How to Buy Knitting Needles

Buying knitting needles seems like an easy task--and it is. Especially once you understand the factors that make a knitting needle easy and fast to use. By following the steps in this article, you can evaluate your options to choose the knitting needle that will work best for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Figure out the size of the knitting needle you want. A pattern will give you guidelines on what size needle to use. But more importantly, look at the jacket on your yarn. This will tell you exactly what size needle you will need to make a typical 4 inch by 4 inch gauge.

2. Decide on a knitting needle length. Generally, the longer the row you intend to knit, the longer the needle you'll want. Scarves made with thin yarn can be knit with very short needles. Sweaters made with yarn thick enough to require size 10 needles will probably need a circular needle. Pick a needle length that you think you can reuse on other knitting projects, but keep in mind: Longer needles tend to make even the most proficient knitter lose speed.

3. Choose between knitting needle materials. Knitting needles are generally made from one of three materials: bamboo/wood, metal and plastic/synthetic materials. These materials affect the needle's stiffness and smoothness, which in turn affect the knitter's speed. Generally, stiff needles are the best to work with for any experience level. Smoothness affects how easily the yarn moves on the needle. To keep the yarn from unintentionally sliding off the needle, beginning knitters might prefer a needle that is stickier, such as bamboo/wood.

4. Buy knitting needles that are lighter weight over those that are heavy. No matter what your experience level, the lighter the needle, the faster your knitting speed. However, needle weight is of secondary importance to stiffness and smoothness. Consider weight only if you are choosing between two needles of equally acceptable stiffness and smoothness.

5. Consider the sound the knitting needles will make as you use them. Although the experienced knitter might prefer aluminum needles, she also acknowledges that these needles make clicking sounds, and that when she watches a movie with others, she should opt for wood. Metal needles are the loudest and wood needles are the most quiet. Take that into consideration if you plan to knit on the train or in a movie theater.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider double-ended knitting needles for small circular projects. If you're working on socks, the pattern may have already suggested double-ended needles. These are best for small items (such as socks, baby hats and doll dresses) that you knit in the round.