I made a recent purchase that I'm thrilled about. I purchased a set of wooden, circular knitting needles and I couldn't be more thrilled. There are many different brands of this style of needles available and I chose the Knit Picks brand based on reviews from others. I also liked the variety of colors available. I know that it sounds unbelievable but these wooden needles have allowed me to knit successfully after a lifetime of failed attempts to learn this skill even at a beginning level.
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| My first successful knitting project! |
I have crocheted for decades. I learned how to crochet as a child. I was also taught how to knit at that time. While I love to crochet, I personally think knit stitches are gorgeous, that knitted items are prettier, and I always dreamt of being able to knit. However, I have tried multiple times throughout my life to learn this skill and always gave up very quickly. My left hand would not communicate with my right, the loops of yarn would fall off during the stitch, and sometimes part of an entire project would slide right off the needles. If this sounds like you, I hope you continue reading.
I have finally learned to knit! I have completed several swatches (small sections of a project to test size and to practice a stitch) and I am currently knitting a scarf. It is hard to believe that I have finally been able to successful knit. The secret for me seems to be circular, wooden knitting needles.
A friend at work was knitting and listening to my complaints of never having been able to learn to knit, despite all of my attempts over years. She asked what type of needles I had used. I had always used straight, aluminum knitting needles. She suggested that I try wooden needles. Her opinion is that they are not as smooth as aluminum needles and she believed that the stitches don't fall off as easily when using wooden knitting needles.
I ordered the Knit Picks wooden, circular knitting needle set that night. And with her reminders of how to cast on and do the stocking stitch, I was knitting the very day after they were delivered.
Knit Picks Options Circular, Wooden Knitting Needle Set
- Interchangeable needs and cables
- 9 pairs of 4.75" long wood needle tips; US sizes 4-11 (3.5mm - 8mm)
- 4 black cables: 2 each in 24", 1 in 32", and 1 in 40" length (length refers to total length when needles are attached to the cables)
- 8 black end caps
- 1 cable connector and 2 metal tightening keys
- flexible, vinyl 9" x 5.5" case with snap closure and two accessory pockets
- a variety of colors to choose from
- a rating of 4.5 stars in over 2,800 reviews on Amazon, on this date
With crochet hooks, I prefer aluminum hooks by far. I had noticed the "drag" or "friction" that occurs when I have used plastic, acrylic, or wooden crochet hooks. I prefer to fly along when crocheting with a easy-slide metal hook. I had never imagined that the "friction" with wooden knitting needles may prevent the loops from slipping from the needle, and may be the solution for me. Like magic, I have suddenly learned how to knit with these wooden knitting needles.
I have also found that the circular needles, with the attached cables, help me to manage my project and keep it from slipping from the needles. I highly recommend the Knit Picks Options Wooden Interchangeable Knitting Needle Set that I purchased. But there are many similar sets to choose from; a variety of sizes, accessories, and cases. If knitting has eluded you due to frequent dropped stitches, and difficulty holding onto the needles, wooden needles may be the solution for you too.
Your stitches are beautiful, Dawn! Your knitting samplers certainly do not look like those of a beginner. I've never tried wooden needles (although I do love circular needles). It has been a long time since I pulled out my knitting needles. I sure like the looks and the description of using the wooden knitting needles. However, I would need a refresher course (or youtube video) to pick it back up again.
ReplyDeleteI learned to knit maybe 60 years ago, but was never very successful at it. I always prefered crochet for my yarn projects, but have wanted for some time to get back to knitting. Perhaps, as you discovered, the solution to success is wooden knitting needles. Thanks for telling me about them.
ReplyDeleteAs Sylvestermouse said, your knitting looks extremely even! You must have the knack of even tension. While not much of a needlewoman myself, my mom was an avid knitter before finding her true calling (intricate embroidery) and my sister is also a terrific knitter. I’m so glad you found needles that make knitting so much easier for you.
ReplyDeleteWow Dawn Rae, I never knew something like this existed. I like the interchangeable aspect of this set. When I'm done with all the knitting needles that I inherited from my mom, I would consider buying a set like these. I'm happy that they seem to help with knitting easier and they are beautiful too! Thanks for this review.
ReplyDeleteMy mom could knit, I never learned. Just crocheting. Your knitting looks fabulous!
ReplyDeleteI haven't knitted since I was a kid, but I can see where this type of knitting needles can come in handy.
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