Should I skip DPN's all together?

Moxiemade · 07-04-2008, 06:12 PM

I've only been knitting a couple months, but I think I'm doing pretty good. I'm anxious to start working on some socks and am wondering if I should start right off with the magic loop method. I just ordered the set of harmony interchangeables off knitpicks and was going to order some harmony DPN's, but wonder if instead I should order some size 0-3 40" fixed circulars instead. That'd save me a good $35.

I guess what I'm trying to ask is whether it's absolutely essential to learn to knit with DPN's or if the magic loop (if I can master it) can take care of all my tubuar (is that a word?) knitting needs. If so I'll also look into buying the 40 and 47" cables for my interchangeables.

Thanks!

brendajos · 07-04-2008, 11:18 PM

Most sock patterns I have found are written for using DPNs but I have successfully managed to skip them and just used stitch markers to mark where i would have a different needle. As long as you can keep that straight, there is no need for DPNs if you don't want to use them. I have an insane supply of DPNs and use them so rarely I always have to remember where I was the last time I did need them so I can hunt them down. Seriously, I use them more for stitch holders than anything else.

Moxiemade · 07-04-2008, 11:51 PM

So you knit all your tubular knitting with the magic loop, no problems? Once you got the technique down, how does it compare in difficulty to knitting with DPN's?

Also, what is the best size cable for a magic loop? Thanks!

Jaxhil · 07-05-2008, 12:17 AM

You could certainly use Magic Loop for everything, I would think. But I think it would be a great idea to try DPNs. It's a bit unnerving at first, with all those pointy sticks hanging off~lol~ but once you get the hang of it, it's very empowering! It makes you feel like you can tackle anything

I actually find it very relaxing, but then I am very new to ML and so that may just be my personal experience.

Lots of people do like DPNs, though. I wouldn't discount them altogether!

brendajos · 07-05-2008, 12:20 AM

lol well no, I use 2 circs. I generally find it easier for me because it is more portable. DPNs are easy enough, but I just find using circs more convenient for me.

Moxiemade · 07-05-2008, 12:24 AM

Okay.

Nevermind.. I misread, LOL

KnittinMitchie · 07-05-2008, 12:48 AM

I started out doing socks on dpns and that is how i used to knit all of my socks. Once I got my Options I tried magic loop and found that I like it much better. BUT I still knit with my DPNs. DPNs are great for knitting fingers and thumbs on gloves and mittens.

Also I teach online classes and have DPNs class and a Magic Loop class. All of my classes are live. So if I screw up or just can't read the pattern that day you get to see it LOL.

redheadrachel · 07-05-2008, 12:55 AM

I think you should try several methods and see what you like best. I CAN do all my sock knitting on magic loop (CAN being the operative word) but to be honest, I'd do a whole lot less sock knitting!

DPNs are my FAAAAVORITE

Except right now I'm working on a hat and I have to use NINE dpns to fit all the stitches on, because I don't have a size 2 circ. lol But don't rule out dpns just yet!!!

Mike · 07-05-2008, 04:12 AM

It's not essential, it's personal choice.
I only like Magic Loop or circular to get a good ladder free base going, then I switch to DPNs, I find them much faster.

With socks I don't even need to get the base started. I only need that for hats and knitted on sleeves.

I like socks on DPNs because you don't need stitch markers.

Knitting_Guy · 07-05-2008, 04:17 AM

Personally I think DPNs are more trouble than they're worth, but it wouldn't hurt to try them.