, but even the metal was warm and it’s the softest cable I’ve ever come across. Addi Novel for socks are my next investment. Thank you for your advice and research! A big help in our decision making.
Lucky you! Those needles are usually pricey!!!
Norman,
This video has reached me at the perfect time! I just stumbled upon the ergonomic needles and wondered about them. You've answered ALL the questions that were popping up in my mind about these "new to me" needles.
As per the usual, Norman, you have cleared away the questions with your thuro investigation and beautifully filmed video.
Thank you so very much for your time and attention given to this subject. I found this video extremely helpful and I appreciate you and your opinions above all others.
💜✌️🧶
I have not tried most of those. I love Prym needles.,the small ones. The bigger needles feel weird. I love your comparisons. You are honest and think of everything. I have an addi. Have to be careful of points. Ouch!
Yeah, same here..the big ones are just weird...for me at least
I wanted to like the Prym so badly but those bendable tips drove me nuts. The cables are great.
They're great cables. I was struggling with magic loop until I tried it with my Prym needles and that's where the magic is!
Thank you for your in depth look at these needles, it's just what I was looking for! I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis a couple years ago and haven't felt like knitting again until now. I will be trying a pair of all of these plus I found a maker of hexagonal needles too.
If only Prym would dump those tips I think they might rival Chia Goo. Oops, obviously some knitters love those damn nubbins, so…if Prym would bring out a sharp tip range. Or even a carbon fibre, sharp tip, metal cable range…smelling salts needed
yeah...i mean...i don't think their needles hold much for advanced knitters so I too wonder why they don't add more needles to their product catalogue. would be cool.
Thank you for the in depth video.
I have a question: once the size printed on the needle rubs off, how can you check? I imagine none of the normal gauge checker work with these needles
that is actually very good question. Well, i believe there are special needle gauges for the square ones but that's about it. So, i dunno...lol...good question!
Another brand recommended to me (but I haven’t tried, as they are expensive) are hexagonal needles made by Indian Lake Artisans. I don’t know if they are available outside of the US. They would be more “round” than the squares.
Thanks so much for this cool video. Really appreciate it. Your fan from Antalya Turkey ❤❤
Alway, always, you give such sensible comments. I so appreciate your open minded common sense about knitting tools.
Excellent, as always! You are a gem, a treasure!thank you so much for all this detailed info and time.
Thank you👌🏽God Bless Happy New Year 2024🎉
Thank you for your reviews, tips, and tutorials. I appreciate you!
I feel like, please don't fall in love with a new needle. You know what that leads to. But I was pretty curious about this.
i recently ordered the prym needles as I have wrist pain . Previously i used the knitters pride square shaped needles with good results but wanted some alternatives. I am also a tight knitter and the square needles changed my gage but it was an easy fix just changing the needle size to get the correct gage. Knit picks also has wooden square needled with a longer point. I never saw the addie square needles before I will look out for the fixed needles and try them as I do have wrist pain issues. and I love my knitting.
How are you enjoying the prym needles? Wrist pain is my most persistent irritation when knitting. I need to practice different technique but I'm also interested in these ergonomic needles.
They have helped as I can knit longer with them. When nor knitting do use a brace to give myself support and rest the tendons. It is a matter of trial and error. The length of the needle tip and the size of your hands, how tightly you hold the needles etc. IAs I stated originally I have different shape needles that i use but overall I like the Prym needles both Knit and crochet hooks. @@uschilou
@@nailahvenable7989 Thank you! I appreciate your insight. This is a relatively new pain for me so I'm learning how to manage it better.
Great review, thanks!
I do have some wrist and joint pain in my right hand and I do find the square needles help my grip and allow me to knit with less trouble.
My main needles are another square U.S. brand: Knit Picks. I use their Foursquare wood needles and I find them to be much nicer than the Knitter's Pride version. The tips are pretty sharp, they have a longer taper, and the join to the metal socket is smoother. Also the wood is more polished or has more of a coating so they are pretty slick for wood needles. They work with all the Knitter's Pride cables and accessories too.
I also have the Addi Novel interchangeables and a bunch of fixed Addi Rocket Squared in the smaller sizes (for socks) for when I want a metal needle for certain types of yarn. I like them, but I most often use the Knit Picks unless I'm knitting socks.
I haven't tried the Prym ergonomic needles, though I have been curious about those tips. I love their crochet hooks.
Thanks for sharing, the Knit Picks Foursquare wood needles look perfect for me and my arthritis. Would have gone with the Knitter's Pride cubics but was apprehensive of the short needle tip.
Thank you for this comprehensive and true review. I love the idea of just buying a pair of each and trrying them, I'll do that if I get pain knitting, which is happily not the case now.
I wish Prym offered interchangeable sets.
yeah, that could be cool!
As usual, you give clear and reasonable information, Thank you.
Awesome video Norman. I would love it if you would do a video on accessories, your likes and dislikes. It’s amazing what is out there on the market and I know everyone has their favourites but not everyone actually knows the advantages and disadvantages that come with them. Just a thought 😊. By the way I just subscribed to your channel, thanks for all your helpful videos.
you mean like this? ua-cam.com/video/338ZuWMOnT4/v-deo.html
I am so confused about the "best needles"
I can say that we need to be careful using "cheap" needles. I finished a few baby blankets that were knitted on 2mm silvery metal double pointed. The lady who knitted the pieces is very picky about her work and tries to keep it clean. The blankets were white but they were greyish stained. I could not figure out why, at first. Then I realized that the metal was tarnishing the yarn. It was so hard to get clean. I used Oxy and other products without a complete success. It was backbreaking to get this tarnish off. It looked like the cloth you use to clean/polish silver or brass, etc. I did get it acceptable but not perfect. The other issue is that this lady knits extremely tightly. The combination of tight knitting, sweaty hands and cheap 2mm needles gave a less than desirable finished project.
Yeah, that could happen. Tho, I am still unsure why you are confused about the best needles?
The major effects on pain in knitting will be in hand position and tensioning of yarn etc. fixing that is more work than buying gimmicky needles like the plastic ones you showed. It’s easy to spend money on a new toy, but likely won’t result in much effect of your hands have the wrong habits. My addi rocket squared needles are no better or worse than my standard chiaogoo needles. In my flicking style, my hands are both in neutral position and fir the most part, im touching the needles through the yarn, do my fingers basically don’t touch the metal anyhow. The main pain-inducer for me is any friction moving my stitches forward, so I am really sensitive to the way anything impedes that. Plus, occasionally my hiya hiya flyers start to make a hole in a fingertip if I’m spending too much time doing socks at small gauge.
Yeah, basically what I also said in the very last 5 minutes of the video. Tho, I would be hesitant to just limit things on hand position as well.
The friction that you are feeling on the interchangeable Addis might be leftover metal polish. Wiping them down with some rubbing alcohol and a cloth or paper towel will remove it. It's something that can happen with any metal needle.
hm...could be. But even if that was the case, I still feel its noteworthy because a lot of people won't think of that either.
The square needles are for people with finger num problem's eg diabetic and your fingers num up, well the square needles will stimulate your blood.
that is not what it says on the manufacturers website
@@NimbleNeedlesHi Norman, when I purchased the square Chiagoo set I was told it was good for stimulating the finger's I trust this Seller an old time store for me, as I'm a diabetic and sometimes my finger's numb up it's very difficult for me to knit, until I tried the square Chiagoo set which works wonders for me, it might not say it, or might not have been designed for it, but believe me it works. Love your work. Cheers Sonia
@@soniadangelis5747 I am not aware of a square Chiaogoo Set. Where did you purchase these?
First I have to say I love ❤your videos. You have taught me how to be a much better knitter. The only request I have is if you could help with the best way to finish necks on small sweaters. Should I use a round needle or a set of double ended needles.
Sorry..don't have a video for sweaters yet. 😓
Thanks for the review. Very helpful.
you are very welcome, Louise!
It was a really great video! I might have to give them a try! Thank you very much!
Thorough and very interesting review. Thank you.
i spent 2 minutes of this video wondering what economic needles were until i found out that in fact i just cant read
Haha 🤣🙈
Hey, I hope all is good with you. I have both the wooden and metal Cubics needles and I do love them apart from one major issue the metal ones have. Over time their coating is scraped off making the needles impossible to use. The yarn will get caught on the scrapes and it feels terrible to knit with. One solution I came up with was to use one wooden and one metal needle together. The rubbing of the wooden and metal needles does not cause the coating to get damaged. I knit with the stitches from the metal needle (because its faster to push stitches on to) which I then knit on to the wooden needle. One final note about the wooden cubics is that the ends can snap off really easily on the bottom of the smaller mm needles, so take care not to tighten them too tightly when attaching the cable.
yeah, that's the problem of all coated needles. Do consider, the coating is just a couple of atoms thick. I still prefer coated needles over stainelss steel, etc. sure, they might not last that long..but while they last the ride is so much smoother!
My favourite day is when I see a new video from you! Excellent info as usual, gives me lots to think about.
Heh. Glad to hear that. My Videos are always published every second Sunday 16:30 cet.
(Tho I might slow down a bit during summer break..currently debating that)
Thank you for great video ,as always 😊
I'm so glad I found you! Very thoughtful observations on knitting are so appreciated. Fun Fact: In July 2023, My daughter marched through the streets of Vienna with her university's marching band.
marched? but that's in the future? :P
@@NimbleNeedles 2022...my mistake! This is also why I do a lot of "unknitting" & reknitting my projects!
Danke für dieses informative Video. Ich stricke momentan nur mehr und hab (wie auch bei den Häkelnadeln) mir von allen Marken und Formen jeweils ein paar bestellt, so nach und nach. Nur Prym hatte ich nicht, denn die kamen mir komisch vor. Auch wegen den unterschiedlichen "Tropfen" vorne und den Unterschieden, die du gezeigt hast. Ich find das komisch.
Ich hab so echt viel probiert und weiss nun, welche Nadeln für mich die passenden sind. Ich probier aber zwischendurch immer wieder die, die ich nicht für mich geeignet hielt. Und natürlich kann sich alles ändern, sollte ich mal Athritis oder sonst was bekommen. Mein Mann hat mir all diese Nadelexperimente bezahlt - denn er meinte, dass ich das beste Werkzeug für mich finden soll.
Ja die Tropfen sehen komisch aus. Aber wie gesagt, funktioniert deutlich besser als es aussieht
I live in the city where Kollage are made! They help disabled people in the region find meaningful work! I prefer a stainless steel round needle, but their fixed circ and DPNs are pretty nice if you can get them!
yeah, they seem llike a truly good company. But well...almost impossible to source here in Europe... except I am ready to pay 100 USD in shipping and tariffs! >.
@@NimbleNeedles yeah, I looked it up and it looks like there's only 3 places in all of Europe to buy their needles!
I really like the Prym circulars. They also help when I am using two yarns at once.
oh yes..that's I think one of their main strengths!
Just a minute into this and I want to say your pendant lights in the background intro are amazing! Now, back to the ergonomic needle review. Thanks, if I forget to comment afterwards.
heh. My studio was blocked due to some construction work..so I had to move to my living room! :P
Back again. I'm going to try out a set of Knitters Pride square dpns. Thanks.
Thank you, great reviews 😊
I love my knit pro metal cubics,would love to know if there is a difference when knitting in a hot climate,as looking for best when knitting by pool.
Hmm..well, there's a difference as your hands will be sweaty/sticky...now whether that makes u prefer metal over wood is up for debate 😅
Hmm..well, there's a difference as your hands will be sweaty/sticky...now whether that makes u prefer metal over wood is up for debate 😅