How to choose your knitting needles?

How to choose the size of knitting needles?

Knitting is a more and more fashionable activity. Making your own mohair sweater, snood or hat has become a trendy creative hobby. Activity accessible to beginners, you can learn to knit in a very short time.
To start your creation, you will of course need balls of wool , but also to bring needles.

Right needle? Circular needle? Which knitting needles to choose to start knitting? There are different sizes, materials and diameters.

The different types of knitting needles

• Straight needles

Single point needles are the most frequently used.
The two needles are identical. One side is pointed to allow the stitches to be made, the other end has a ball so that the stitches do not escape.

• Circular needles

The circular needles are joined by a flexible, nylon thread, more or less long (from 60 cm to about 1.5 m).
But circular doesn't just mean knitting in the round. Large pieces can normally be knitted flat because they allow a large number of stitches to be cast on.
No more assembling parts! The circular needles allow you to create a pattern, like large shawls or throws, in one go!

• Double pointed needles

There are also double pointed needles. They have points at each end and are ideal for making collars, sleeves ...
They are usually shorter and reserved for small, seamless items, such as socks or gloves.

• Cable needles

As the name suggests, cable needles are used to make all kinds of cables. They have two points and a curvature in the middle, where the stitches can be put on hold safely, without worry of slipping, during knitting.

The material of knitting needles: advantages / disadvantages

• Aluminum / metal needles

Experienced knitters love them because they optimize the slip of the stitches. They allow you to knit quickly.
Only downside, they are a bit noisy.

• Plastic needles

If you are wondering which needle to choose to start knitting , then go for these instead .
Their lightness offers real comfort of use, and they are less expensive.
The downside is that they wear out over time.

• Wooden or bamboo needles

These needles are more expensive, but have a long life.
In addition, wood or bamboo is a light and very pleasant material for knitting. Ideal for beginner knitters.
Be careful, however, if the wood is of poor quality, beware of splinters which can damage the wool.

Depending on your tastes and preferences, it's up to you to choose the needles that suit you.

Which size of knitting needle to choose?

• The length

There are different lengths of knitting needle. The average is 40 cm, but they can measure between 20 and 60 cm.
The longer they are, the more we will be able to put stitches on them.

• The diameter

It's that little number engraved on your needles. It is generally chosen according to the size of the thread with which you want to make the work. This information is noted on the balls.
Some will tend to tighten their stitches more and others to loosen them too much. And that whatever the diameter.
You must therefore choose your needle according to the type of work you want to make. If you are unsure, refer to the labels of the balls. They are a mine of information.