Magic Loop Socks-KnitPicks Options-what length?

Rennagayle · 08-30-2006, 10:55 AM

I've wanted to try the Magic Loop method for socks for some time. I was under the understanding that you use 47" length; plus I've read/heard over and over again that I should use Addis Turbos for this. I haven't found any on eBay, or at any yarn shops I've visited, so I've not yet tried this

Now, I've read on here by different ones that KnitPicks Options needles will work for this, but a couple of different people mentioned they use size 60" needles.

Could someone please set me straight on this, as I'd like to order the correct length from KnitPicks so I can finally start learning the Magic Loop method.

knitqueen · 08-30-2006, 04:10 PM

Anything longer than 32" works great. I've done magic loop on 32" and that works too but longer is better. I've also done magic loop with a 60" and that was WAY too long. So much cord to pull through everytime you switch rows, especially with something so small like socks. 40" or 47" is ideal for magic loop from my experience. Addi works great for magic loop because of the flexible cables, but from what I've heard the Options have great cables too so I'm sure they'd be awesome.

Rennagayle · 08-30-2006, 04:18 PM

Thank you, Knitqueen! I really had wanted to make them with Addis, but as I said, I couldn't seem to get my hands on any, and with everyone raving over the Options (and they're cheap!), I think I'll just give them a try. Of course I'll simply have to find enough yarn to go with the order to avoid paying the shipping charge.

Thank you again for your help; you've made my day!

knitqueen · 08-30-2006, 05:00 PM

Glad to help. And just so you know, ebay Jeff Wonderland now sells 40" Addis. He didn't used to. In his ebay index on the left of the page it says he only has 4 but there are way more sizes than that if you scroll through the pages. The page I linked has lots. Good luck!!!

Rennagayle · 08-30-2006, 06:48 PM

Thanks again. You've been a wealth of information.

janelanespaintbrush · 08-30-2006, 07:04 PM

The mail dude just delivered a pair of 32" KP classic circs in size 1 that I ordered especially for magic loop socks. I've used 32" options for a sleeve knit in the round w/ magic loop and it turned out okay (well, until I frogged it!), so I'm figuring the 32" classics should suffice for socks, at least when knit one at a time (I'm not sure about two at once).

I'm planning to (finally) kool-aid dye my sock yarn later today, and hope to start knitting as soon as it's dry. If all goes well, I will probably be able to give you a first-hand report in a couple of days. Of course since I'm a total sock virgin, I'm bound to be bumbling and clueless during my "first time," so I don't know how helpful my review will be.

Rennagayle · 08-30-2006, 07:57 PM

" If all goes well, I will probably be able to give you a first-hand report in a couple of days. Of course since I'm a total sock virgin, I'm bound to be bumbling and clueless during my "first time," so I don't know how helpful my review will be "

I still look forward to it. :D

losnana · 08-31-2006, 12:53 AM

I;m just finishing the sleeve of a sweater on 40 " needles. I'm using Inox, though, since I dont have the interchangeables yet. Are definitely on my christmas list, and I'm leaning toward the Options.

I'm sure 40" would be long enough for your socks.

knitqueen · 08-31-2006, 01:42 AM

Inox is nice too. They are my second favorite, next to Addis. I have not tried the Options though.

Andrea · 08-31-2006, 03:40 AM

KQ you simply must try the Options!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!