When do you need a cable longer than 24 inches?

[boo1]

I think I read that Magic Loop uses a long cable (32?) but just in general, when do you know, if the pattern doesn't specify, if 24 inches is long enough? When is it too long?

Thanks in advance!!!

[Knitting_Guy]

It just depends on how many stitches you need to work with. You couldn't do a sweater in the round on a 24" cable.

Magic Loop is easier on a longer cable as it doesn't put as much pressure on the cable/needle joints.

[Ingrid]

I've done sweaters on 24", but 29" is usually better. You need 16" for hats and collars. I like 24" for knitting flat or doing two circs, as well.

[Knitting_Guy]

I've done sweaters on 24", but 29" is usually better. You need 16" for hats and collars. I like 24" for knitting flat or doing two circs, as well.

Wow, that was either a small sweater or some seriously bunched stitches

[inkaholic]

I have a question that's probably sort of dumb, but I always thought that when you said 16" circulars, you meant that the cable itself was 16". Do you measure the needles also when determining the length? I have a few circulars of indeterminate origin lying around, and though I can use a needle gauge to find out their mm, I was wondering how I find out what cable length they're considered.

[Jan in CA]

You measure circulars from needle tip to needle tip.

I use 24's for two circ projects like socks and some sweaters, 16's for hats, , but I prefer 32 or 40 for magic loop.

[boo1]

I don't need anything longer than 24. And 16 for hats. Got it.

[knitncook]

I don't need anything longer than 24. And 16 for hats. Got it.

Probably not. Although now we are all going to challenge you to learn Magic Loop and knit a sweater!

[HollyP]

Although now we are all going to challenge you to learn Magic Loop and knit a sweater!

You know you want to!! All the cool kids are doing it

[Ingrid]

Wow, that was either a small sweater or some seriously bunched stitches

You can fit a lot of stitches when you're using Shetland wool--it's fingering weight.

Plus, when you're as sleek as I am. . . . .