How to Knit Using Double Pointed Needles

Many beginning knitters shy away from using double pointed needles because it seems so much more difficult than "regular" knitting. However, with a little practice, you'll find that being able to knit with double pointed needles will open up a whole world of patterns, including socks, baby garments and the trendy "mitts" that are so popular right now.

Essentially, using double pointed needles enables you to knit "in the round" in smaller diameters than even the smallest length circular needles permit.

So, grab a set of double points, a skein of yarn and let the adventure begin!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• one set (four) double point needles (any size for practice)
• yarn, preferably lighter weight (any color for practice)

1. 
    
   Divide 60 stitches between three needles.

   Cast on! We are going to cast on a total of 60 stitches. Try not to cast on too loosely or the needles will tend to slip through. Cast 20 stitches on needle number one. Then, while holding the first needle, use needle number two to continue cast on 20 more stitches. Take up needle number three and cast on the last twenty stitches.

2. 
    
   Join by slipping the first stitch on needle one and wrapping working yarn around.

   Joining. This can be tricky. It is very important not to allow the cast on stitches to twist. Hold the needles so that they form a triangle. All the cast on ridges should lay inside the triangle.
   
   With the working yarn in the front of your work, use the fourth needle to slip the first stitch (which is the first stitch cast on) purl wise. Bring the working yarn between the needles to the back of the work. Slip the stitch from the fourth needle back on to the first needle.

3. Knit. Use the fourth needle and knit to the end of the first needle (20 stitches). With the now empty first needle, knit across the next 20 stitches and do the same for the last 20 stitches. The empty needle becomes your working needle every time. Continue to take care not to let the work twist around the needle.

4. 
    
   Knit several rows for practice.

   Practice. Knit several inches in the round, then try a few inches of purling and finally, just for fun, do a section of ribbing.

5. Go for it! Now, find that sock, mitten or baby pattern you've avoided for so long and have at it! Or find free and easy patterns on the internet.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't worry if there is a slight gap where you joined. You can fix it when you weave in the yarn tail when you've finished your project.
• You may want to mark the start of your rounds with a safety pin or locking marker pinned directly to the work. Ring markers tend to fall off the needles.
• Your needles will tend to slip through if your stitches are too loose. If this is an ongoing problem, considering using needle caps until you are comfortable with holding the work without the needles slipping.

[lynsuz12]

on 8/19/2009 Double needle is tricky for me. With your article and tips, I may try it again. Thanks 5*

[sonni57]

on 4/24/2009 Good info on knitting with a double pointed needle.