Needles

[ladybe]

I am a newbe and would like suggestions on what type needles to purchase. Is there a knitting kit that contains all the needles? How do you suggest I proceed.

ladybe

[Lisa R.]

You might try searching around the site and finding threads on various needle types. It all boils down to personal preference. When I started out, I ran to Wal-mart to buy new needles for every project. I soon realized that either I had to buy a large variety of needles or limit my knitting to the needle sizes I had.

That's when I discovered Knit Picks' Options set. That was much cheaper than buying them individually--and I like them much better than what I was buying at Wal-mart.

There are several popular interchangeable needle sets. Check out threads on the various types.

[KnittingNinja]

For your needs, I would definitely suggest getting an interchangeable set. It's a great way to get a whole lot of needles without having to break the bank. The only downside to these it that they're pretty exclusively made out of plastic, which is fine for some people. Me, I love wooden needles (more friction so stitches don't slip off, plus they're less noticeable when going through security at the airport ), so I'm not a fan of interchangeable sets, but honestly it's all dependent on your preference. Just do what feels right to you, and eventually your preference as a knitter will shine through.

Good luck

[AngelaR]

I have a vast collection of needles, straights, long and short, circulars and all the various connector sizes there, then the DPNs, short and long... bamboo, nickle, aluminum... There is simply so much out there that you can quickly feel overwhelmed.

I would look at knitting supply sites, and look at the different options they offer, see what is in which kit, the prices, etc. Then come back here and do a quick search for the brand you've chosen, and then make your decision.

I would say that if you are a beginner, that you may want to try out the different types of needles, buying a cheap pair to see what you prefer. Some folks prefer nickle, others will not touch anything but bamboo, others love plastic or acrylic better than their own dogs. It's really up to you and what you prefer.

Be sure to let us know what you chose and what you're knitting with them.

[cftwo]

I added to my knitting needle collection a pair (or two) at a time, and that has worked well for me. It's also given me the option of trying out different types of needles and figuring out which ones work for which yarns and which ones just feel nice. It also spreads out the cost over time

[bsh8rc]

I second getting an interchangeable set. I had a bunch of straight needles I didn't really like and then I decided to take the plunge and get a knit picks set. To decided I bought one fixed set of both the Nickel and Harmony needles (they now have Zephers but didn't when I was choosing). Depending on which one you like best you get that set (or splurge and get both). They may look pricey now but you'll save money in the long run. You can knit flat on circular needles and I actually prefer to do so (it's easier on your wrists if your making a heavy project).

Good luck!

[Belphoebe]

I am an absolute Addi Turbo dpn addict. I can't seem to fall in love with circular needles, but use them when I have to. I like knitting socks and have found the Addi Turbo dpn's work really well for me. I am looking forward to checking out the Addi Clicks as soon as I can find a lys with them.

[Abby123]

Picking a favorite needles, is like picking a favorite food. It depends on the person. My favorites are the steel HiyaHiya.