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How to Understand the Differences Between Knitting Needles

There are different kinds of knitting needles to choose from for different projects. You will find wooden, plastic or aluminum in different lengths and shapes. There are straight, circular or double pointed.

Different materials

For the most part Knitting Needles are made of wood, aluminum or plastic. They used to make them from bone. If you ever find any bone needles hang on to them as they are very rare and quite valuable.

Straight needles

For most projects you will use a standard STRAIGHT NEEDLE. They are sold in pairs and have a point at one end and a knob at the other.

Various knitting needles arranged on a black background.

Circular needles

Circular needles have a point at both ends and a cord or wire in the middle. A CIRCULAR NEEDLE is usually used for round projects where you don't want to have a seam, like hats. They can also be used as straight needles for very large projects like afghans.

Knitting needles and circular knitting cable on a dark background.

Double-pointed needles

DOUBLE POINTED needles are sold in sets of 4 and are also used for small projects where you don't want to have a seam, like socks. On both circular and double pointed needles you are "working in the round" and will be knitting every row. (Unless you are using the circular as a straight needle then you will be knitting stockinette, or whatever pattern you want.)

Knitting needles with a yellow yarn.

Watch the video to learn more about knitting needles:

Tips

Always wipe your needles off before using them to make sure there are no dirty spots on your work.

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