The Ultimate Guide to Circular Knitting Needles
Circular needles are an essential tool for knitters of all skill levels, offering versatility and convenience for a variety of projects. But when you're first starting out, they can be a bit confusing.
This quick guide is a primer on circular needles, common (and lesser-known) ways to use them, and a few ways to test them out for yourself.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, understanding the ins and outs of circular needles can elevate your knitting game!
What are Circular Needles?
Circular needles consist of two needle tips connected by a flexible cord. They’re commonly used for knitting in the round, allowing you to create seamless projects like sweaters, cowls, and hats. They can also be used for flat knitting, particularly when working on larger projects with many stitches.
Types of Circular Needles
Fixed Circular Needles:
These have a permanent cord length and are great for knitters who primarily work on specific projects or sizes.
Interchangeable Circular Needles:
These come with removable cords, allowing you to choose the appropriate length for your project while using a single set of needle tips. Investing in a high-quality interchangeable set minimizes the need for multiple fixed needles and keeps your needle storage manageable.
Needle Materials
Circular needles are available in a variety of materials, including:
Wood: Smooth and warm to the touch, offering excellent grip for beginners.
Metal: Durable and slick, great for faster knitting.
Plastic: Lightweight and affordable.
The flexible cords also come in varying lengths to suit different project needs.
Here’s a quick tip: Always choose a cord length shorter than the circumference of your project to avoid stretching or crowding your stitches.
For instance, if your sweater has a 40-inch circumference, opt for a circular needle length of 24 or 32 inches, depending on your preference.
Cord Lengths & Common Uses
10": Ideal for crown shaping on hats, baby hats, and small sleeves. Often called “shorties,” these needles may feature two needle tips of equal length or one shorter tip for ergonomic comfort.
16": Commonly used for hats, baby garments, and smaller sleeves.
24": A versatile length, perfect for flat knitting sweaters and shawls.
32": Great for knitting sweaters in the round, flat-knit baby blankets, shawls, and the magic loop method.
40" and up: Best for larger projects like adult-sized blankets, oversized sweaters, and knitting socks or sleeves two at a time.
Reasons to Love Using Circular Knitting Needles
Seamless Knitting: Perfect for knitting in the round, eliminating the need for seams.
Reduced Wrist Strain: The cord supports the weight of your project, distributing it evenly and minimizing strain on your wrists.
Versatility for Large Projects: Accommodate larger stitch counts for projects like sweaters and blankets.
Fewer Lost Stitches: The cord helps keep your stitches secure, even when setting your project down mid-row.
Increased Speed: Circular needles can help you knit faster, especially when working in stockinette stitch.
Lesser Known Reasons to Love Using Circular Knitting Needles
Flat Knitting: Ideal for projects with a large number of stitches, such as wide shawls.
Tight Spaces: Compact design makes them perfect for knitting in confined areas like planes or cars.
Magic Loop Technique: Allows you to knit small circumferences like socks, gloves, and sleeves using a long circular needle.
Two-at-a-Time Knitting: Great for knitting socks, sleeves, or mittens simultaneously.
How to Use Circular Knitting Needles
Knitting in the Round:
Cast on your stitches and distribute them evenly.
Join the round carefully, ensuring your stitches aren’t twisted.
Place a marker to indicate the start of the round and begin knitting.
Magic Loop Method:
Use a circular needle with a longer cord (typically 29 inches or more).
Divide your stitches evenly between two sections of the cord and pull out the loop. Knit across one section, then rotate and knit the other.
Place a locking stitch marker on one side of the project to indicate the start of the round.
Helpful Tips When Using Circular Knitting Needles
Storage:
Invest in a storage system to keep your needles organized. Needle cases or labeled pouches make it easy to find the size you need without dealing with tangled cords.
Cord Length:
Always match your cord length to your project’s circumference to ensure smooth knitting and proper gauge.
High-Quality Needles:
While budget options exist, high-quality circular needles with smooth joins and durable cords can make your knitting experience much more enjoyable. I have a full review of the popular Lykke Driftwood Circular Needles here. My favorite circular knitting needles are the Addi Turbo Rockets and I plan to write a review for them soon!
