How to Use Wood Knitting Needles

Wood knitting needles are perfect for knitters who don't like the click-clack sound that metal needles sometimes make. Wood needles are also good for beginning knitters because the wood is a less slippery surface than metal, so you're less likely to lose or drop stitches when knitting. However, you use wood knitting needles the same as other needles and it's simply a matter of personal preference which ones you use most often.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wood knitting needles
• Yarn

1. Select wood knitting needles to use. These are usually made from bamboo, rosewood or ebony.

2. Choose your needle size based on the project you're making.

3. Keep in mind the yarn you're using. Some yarns drag so much on wood needles that it makes for slow progress. Silk and many wools slide along wood needles easily, but cotton may drag more.

4. Hold your knitting needles and begin knitting, according to your project's instructions or based on your own design.

5. Perform your knit and purl stitches the same way you would as if you were using metal needles. Wood knitting needles tend to be quieter than their metal counterparts.

Tips & Warnings

• The natural oils from your hands conditions your wood needles the more you use them.
• Store your knitting needles when not in use in a safe place. Small wooden needles may break if stepped on or sat on.