Knitting is a hobby people of all ages can enjoy. Whether you are a seasoned knitter or a beginner, having the right tools is essential. Knitting needles are undoubtedly the most important.
As someone who has spent hours looking at different types of knitting needles, I understand how difficult it can be to choose. I have compiled all the necessary information below to help you choose the best knitting needles for your project.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Knitting Needles
Best Overall
Knitter’s Pride Dreamz Knitting Needles with 1 Artsiga Crafts Project Bag
The Knitter’s Pride Dreamz needles are made of strong laminated birch wood. The needles are beautiful and fun to use.
Premium Choice
Addi Click Rocket Lace Long Tip Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needle System
The Addi Click Rocket Interchangeable Circular Needle set includes 10 pairs of needle tips in a variety of sizes and three lengths of cords. The set comes with a compact case that makes it easy to store and transport the needles safely.
Great Value
36PCS Bamboo Knitting Needles Ser for Beginners
The BetyBedy Bamboo single pointed needles are lightweight, eco-friendly, and comfortable to use.
What are the Different Types of Knitting Needles
There are several types of knitting needles, each with their own unique characteristics and uses. Here are some of the most common types:
- Straight Needles
Straight needles are the most common type of knitting needles. A set consists of two straight, pointed needles of equal length. Straight knitting needles are commonly used for flat knitting, such as scarves, blankets, etc.
Circular needles are two straight needles connected by a flexible cable. They are used for knitting in the round. You often find circular needles recommended for projects such as hats, socks, mittens, etc. Circular needles can also be used for flat knitting by working back and forth on the cable.
Double pointed needles are short needles with points on both ends. They are often used for knitting small items in the round, such as socks, mittens, and sleeves.
- Interchangeable Needles
Interchangeable needles come in sets. The sets include needles with interchangeable cables. This allows you to customise the length of your needles depending on your project. Interchangeable needles can be used for both circular and flat knitting.
Bamboo needles are made from bamboo, which is lightweight, flexible, and warm to the touch. Bamboo needles are often preferred by knitters who find metal and plastic needles too slippery.
- Metal Needles
Metal needles are often made from aluminium. However, you can also find needles made from steel and other metals. Metal needles are strong, durable, and smooth.
- Plastic Needles
Plastic needles are and are lightweight and inexpensive. They are often preferred by knitters with arthritis or other hand conditions.
How to Keep Care of Your Knitting Needles
Taking proper care of your needles can help ensure they last for years. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure your needles remain in good condition and last for years.
Here are a few tips on how to care for your needles:
- Store your needles properly.
When you are not using your needles, do not shove them in a bag or a drawer. Instead, place them in a protective case or sleeve. This will help prevent the needles from getting scratched or damaged. Invest in a knitting needle case.
- Keep them clean.
After you are done using the needles, clean them. Wipe them down with a soft cloth to remove any dirt, oil, or debris. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
Keep your needles out of direct sunlight and away from extreme temperatures. High heat and cold can damage the needles, causing them to warp.
- Avoid bending and twisting.
Do not bend or twist your needles. Doing so can cause them to break or warp.
- Use needle protectors.
When you are not working with the needles, use needle protectors to cover the tips. This will help prevent the tips from becoming dull or damaged.
10 Best Knitting Needles of 2023
1. Knit Picks Double Pointed Wood Knitting Needle Set
This this set, Knit Picks offers a practical assortment of needles in a convenient vinyl storage case.
Why We Like It:
These needles come in sets of 6 in 7 different sizes. This makes the set a great option for a variety of projects.
- 7 Different Sizes
The set includes 7 different sizes of laminated birch needles. There are 42 needles that measure 4” in length.
- Mosaic Colours
The distinctive colours of each set of needles make finding the right needle size easier.
- Vinyl Storage Case
The vinyl storage case allows you to keep all your needles organised and safe in one place.
Pros:
- 7 Different sizes
- 42 Knit needles
- Laminated birch wood
- Beautiful colours
- Handy vinyl case
- Sharp tapered points
Cons:
- Sizes are not printed on the needles
- Break under too much pressure
2. Clover Takumi 9-Inch Single Point
The Clover Takumi needles are made of high-quality bamboo, which is lightweight, durable and eco-friendly.
Why We Like It:
These needles are perfect for a wide range of projects.
- High-quality Bamboo
The needles are made of high-quality bamboo which makes them lightweight and warm to the touch.
- 9” Length
The 9-inch length is suitable for a variety of projects. And the size is stamped directly on the needle for easy identification.
- Knobbed Ends
The knobbed ends help to ensure the stitches stay securely on the needles.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Eco-friendly
- Smooth surface
- Affordable
Cons:
- Tips are not as pointy as advertised
- Some types of yarn can stick to the cable
3. Fairycece Bamboo Knitting Needles Kits for Beginners
The Fairycee Bamboo knitting set comes in a range of sizes suitable for most knitting projects.
Why We Like It:
The bamboo needles are durable and long-lasting. They can be used for many projects without needing to replace them.
- 11 Pairs
This set includes 11 pairs of needles in 11 sizes. You can work on more than one project at once.
- Length
At 9.8 inches long, these knit needles are perfectly suited for midsize projects.
- Storage Bag
The storage bag is a convenient way to keep the set together and protected.
Pros:
- 11 Pairs
- Lightweight
- Storage Bag
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not great for lace
- People say they are rough and need sanded
4. Knitters Pride Dreamz Deluxe Interchangeable Needle Set
With this set, you can work on various projects. The needle sizes are easily distinguishable by their unique colour.
Why We Like It:
The Knitters Pride Dreamz needles have a snag-free joint and a smooth texture.
- Colour-coded
Each needle size is colour-coded, making it easy to quickly identify the right needle for the job.
- Comfortable
These needles are made from lightweight, polished wood with a smooth finish. They are comfortable to hold and easy to work with for extended periods of time.
- Stylish
The set comes in a beautiful fabric case that keeps the needles organised and protected. The colourful needles add a touch of style to your knitting project.
Pros:
- Hardened birch wood
- 9 Sizes
- Colour coded
- Smooth surface
- Sharp tips
- Size markers
- End caps
- Cord Keys
- Carrying case
Cons:
- Some people have reported issues attaching cables
- Needles may need sanded before use
5. Knit Picks Nickel Plated Metal Double Pointed Knitting Needles
The Knit Picks needles are a good choice for knitters who are looking for a versatile, high-quality set of needles.
Why We Like It:
These knit needles are made of nickel-plated metal. They are durable, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion.
- Durable Material
The nickel-plated metal construction of these needles is durable and long-lasting. This makes them a great investment for knitters.
- Smooth Surface
The smooth surface of the needles allows yarn to slide easily. This can reduce hand fatigue and make the knitting process faster.
- Sharp, Tapered Tips
Sharp, tapered tips make it easier to insert the needles into tight and small stitches.
Pros:
- Durable
- Strong
- Nickel-plated metal
- Sharp, tapered tips
- Hollow brass core
Cons:
- Can be too slippery for some users
6. Knitter’s Pride Dreamz Knitting Needles with 1 Artsiga Crafts Project Bag
The Knitter’s Pride Dreamz needles are made of laminated birch wood. It is stronger than ebony and rosewood.
Why We Like It:
The needles have an eye-catching colour that makes them fun to use.
Made from Laminated Birch Wood
The needles are lightweight and strong.
Brightly Coloured
The colours of the needles are bright and unique. This allows for easy identification of sizes.
Colour-coded
Bing colour coded, the sizes are easy to identify. The colours also add to the aesthetic appeal of the set.
Pros:
- Laminated birch wood
- Durable
- Variety of sizes
- Beautiful colours
- Polished surface
- Zippered case
- Project bag
Cons:
- Heavier than bamboo
7. ChiaoGoo Spin Bamboo Double Point Sock Knit Needle Set with Artsiga Project Bag
The ChiaoGoo needles are made of high-quality bamboo, which is durable, smooth, and warm to the touch. This makes them comfortable to hold and work with for long periods of time.
Why We Like It:
The 6” length is ideal for knitting small projects such as socks.
- Wide Range of Sizes
Each needle size includes 5 double point needles for a total of 25 needles. The set includes sizes: US 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, and 3 (Metric 2.25, 2.5, 2.75, 3.0, 3.25mm).
- Laser Imprinted
Every needle is laser-imprinted with its size, making it easy to identify.
- Zippered Storage Case
The bamboo needles come in an attractive, zippered case. Each pocket is labelled by size. The case also has a separate zippered compartment to store notions.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly
- Lightweight
- 5 Sets in different sizes
- 12 Stitch Markers
- Needle gauge
- Zippered fabric case
Cons:
- They can splinter
8. Knitter’s Pride-Karbonz Fixed Circular Needles
The Knitter’s Pride Karbonz circular needles are made from high-tech carbon fibre and nickel-plated brass. They are strong, flexible, and smooth.
Why We Like It:
These needles are easy to work with. They do not snag, allowing the yarn to slide smoothly.
- High Quality Material
The needles are made of carbon fibre and nickel-plated brass, which makes them extremely durable, lightweight, and strong.
- Light and Flexible Cord
The cord is light and flexible. It lays flat with no kinks.
- Even Joints
The even joints of these circular needles prevent any snags.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- High-tech carbon fibre
- Light and flexible cords
- Nickel-plated brass tips
- Even joints
- Smooth finish
Cons:
- Fixed Length
- Price
- Surface can be too slippery for some users
9. Addi Click Rocket Lace Long Tip Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needle System with Exclusive Blue Cords
The Addi Click Rocket Interchangeable Circular Needle set includes 10 pairs of needle tips, ranging in size from US 4 (3.5mm) to US 15 (10mm), and three different lengths of addi’s specially designed cords.
Why We Like It:
The set comes with a compact case that makes it easy to store and transport the needles. There are also additional cords and connectors for customisation.
- Versatile
The interchangeable needles come in a wide range of sizes, making it a great set for different types of projects.
- Durability
The needles are made from high-quality materials, including nickel-plated tips. This helps ensure they will last for years.
- Convenience
The set comes with a compact case that makes it easy to store the needles, cords, and connectors.
Pros:
- 8 Different sizes of needles
- 3 Pliable cords (24”, 32”, and 40”)
- Nickel-plated tips
- 1 Addi click connector
- Gold Addi heart pin
- Vibrant pink case
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons:
- Price
- They can be too slippery for beginners
10. 36PCS Bamboo Knitting Needles Ser for Beginners
The BetyBedy Bamboo single pointed bamboo needles are bleached and carbonized. They are lightweight, eco-friendly, and comfortable to use.
Why We Like It:
These knit needles are made from durable, lightweight bamboo. The set includes 36 needles in various sizes, making them a great value.
- 36 Individual Needles
This set includes 18 pairs of needles. They vary in size making the set a great choice for a wide variety of projects.
- Clearly Marked Sizes
The bamboo needles are marked with their sizes on the side. This makes it easy to quickly identify the correct size for your project.
- Beaded Caps
The beaded caps help prevent your stitches from sliding off the end of your needles.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Eco-friendly
- Wide range of sizes
- Durable
- Carbonized
- Comfortable to use
- Affordable
- Beaded Caps
- Cleary marked sizes
Cons:
- No US Sizing
- Can Splinter
Top 3 Picks for the Best Knitting Needles
Best Overall
Knitter’s Pride Dreamz Knitting Needles with 1 Artsiga Crafts Project Bag
The Knitter’s Pride Dreamz needles are made of strong laminated birch wood. The needles are beautiful and fun to use.
Premium Choice
Addi Click Rocket Lace Long Tip Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needle System
The Addi Click Rocket Interchangeable Circular Needle set includes 10 pairs of needle tips in a variety of sizes and three lengths of cords. The set comes with a compact case that makes it easy to store and transport the needles safely.
Great Value
36PCS Bamboo Knitting Needles Ser for Beginners
The BetyBedy Bamboo single pointed needles are lightweight, eco-friendly, and comfortable to use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Knitting Needles
How do I choose the right size knitting needle for my project?
There are a few things to consider when choosing needles. First, you should check the pattern for recommended sizes. Second, consider the weight of the yarn. Third, make a gauge swatch. Finally, take into account your personal knitting style.
What are the best knitting needles for beginners?
Straight needles made from bamboo or wood are generally considered the best choices for beginners. They are lightweight and easy to handle. They also have less slippery surfaces than metal and plastic needles, which helps to prevent dropped stitches.
Are wood or plastic knitting needles better?
Choosing between wood or plastic needles depends on personal preference and the project. Wooden needles are lightweight, warm to the touch, and have a natural feel. Additionally, the slightly rough surface helps keep stitches from slipping off.
On the other hand, plastic needles are smooth, which can help knitters knit faster. They are also less expensive than wooden needles.
What is the most durable knitting needle?
Metal needles are the most durable types of knitting needles. This is due to their strength and resistance to wear and tear. Metal needles are less likely to bend or break and can last for many years with proper care.
What are the different types of knitting needle styles?
Knitting needles come in different styles, including straight needles, circular needles, double-pointed needles, interchangeable needles, cable needles, Tunisian needles, and afghan hooks. Each style has its own benefits and can be chosen depending on personal preference and the requirements of the pattern.
Can I use any type of knitting needle?
The type of knitting needle you use can impact the final result of your project. For example, different materials can have varying levels of slipperiness, which can affect your tension. Additionally, different needle styles are better suited for different types of knitting techniques.
Using the best knitting needles can make all the difference in your knitting experience.
Choosing the right knitting needles can be tricky at first. By considering your preference, knitting style, and project, you can select the best knitting needles.
I hope this article has helped you make an informed decision. Investing in a few sets of the best knitting needles will help to ensure you always have the right tool at your fingertips.