I am an Addi Turbo fixed needle fan and agree with your method of knitting and sharp needles. I knit just how you explained and even the Addi Turbo Rockets and ChiaoGoo needles are problematic due to the sharp points. This was very informative and will hopefully save people lots of expense. I frankly do not love interchangeable needles, I only own one set, because with my yarn twist I've had some come unscrewed in the middle of my knitting.
In the US here. My favorites are the red lace chiaogoo. I just bought a set of interchangeable shorties. I am knitting my first sleeves with them and they are so much easier on my hands. They have great cables and the joins are very smooth.
It was so easy to sit here and enjoy a chat with you, Kate! I love this format and all of your episodes. I think it was great the way you specifically talked about why you liked (or no longer liked) a particular needle. Thanks for this!
I love my Chiaogoo interchangebles and was surprised to hear you say you find the cable to be rigid. I wish you had talked more about the cables of your many sets, since that seems to be a factor for you. I have only two sets of interchangeables: one wood (KnitPicks) and one steel (the aforementioned Chiaogoos). Plus I still have an assortment of fixed straight and circulars from 40 years ago when I used to knit. Like you, I usually knit my flat pieces on circs. However, at this very moment, I'm using a thick sturdy 14" straight needle to add a button band to an already assembled sweater which has quite a bit of weight to it. They support the weight better than any circular would. It's great to have options!!
Good evening Kate. I couldn't make my cuppa fast enough when I saw my alert for this. I knit my first item at the age of ten (leg warmers I'm afraid but it was 1981) and that's when my search for the perfect needles for me began. I've just turned 50 and I'm still searching. Seeking the perfect needles, it's the knitter's curse. Thoroughly enjoyed having a coffee with you. Thank you. All the best.
Hi Kate--- Thanks for going over your knitting needles and what you think of them. Needle sets are not cheap so it helps to hear from a fellow knitter about their assessment of different needle makers. Take care and thanks!
Thank you Kate. I have a vast assortment of “fixed” circular needles. Use these and find I do gravitate to the bamboo quite a bit. I do find these are aging( like getting old... like me).... but tragedy did strike when my 32 inch circular broke on a Stephen West Exploration Shawl. I could not look at it... I hid it under our daughters pillow in her bedroom as she was in College. 3 months later I did pick it up with a new needle, and ripped back considerably to finish. I now have gotten into 2 socks at a time on one circular needle , Addi. Enjoying the knit with these. Take care. Love the music!
Very useful thank you. Just started knitting again. My knowledge is basic though & my how things have moved on. I only had mainly straight needles. Everyone is on circular. If I improve I will definitely buy a set 😀
Really enjoyed the first of your new miniseries Kate. I have a chiaoGoo set of needles and had the same issue with laddering, until they started producing an extremely thin, flexible cable that is an absolute dream to use. real game changer for me. I am a thrower also. What I appreciated about your podcast was the take home message. A knitter really has to understand the mechanics of how they knit in order to determine the right needle for themselves. Sounds simple, but it can be a difficult, personal process. For example, we are both throwers....but I suspect our mechanics are different. That's what I love about knitting! Our style is our style and yet we can all produce incredible fabrics. xx
Thank you Kate I have really appreciated you talking through the needles. I am at the ‘don’t know where to start’ process. I use Symphonie straight needles and love them. Because of that I bought interchangeable ones but found them difficult because of the join. I’ve bought a Zing to try which I love, and have just ordered a Hiya hiya sharp. I thought I’d try out different fixed ones before I take the plunge with a set of interchangeable. Your episode has helped enormously 😊
Lovely vlog! Loved hearing about your experiences with the needles. I was just looking through some of my fixed circular and choosing not to use certain ones because they are plastic. My husband asked why I keep them if I never use them! Why do we knitters keep the needles we never choose to use! Ha! Am trying Lykke dp needles right now and LOVE them. Thanks again!
Thank you Kate. As you talked about knitpro I kept thinking they look exactly like my knitters pride. I googled it and now realize that they are the same needles, just called knitters pride here in Canada. I do love them. I just recently found you and your channel is great .
Thank you for sharing your needle collection. I enjoyed your review of each set. Would you consider talking about the yarns you have used: favorites for certain projects and how it wears over time? I am so cautious to invest in a sweaters quantity of yarn only to have it look pilled and ragged in a year.
I'm a thrower too. In the past few months I've started teaching myself to use my index finger to put the yarn over the needle and not move my entire arm. I was a slower knitter and was getting some repetitive motion injuries. Teaching myself to "throw" with my finger seems to be helping. Thank you for sharing your views on these different needle sets.
I’m also a thrower and I’ve tried to do the index finger thing like you but i find it really awkward. Instead I’ve been trying the Norwegian style of knitting as used by Arne & Carlos, they have a RUclips channel. I can see that the Norwegian way is a really efficient way of knitting so I hope that I will get used to it but I keep forgetting to put the yarn in my left and I am not very good at doing the purl stitch!
I purchased the knit pro zings (Knitters Pride here in the U.S.) shortly after your review and I love them. A while ago I purchased the Chiaogoo needles but they were too sharp for me so I returned them. I enjoy your videos.
Oh my I think we must knit the same because those Hiya Hiya needles kill me too, I also push my needle down... LOL Funny. I love the knit pros too! Glad to see you are well, stay safe. Big Hugs.
Thanks for such an informative vlogs Kate. I seem to be gravitating back to fixed circular needles since my arthritis is a little worse at 73, I am finding changing the needles very fiddly, but it’s not stopping me knitting!
Hi Kate, that was very interesting. I have Knit pro symphony needles which I thought were great until I came to try magic loop, when I found the cable had far too much memory and made knitting a struggle. I found Hyahya, and love the flexible cable, but like you, find the sharps really painful...Small circulars are no good for my hands so for sock knitting I go back to my trusty Addi DPNs. I must look for the Hyahya steels, as I think they would solve my magic loop problems. Thank you.
Thank you Kate a very informative. I am also a thrower with the same push down habit that you have ... I am so glad that circular needles were invented but idea ever and I use magic loop when ever I can. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Really helpful. I, too, find the wooden Knitpro interchangeables a bit tricky to move stitches around the join. I think the needles i love best ar the Zings, especially for socks. I have just bought a set of Prym Ergonomics dpn, which are triangular, so let’s see what they are like!
I'm recently returned to knitting after several decades, and still exploring the range of circular needles available. I like bamboo for its grip, but I had a cheap set break on me recently. I replaced it with a Chiaogoo, but find there is a bit of catch at the join. I have one set of KnitPro wooden tips, and another of a red material that is smooth yet grippy. I'd love to buy a set simply for the ease of storage, but here in NZ, where everything is imported, there's very little coming in and most sets are sold out! I found your neede comparisons most helpful, Kate. I'll probably try a few more KnitPros in differnt sizes, and buy an empty case one day to store them in.
Have you tried Kinki Amibari needles by SeeKnit? I have posted a longer response upthread, but these are now my favorite bamboo/wood needles. The needles have a bit of grip but still slick enough too knit fast and comfortable. The needle have a sharp end - but not too sharp that it splits yarn eevn with laceweight yarn held triple. The join is SUPER SMOOTH and on a swivel cord.
Interesting comparison! I have a mix of needles of different brands. Wooden. Bamboo. Steel. Plastic. Plastic covered steel.some were really cheap but working well. The main thing is, as you said, your style of knitting and the wool. I am a continental knitter and knit medium lose. I usually use non superwash wool for sweaters, sockwool, cotton. I love addi needles. I found they are exactly time for me. I use the blunt ones, the pointed ones, fixed to the cable or the click system. No problems for me. I must buyore separate cables and a few more tips because all my addi needles are in use ( WIPs). So really find out what is the best for you. So any comparison other knitters give is a super background information to decide on your system. It will help to save money. Thank you, Kate, for your thoughts.
I must knit exactly like you, because I have the same issues with unscrewing tips and sore fingers. I use chiaogoo reds. Think I may try knitpro zings. Thanks for this thorough review!
Hi there. I'm a new subscriber. I love crochet but I also do knit (advanced). I am just like you and I've learnt new things from you today because I also love the KnitPro and too true - I do push my work forward and can't work with the sharp points. I've also heard Inga Skeie (Knitting Traditions) mention Lykke needles. I love the wood. I live in SOuth Africa, Cape town so the weather is very hot. even our winters are hot and not that cold. So I don't work with mohair - I'm absolutely allergic. It is so so scratchy. I've been recommended other 100% wool that is not scratchy to the skin because I love love the look of the mohair, such a pity that I can't wear it - well, not on my skin for sure. Have a super blessed February. x
Nice informational podcast Kate. I have watched you knit and we are very similar. I don't tension my yarn. I started out my first project on wooden straights to knit a scarf. I quickly moved on to Chiao Goo and have two full sets and many fixed Chiao Goo. They just work good for me.
What a good Time with you!! Thanks for your sharing your expérience about needles ☺️ My favorite are knitpro in bambou. 😀 But so many I never try yet (like knitpro in métal, or hya hya, or barely Chiagoo). The same than you, I dislike sharp needles, because I am always pushing the needles with my index finger... 😉 I wish you a great day !!! 😊😊
Coming in late watching , enjoyed listening to your view on all the various needle sets and how they work out for you with your style of knitting and how they react with different fibers
Morning Kate, thank you for all your information on needles. I’ve just got back into knitting again. I’ve always used straight needles , but want to try some circulars. I think there might be some knit pros on my wish list from now. Thanks again Doreen.
Thank you! It's good the get an opinion from another thrower. I haven't had a chance to try most of the sets you review here but I'd like to. I have a full set of ChiaoGoo needles and I love them! I do have a nice set of Lykke double pointed. They are a dream to knit with.
What a lovely podcast, Kate. My DPNs for sock knitting are Zings. I love addi needles, but do not enjoy the interchangeable locking mechanism. One of the needles always comes undone. So, I am largely sticking to my other addis for knitting in the round and I do have one of their long flex stixs for hats, sleeves and such. I will try to add a few more flex stix in various sizes as my budget allows. My main go to are my Lykke needles of which I have an interchangeable and a DPN (larger sizes) set. Needles make all the difference and are such a very personal purchase
This was very enjoyable. I got such a laugh out of it as you and I could not disagree more about needles. I am always looking for the longest tips and the sharpest points. I can't stand Addi needles of any persuasion. Then all of a sudden we were on the same page -Lykke! I have the longer tipped interchangeable circs and the double points. They are the only wooden needles I use and I LOVE them. My only quibble with them is I wish the sets had more smaller gauge needles and fewer larger ones. And I still love them!
Enjoyed that, interesting.....Knitpro wooden needles were my first interchangeable needles too and I do like them still, the thing I like best about Zing is the colours for the different sizes. I’ve tried the buying singular needles and then went for the chiaogoo. Thanks Kate
I just went back to this fantastic video - thank you so much for your help, my lovely. I haven't knitted in ages and decided to knit a jumper again. I remembered that I was never quite comfortable with the metal needles that I had and how they put me off at times. I have now ordered the KnitPro set from your top 3 and I'm ridiculously excited! 🤗 Have a lovely festive weekend and thank you. ♥️
@@HawthornCottageCraft Thank you, I feel like a proper curtain twitcher today, waiting for the post ... 😉 I shall re-watch your lovely video with all your jumpers soon (even though I should keep it really simple). 🌻 I'm so grateful for your videos about needles, yarns etc., I can't thank you enough. ♥️
I had the same issue with my Addi lace interchangeable needle set-I had it come undone on several projects. I love the chicago goo red lace and Lykke fixed. I have yet to try the interchangeable. Thanks for the info.
Thank you Kate for your needle roundup it was really interesting . I was taught to knit by my grandmother using straight needles many moons ago. I always held the right needle under my arm to anchor it. I knit like that for years but I’m now a circular needle convert. I now use Knitpro zings, Chiaogoo and the Lykke sets. I also use the Knitpro Zing DPNs.
Thank you Kate for such an interesting chat on needles. I have always had an issue with stocking stitch in that my purl row is always a little looser than my knit row, hence making an easy seen row mark on the garment. So decided to start using the circular needle and have found it much more even and really more enjoyable knitting in the round! I have only just started my collection and so enjoyed hearing your likes and will certainly try your recommendations. Thank you 😊
Hi Kate : it was fun to see your various needle sets and to know that we have some in common. I recently purchased (as in 2021) the Knit Pro Symphonies which arrived from Amazon in the UK and that made them even more special for me. I seem to favor wood or bamboo the most because they feel light on my hands and I enjoy ‘natural’ materials. Might be fun to do a similar episode about yarns Or to hear more about how you progressed in your garment knitting Which is something I would love to do for myself.
Thanks Kate!,!THAT WAS GREAT!!! VERY informative,,,,I an a thrower too!!! Don't really have a set of needles,,,Have odd ones and a few cables of the knit picks wooden needles,,,,very much like the knit pro wood ones,,, Like my 9 inch Chicagoo for socks the best,,,,and just learned majic loop so trying out a few different needles,,, Very helpful,,,, Elaine🏠🏠🏠🏠🏠
I don’t get on with straight needles for the same reason you do ! Then I found interchangeable needles and I love them. Knit pro symphony and hiya hiya sharp are my favourites. Always fun to try out a new set though 🤣 Love Cherry x
You might be interested to know, especially new circular knitters who are considering purchasing an interchangeable set of needless, that Drops Yarns also make a set of metal interchangeable. They are very competitively priced and will also interchange with Knit Pro needles (they may even be made by the same company)
So interesting to hear your take on the different needles. I’ve been gradually switching to all fixed ChiaoGoo lace circular knitting needles. They suit the bulk of my current projects. I bought some HiyaHiya sharps and did not like them at all-like Knitting torture. There’s a difference between sharp and poking holes in my fingers. Fairly new to your channel. I started with your Christmas vlogmas and now I consider you a comfortable friend that I’ve never met in person, but for whom I look forward to each video you post. You inspire me to make my own knitted sweater. I’ve made enough baby sweaters. Time for a grown woman sweater for me now. I’m in Southern Maryland USA.
This was interesting and very helpful. I'm a great fan of ChiaoGoo's but am looking for a set of wooden needles to add to my collection. I will investigate the Lykke driftwoods. Thank you!
It was great to see all your needle sets. I have only ever bought cheap needles from E bay, one set of bamboos and one set of metal. Both sets have lovely soft cables but are not very pointed. Needless to say I am very happy with these because obviously I haven’t tried any of the others you talk about. I am frightened to spend so much money on a set of needles and then decide I must have a different set, because they may be better!!! It was very informative to hear your pros and cons for each set which will help me make up my mind. Could well be a birthday present for myself, thank you. Keep safe x
Thank you Kate. I was looking forward to this podcast, and it was great to hear your thoughts. I think you and I have similar knitting styles. I have found the same issues with the Hiya Hiya sharps and do enjoy my Lykke driftwood set. So interesting to hear your thoughts concerning addis and chai goos and their cables. Thanks again!
Very educational podcast! Thank you. I have the Lykke interchangeable needles and love them. Only complaint is that the size written on them is small and difficult to read. But super easy and comfortable to knit with. Would never go back to metal needles.
Thank you for this needle chat, I was struck by our similar path to interchangeable sets. I have 3 sets, and they are in constant rotation... Lykke Driftwood, Chiagoo red lace, and Chiagoo blue lace shorties. Agree, it's a significant investment, but I can't imagine not having them now 🙂
Thanks for the great review, especially because I'm a throw knitter too (thought I was the only one). Haven't been success ful learning another style. I bought my first set, chiagoos, and learned magic loop but also had issues with ladders. I look forward to trying some of your recommendations once I know I'm fully committed to knitting again.
Thank you Kate, that was so enjoyable sitting with my cuppa. I am on the second sock of my first ever pair and using knit pro. I had the same problem as you with the hiya hiya, I did not realize they made some less sharp! I am not a confident knitter but hoping to attempt more detailed patterns this year. Thank you for sharing your experience with knitting needles, it has certainly helped me. Hope you are managing lots of knitting coffee breaks. Look forward to your next podcast. Take care.
Thank you for your info. I am toying with the idea of buying a set. I have so many but it never fails that I need one size or type hat I don't have! I love working with addi needles but the Lykke set is beautiful.
I liked this video because I can relate! I have way too many needles that were always bought on sale and met the need/and skill level at the time of purchase. I recently purchased Prym ergonomic DPN’s that Arne & Carlos talk about. I love the way they feel, except that they are a bit long and one snapped while knitting (I don’t put a lot of pressure). The other issues is the sizing. They list US 1 at 2.50mm instead of 2.25 -so my gauge is too loose. I’m hoping Prym corrects the sizing. I tried the Signature DPN’s, but returned them because nothing special and too expensive. My go-to now are Karbonz DPN’s for socks -larger sizes are to too heavy. Looking forward to your next podcast. Best wishes!
Thank you for this review. I knit in exactly the same way that you do and my finger is constantly sore from pushing the needle. I have been using Chiaogoo needles but have just ordered some Hiya hiya steele ......can’t wait to try them!
Love this new segment of your podcasts Kate. I also love my Lykke needles and use them for most of my projects. I have a set of the Addi clicks too and I just find them hard to “click” into place. I just got them last year, so I’m going to keep trying.
Hiya Hiya Steels are my favourite too. Just the right amount of slip, not too sharp, but I mostly love the way the joins swivel. I twist as I knit, so find the way fixed cable joins move quite annoying. I do like a fixed circular ChiaGoo red lace for magic looping socks though. The sturdier cable helps with the stability. Although I prefer dpns for socks.
Like you, I always found straight needles cumbersome and awkward. I am a circ needle user only. I discovered Lykke needles a couple of years ago in my LYS. I have never looked back, and now only use my Lykke needles. I also crochet, and I now have an entire set of hooks in Lykke driftwood. The owner of my LYS pronounced them "Likey" rhymes with mikey. I don't know if that's correct, but there ya go. I am an English "picker" my hand never leaves the needle. Subscribed!
Hello Kate. I too found the Addi click needles coming apart in my knitting but I do like the Addi sock wonder. I haven't such an extensive range of needles but I agree, Knitpro are lovely to use.
What a great needle collection. I have several straight needles that do not get used but it is disheartening to think of throwing everything away. I also have many, many circulars that I do not use because they are the very old Aero brand with the very stiff plastic cord that isn’t very flexible at all. They are really only good for wide straight projects. It would be nice we could create our own personalized set of needles for the sizes we use. I find most that sets have several needle sizes that I never use.
My needle progession is very similar to yours and now I'm using Chiaogoo Red Lace circulars, I find that with Zings I was having to push the stitches over the join which frustrated me. I have found that if I have a sore finger from knitting, a piece of fabric plaster can help 'support' the skin from all the prodding and poking of the needles.
Very good discussion about your knitting needles. I have found lots of inexpensive knitting needles at a local thrift store and at a local craft store with a coupon and also on ebay.
Love my Lyyke needles, too! Although my Hiya-Hiya sharps are my favorite for lace knitting. Hope your birthday is special...I think you mentioned a few episodes ago it was upcoming.
Good afternoon Kate, hope you're well, thank you for this podcast, even though I have been knitting for over 60 years it's only the past couple of months that I have started knitting with circular needles, I had bought a cheap bamboo set a few years ago but just couldn't get the hang of them, I have been looking for at the different makes to buy some decent ones but just didn't know what to look for, I use bamboo needles for 30 years because I have arthritis in my hands and arms, but I will definitely have a look at the knit pro and hiya hiys ones. Stay safe stay well, hugs from Scotland xx
@@HawthornCottageCraft it really does help, I just wish I had started using them years ago, just too stuck in my old ways lol, and it's mainly baby shawls and adults arans that I knit, xx
Thanks Kate! I also find Hiya Hiya Sharps painful depending on the size I’m using - plenty of holes in my finger, ouch 😕 I do like the flexibility of the cables tho and prefer these for hat and sleeve knitting. Also have a set of Chiagoo’s which I love. When I can afford a new set I’ll have a look at the Hiya Hiya steels as an alternative - thanks again!
I’m a thrower and have previously had injuries with the Hiya Hiya sharps. I too have the Lykke set and love them. I use the Chiaogoo 9 inch circulars for socks.
Thanks Kate, this was very helpful. I have just started considering investing in a set of interchangeable needles but beginning to realise how many brands there are out there and that I need to do a lot more research! I have mostly old straight metal needles (some of which were my mothers), with the odd pair of bamboo and circular needles from when needed for a certain pattern. As you say maybe an idea to try them out singly first before investing in a set. Thanks again for sharing the information.
Hi Kate. Thank you so much for the review. A lot of excellent information. I went to Lykke site and saw this so I thought I'd share. Just about every knitter knows by now that the Norwegian word for happiness is lykke (pronounced luu-kah).
This is helpful. I have the knitpro set which i love and i think i will stick with them. The only thing i have fancied is the cords without memory but need to see if they would fit on my knit pros. X
Nice video! I love my HiyaHiya Steel and use them all the time. I also have a few pairs of sharp tips and find them useful for lace knitting. My HiyaHiya set came both with the rubber grippy-thingy and a key 🧐 Also HiyaHiya makes wonderful DPNs which are a delight to use for sock knitting. When it comes to Zings I have them as straights which I like using for flat knit pieces. I tried wooden needles but sold the whole set just after two weeks as I found them way too slow and grippy. I’ve heard that Lykke needles are fully compatible with knit pro and are produced in the same factory. It’s all so confusing.
I use the needles from Clover called Takumi needles. Love the bamboo feel of them. I have been knitting since the late 1960s. My first interchangeable sets were by Boye. I wore one set out and actually bought a second set. I much prefer bamboo needles though then those which are metal.
I am aware the making of the video is some time ago…., I don’t really expect an answer but I am confused that the HyaHya needles seem to be less expensive than the ChiaoGoo needles. In my country it is the other way around…? Here the HyaHya are the most expensive needles. Well, not really there are some …. Starting with an S…, I can’t remember, but for one pair of those you pay around 60 Euros here in my country…, so for me nothing to think about🤷🏼♀️. Just ordered the ChiaoGoo set. Fingers crossed that I like them. Loved this video. Very sympathetic, very interesting! Thank you💕
Have you tried Kinki Amibari needles by SeeKnit? I also have CG and own both sets in stainless and bamboo. I really like the stainless, but find that with certain yarns they are almost too fast and I need a little grip. I am currently using coned yarns from ColourMart and these have a bit of oil making them extra slippery. I did swatch with both CG stainless and bamboo and the bamboo felt nicer as I did not feel I had to grip my needles too hard. Still, the points on the CG bamboo needles were a little too sharp. I had heard excellent things about KA needles, but they are not as common as other brands. Anyway, I decided to give them a shot after someone else I knew purchased them and raved about them. KA comes in a light bamboo and a darker bamboo. The darker bamboo is hardened even more. Let me just tell you that after trying them out, there are my favorite bamboo/wood needles. The needles have a bit of grip but still slick enough too knit fast and comfortable. The needle have a sharp end - but not too sharp that it splits your yarn. I am using laceweight yarn and hold them triple. The join is SUPER SMOOTH - I was surprised a grippie or even t-pin is not needed. It's a swivel cord. I was so impressed by them I am going to buy more of the dark needles - for back up and to have the larger set. The downside is the company is not in most LYS, but they do sell direct from Japan on Etsy. I'm not sure if they use a time capsule, but their shipping is blazing fast. I assure you I do not work for them. I have a give card and will use it to load up on all the sizes and accessories I do not have. Between Chiaogoo Stainless and Kinki Amibari, I am all set.
Thank you for sharing your honest opinion. I love my Zing needles! They are, to me, the perfect slickness for acrylic and cotton yarns (I don't and can't knit with wool.) They are not too slick and not too grippy. I have had issues with the cords a few times and I haven't been able to contact the company directly, but have dealt with yarn shops who were helpful. (I'm in the US, Michigan.) I also throw and have hurt my left index finger on sharp tips...KnitPicks short needles...because of the sharp tips. I think about getting another set, but they are pricey. With your speaking so highly of your Zings, I think I'll stick with them. I've enjoyed them for a number of years now.
Thank you for the review! I have been leaning towards lykee as my first set and wanted to get many opinions on them. I am still a beginner knitter but hope to continue with it for the rest of my life and get to an advanced level. Wanted to say your jumper is gorgeous!
Hi. I got into knitting in late 2019 and I know where you're coming from. My best advice is to buy the best you can afford. I have a set of Lykke needles, but don't like the cord since I started using Chiaogoo. Knitter's Pride released Mindful Collection and their cords are like the CG memory-free cord. If you plan on knitting a lot of sweaters or using DK/Worsted, you could get by with small set of CG and buy a few needles here and there. I got my CG sets at a great price so it made sense to purchase the complete sets at that time.
I am an Addi Turbo fixed needle fan and agree with your method of knitting and sharp needles. I knit just how you explained and even the Addi Turbo Rockets and ChiaoGoo needles are problematic due to the sharp points. This was very informative and will hopefully save people lots of expense. I frankly do not love interchangeable needles, I only own one set, because with my yarn twist I've had some come unscrewed in the middle of my knitting.
In the US here. My favorites are the red lace chiaogoo. I just bought a set of interchangeable shorties. I am knitting my first sleeves with them and they are so much easier on my hands. They have great cables and the joins are very smooth.
Yes, I love my ree lace chiaogoo. But I did get a couple fixed chiaogoo first, and the cable on those is much stiffer
Me too! Love red lace chiao goo interchangeables. I also have the addi clicks and find that they snag the yarn at the join.
It was so easy to sit here and enjoy a chat with you, Kate! I love this format and all of your episodes. I think it was great the way you specifically talked about why you liked (or no longer liked) a particular needle. Thanks for this!
I love my Chiaogoo interchangebles and was surprised to hear you say you find the cable to be rigid. I wish you had talked more about the cables of your many sets, since that seems to be a factor for you. I have only two sets of interchangeables: one wood (KnitPicks) and one steel (the aforementioned Chiaogoos). Plus I still have an assortment of fixed straight and circulars from 40 years ago when I used to knit. Like you, I usually knit my flat pieces on circs. However, at this very moment, I'm using a thick sturdy 14" straight needle to add a button band to an already assembled sweater which has quite a bit of weight to it. They support the weight better than any circular would. It's great to have options!!
Good evening Kate. I couldn't make my cuppa fast enough when I saw my alert for this.
I knit my first item at the age of ten (leg warmers I'm afraid but it was 1981) and that's when my search for the perfect needles for me began.
I've just turned 50 and I'm still searching. Seeking the perfect needles, it's the knitter's curse.
Thoroughly enjoyed having a coffee with you. Thank you. All the best.
Hi Kate--- Thanks for going over your knitting needles and what you think of them. Needle sets are not cheap so it helps to hear from a fellow knitter about their assessment of different needle makers. Take care and thanks!
Thank you Kate. I have a vast assortment of “fixed” circular needles. Use these and find I do gravitate to the bamboo quite a bit. I do find these are aging( like getting old... like me).... but tragedy did strike when my 32 inch circular broke on a Stephen West Exploration Shawl. I could not look at it... I hid it under our daughters pillow in her bedroom as she was in College. 3 months later I did pick it up with a new needle, and ripped back considerably to finish. I now have gotten into 2 socks at a time on one circular needle , Addi. Enjoying the knit with these. Take care. Love the music!
Very useful thank you. Just started knitting again. My knowledge is basic though & my how things have moved on. I only had mainly straight needles. Everyone is on circular. If I improve I will definitely buy a set 😀
Really enjoyed the first of your new miniseries Kate. I have a chiaoGoo set of needles and had the same issue with laddering, until they started producing an extremely thin, flexible cable that is an absolute dream to use. real game changer for me. I am a thrower also. What I appreciated about your podcast was the take home message. A knitter really has to understand the mechanics of how they knit in order to determine the right needle for themselves. Sounds simple, but it can be a difficult, personal process. For example, we are both throwers....but I suspect our mechanics are different. That's what I love about knitting! Our style is our style and yet we can all produce incredible fabrics. xx
Thank you Kate I have really appreciated you talking through the needles. I am at the ‘don’t know where to start’ process. I use Symphonie straight needles and love them. Because of that I bought interchangeable ones but found them difficult because of the join. I’ve bought a Zing to try which I love, and have just ordered a Hiya hiya sharp. I thought I’d try out different fixed ones before I take the plunge with a set of interchangeable. Your episode has helped enormously 😊
Lovely vlog! Loved hearing about your experiences with the needles. I was just looking through some of my fixed circular and choosing not to use certain ones because they are plastic. My husband asked why I keep them if I never use them! Why do we knitters keep the needles we never choose to use! Ha! Am trying Lykke dp needles right now and LOVE them. Thanks again!
I’m with ya Kate! Those Hiya Hiya Sharps are painful for me too! Great review of needles! Thank you!
Thank you Kate. As you talked about knitpro I kept thinking they look exactly like my knitters pride. I googled it and now realize that they are the same needles, just called knitters pride here in Canada. I do love them. I just recently found you and your channel is great .
Thank you for sharing your needle collection. I enjoyed your review of each set. Would you consider talking about the yarns you have used: favorites for certain projects and how it wears over time? I am so cautious to invest in a sweaters quantity of yarn only to have it look pilled and ragged in a year.
That will definitely go on the list. Thank you😊
I'm a thrower too. In the past few months I've started teaching myself to use my index finger to put the yarn over the needle and not move my entire arm. I was a slower knitter and was getting some repetitive motion injuries. Teaching myself to "throw" with my finger seems to be helping. Thank you for sharing your views on these different needle sets.
I’m also a thrower and I’ve tried to do the index finger thing like you but i find it really awkward. Instead I’ve been trying the Norwegian style of knitting as used by Arne & Carlos, they have a RUclips channel. I can see that the Norwegian way is a really efficient way of knitting so I hope that I will get used to it but I keep forgetting to put the yarn in my left and I am not very good at doing the purl stitch!
I purchased the knit pro zings (Knitters Pride here in the U.S.) shortly after your review and I love them. A while ago I purchased the Chiaogoo needles but they were too sharp for me so I returned them. I enjoy your videos.
Oh my I think we must knit the same because those Hiya Hiya needles kill me too, I also push my needle down... LOL Funny. I love the knit pros too! Glad to see you are well, stay safe. Big Hugs.
Love the begining with the coffee being made the music is just haunting and so beautiful Cheers from Down Under
Thanks for such an informative vlogs Kate. I seem to be gravitating back to fixed circular needles since my arthritis is a little worse at 73, I am finding changing the needles very fiddly, but it’s not stopping me knitting!
Hi Kate, that was very interesting. I have Knit pro symphony needles which I thought were great until I came to try magic loop, when I found the cable had far too much memory and made knitting a struggle. I found Hyahya, and love the flexible cable, but like you, find the sharps really painful...Small circulars are no good for my hands so for sock knitting I go back to my trusty Addi DPNs. I must look for the Hyahya steels, as I think they would solve my magic loop problems. Thank you.
Thank you Kate a very informative. I am also a thrower with the same push down habit that you have ... I am so glad that circular needles were invented but idea ever and I use magic loop when ever I can. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
This was a really interesting watch and a great idea. I do love my fixed chiaogoo for knitting magic loop. It is good to have choice though.
Really helpful. I, too, find the wooden Knitpro interchangeables a bit tricky to move stitches around the join. I think the needles i love best ar the Zings, especially for socks. I have just bought a set of Prym Ergonomics dpn, which are triangular, so let’s see what they are like!
I'm recently returned to knitting after several decades, and still exploring the range of circular needles available. I like bamboo for its grip, but I had a cheap set break on me recently. I replaced it with a Chiaogoo, but find there is a bit of catch at the join. I have one set of KnitPro wooden tips, and another of a red material that is smooth yet grippy. I'd love to buy a set simply for the ease of storage, but here in NZ, where everything is imported, there's very little coming in and most sets are sold out! I found your neede comparisons most helpful, Kate. I'll probably try a few more KnitPros in differnt sizes, and buy an empty case one day to store them in.
Have you tried Kinki Amibari needles by SeeKnit? I have posted a longer response upthread, but these are now my favorite bamboo/wood needles. The needles have a bit of grip but still slick enough too knit fast and comfortable. The needle have a sharp end - but not too sharp that it splits yarn eevn with laceweight yarn held triple. The join is SUPER SMOOTH and on a swivel cord.
What a treat to have this pop up! Thoroughly enjoyed and look forward to next one! ☕️❤️
Greetings from Scotland 🏴 Kate 🥃🥃🧶 thank you for this highly informative film 💐
Interesting comparison! I have a mix of needles of different brands. Wooden. Bamboo. Steel. Plastic. Plastic covered steel.some were really cheap but working well. The main thing is, as you said, your style of knitting and the wool. I am a continental knitter and knit medium lose. I usually use non superwash wool for sweaters, sockwool, cotton. I love addi needles. I found they are exactly time for me. I use the blunt ones, the pointed ones, fixed to the cable or the click system. No problems for me. I must buyore separate cables and a few more tips because all my addi needles are in use ( WIPs). So really find out what is the best for you. So any comparison other knitters give is a super background information to decide on your system. It will help to save money. Thank you, Kate, for your thoughts.
I must knit exactly like you, because I have the same issues with unscrewing tips and sore fingers. I use chiaogoo reds. Think I may try knitpro zings. Thanks for this thorough review!
I'm a new knitter and needed this video with your wonderful opinions. Thank you so much!
Hi there. I'm a new subscriber. I love crochet but I also do knit (advanced). I am just like you and I've learnt new things from you today because I also love the KnitPro and too true - I do push my work forward and can't work with the sharp points. I've also heard Inga Skeie (Knitting Traditions) mention Lykke needles. I love the wood. I live in SOuth Africa, Cape town so the weather is very hot. even our winters are hot and not that cold. So I don't work with mohair - I'm absolutely allergic. It is so so scratchy. I've been recommended other 100% wool that is not scratchy to the skin because I love love the look of the mohair, such a pity that I can't wear it - well, not on my skin for sure. Have a super blessed February. x
Nice informational podcast Kate. I have watched you knit and we are very similar. I don't tension my yarn.
I started out my first project on wooden straights to knit a scarf. I quickly moved on to Chiao Goo and have two full sets and many fixed Chiao Goo. They just
work good for me.
What a good Time with you!! Thanks for your sharing your expérience about needles ☺️
My favorite are knitpro in bambou. 😀
But so many I never try yet (like knitpro in métal, or hya hya, or barely Chiagoo).
The same than you, I dislike sharp needles, because I am always pushing the needles with my index finger... 😉
I wish you a great day !!! 😊😊
Coming in late watching , enjoyed listening to your view on all the various needle sets and how they work out for you with your style of knitting and how they react with different fibers
Morning Kate, thank you for all your information on needles. I’ve just got back into knitting again. I’ve always used straight needles , but want to try some circulars. I think there might be some knit pros on my wish list from now. Thanks again Doreen.
Thank you! It's good the get an opinion from another thrower. I haven't had a chance to try most of the sets you review here but I'd like to. I have a full set of ChiaoGoo needles and I love them! I do have a nice set of Lykke double pointed. They are a dream to knit with.
I have a set of Addi clicks and Lykke interchangeables and love them both. Great video, thanks.
What a lovely podcast, Kate. My DPNs for sock knitting are Zings. I love addi needles, but do not enjoy the interchangeable locking mechanism. One of the needles always comes undone. So, I am largely sticking to my other addis for knitting in the round and I do have one of their long flex stixs for hats, sleeves and such. I will try to add a few more flex stix in various sizes as my budget allows. My main go to are my Lykke needles of which I have an interchangeable and a DPN (larger sizes) set.
Needles make all the difference and are such a very personal purchase
Great review, thank you! Most other reviews I have seen have been by continental knitters so it’s great to see the view of a fellow thrower 😁
This was very enjoyable. I got such a laugh out of it as you and I could not disagree more about needles. I am always looking for the longest tips and the sharpest points. I can't stand Addi needles of any persuasion. Then all of a sudden we were on the same page -Lykke! I have the longer tipped interchangeable circs and the double points. They are the only wooden needles I use and I LOVE them. My only quibble with them is I wish the sets had more smaller gauge needles and fewer larger ones. And I still love them!
I LOVE your Coffee with Kate series. Watching again for the third time. Very relaxing. I find your podcasts are my favorite s!!
Enjoyed that, interesting.....Knitpro wooden needles were my first interchangeable needles too and I do like them still, the thing I like best about Zing is the colours for the different sizes. I’ve tried the buying singular needles and then went for the chiaogoo. Thanks Kate
Thank you so much for taking the time to share this. xx
I just went back to this fantastic video - thank you so much for your help, my lovely. I haven't knitted in ages and decided to knit a jumper again. I remembered that I was never quite comfortable with the metal needles that I had and how they put me off at times. I have now ordered the KnitPro set from your top 3 and I'm ridiculously excited! 🤗 Have a lovely festive weekend and thank you. ♥️
Thank you! I’m so glad you’ve got sorted. Enjoy your knitting!!😊
@@HawthornCottageCraft Thank you, I feel like a proper curtain twitcher today, waiting for the post ... 😉 I shall re-watch your lovely video with all your jumpers soon (even though I should keep it really simple). 🌻 I'm so grateful for your videos about needles, yarns etc., I can't thank you enough. ♥️
That was interesting and helpful, thanks. I really do find the sharps dangerous. I also hurt my finger so many times. 🙁
I had the same issue with my Addi lace interchangeable needle set-I had it come undone on several projects. I love the chicago goo red lace and Lykke fixed. I have yet to try the interchangeable. Thanks for the info.
Thank you for the advice on the Addi set. I also turn my needle when I knit.
I have the Addi Lace Rockets in the pink case. Never had them come apart from the cables. Love mine :) Thank you for your detailed video.
Thank you Kate for your needle roundup it was really interesting . I was taught to knit by my grandmother using straight needles many moons ago. I always held the right needle under my arm to anchor it. I knit like that for years but I’m now a circular needle convert. I now use Knitpro zings, Chiaogoo and the Lykke sets. I also use the Knitpro Zing DPNs.
Thank you Kate for such an interesting chat on needles. I have always had an issue with stocking stitch in that my purl row is always a little looser than my knit row, hence making an easy seen row mark on the garment. So decided to start using the circular needle and have found it much more even and really more enjoyable knitting in the round! I have only just started my collection and so enjoyed hearing your likes and will certainly try your recommendations. Thank you 😊
Hi Kate : it was fun to see your various needle sets and to know that we have some in common. I recently purchased (as in 2021) the Knit Pro Symphonies which arrived from Amazon in the UK and that made them even more special for me. I seem to favor wood or bamboo the most because they feel light on my hands and I enjoy ‘natural’ materials. Might be fun to do a similar episode about yarns Or to hear more about how you progressed in your garment knitting Which is something I would love to do for myself.
I love knit pro needles too. im a thrower and use the tips to push on so will avoid hiya hiya sharps lol.
Hi Kate I have some very old knitting needles that were my grandmothers she knited and crocheting I learned to crocheting but never knitting .
First time watching your podcast and I loved it! We have the same taste in needles🤗 Looking forward to your other podcasts 🧶👍🏾
Thanks Kate!,!THAT WAS GREAT!!!
VERY informative,,,,I an a thrower too!!!
Don't really have a set of needles,,,Have odd ones and a few cables of the knit picks wooden needles,,,,very much like the knit pro wood ones,,,
Like my 9 inch Chicagoo for socks the best,,,,and just learned majic loop so trying out a few different needles,,,
Very helpful,,,,
Elaine🏠🏠🏠🏠🏠
I don’t get on with straight needles for the same reason you do ! Then I found interchangeable needles and I love them. Knit pro symphony and hiya hiya sharp are my favourites. Always fun to try out a new set though 🤣 Love Cherry x
Love the new segment, I appreciate your opinion very much and you offer super helpful information in what to look for in a needle.
You might be interested to know, especially new circular knitters who are considering purchasing an interchangeable set of needless, that Drops Yarns also make a set of metal interchangeable. They are very competitively priced and will also interchange with Knit Pro needles (they may even be made by the same company)
So interesting to hear your take on the different needles. I’ve been gradually switching to all fixed ChiaoGoo lace circular knitting needles. They suit the bulk of my current projects.
I bought some HiyaHiya sharps and did not like them at all-like Knitting torture. There’s a difference between sharp and poking holes in my fingers.
Fairly new to your channel. I started with your Christmas vlogmas and now I consider you a comfortable friend that I’ve never met in person, but for whom I look forward to each video you post.
You inspire me to make my own knitted sweater. I’ve made enough baby sweaters. Time for a grown woman sweater for me now.
I’m in Southern Maryland USA.
This was interesting and very helpful. I'm a great fan of ChiaoGoo's but am looking for a set of wooden needles to add to my collection. I will investigate the Lykke driftwoods. Thank you!
Thank you 😊 I hope you like the Lykke needles!
Excellent podcast. Very informative. Thank you.
It was great to see all your needle sets. I have only ever bought cheap needles from E bay, one set of bamboos and one set of metal. Both sets have lovely soft cables but are not very pointed. Needless to say I am very happy with these because obviously I haven’t tried any of the others you talk about. I am frightened to spend so much money on a set of needles and then decide I must have a different set, because they may be better!!! It was very informative to hear your pros and cons for each set which will help me make up my mind. Could well be a birthday present for myself, thank you. Keep safe x
Thank you Kate. I was looking forward to this podcast, and it was great to hear your thoughts. I think you and I have similar knitting styles. I have found the same issues with the Hiya Hiya sharps and do enjoy my Lykke driftwood set. So interesting to hear your thoughts concerning addis and chai goos and their cables. Thanks again!
Very educational podcast! Thank you. I have the Lykke interchangeable needles and love them. Only complaint is that the size written on them is small and difficult to read. But super easy and comfortable to knit with. Would never go back to metal needles.
Thank you for sharing! Our needles are our tools...and we must be comfortable with the tools that we choose.
Thank you for this needle chat, I was struck by our similar path to interchangeable sets. I have 3 sets, and they are in constant rotation... Lykke Driftwood, Chiagoo red lace, and Chiagoo blue lace shorties. Agree, it's a significant investment, but I can't imagine not having them now 🙂
Love Coffee with Kate! Thank you for another wonderful podcast!
Thanks for the great review, especially because I'm a throw knitter too (thought I was the only one). Haven't been success ful learning another style. I bought my first set, chiagoos, and learned magic loop but also had issues with ladders. I look forward to trying some of your recommendations once I know I'm fully committed to knitting again.
Thank you Kate, that was so enjoyable sitting with my cuppa. I am on the second sock of my first ever pair and using knit pro. I had the same problem as you with the hiya hiya, I did not realize they made some less sharp! I am not a confident knitter but hoping to attempt more detailed patterns this year. Thank you for sharing your experience with knitting needles, it has certainly helped me. Hope you are managing lots of knitting coffee breaks. Look forward to your next podcast. Take care.
Thank you for your info. I am toying with the idea of buying a set. I have so many but it never fails that I need one size or type hat I don't have! I love working with addi needles but the Lykke set is beautiful.
I liked this video because I can relate! I have way too many needles that were always bought on sale and met the need/and skill level at the time of purchase. I recently purchased Prym ergonomic DPN’s that Arne & Carlos talk about. I love the way they feel, except that they are a bit long and one snapped while knitting (I don’t put a lot of pressure). The other issues is the sizing. They list US 1 at 2.50mm instead of 2.25 -so my gauge is too loose. I’m hoping Prym corrects the sizing. I tried the Signature DPN’s, but returned them because nothing special and too expensive. My go-to now are Karbonz DPN’s for socks -larger sizes are to too heavy. Looking forward to your next podcast. Best wishes!
Thank you for this review. I knit in exactly the same way that you do and my finger is constantly sore from pushing the needle. I have been using Chiaogoo needles but have just ordered some Hiya hiya steele ......can’t wait to try them!
Love this new segment of your podcasts Kate. I also love my Lykke needles and use them for most of my projects. I have a set of the Addi clicks too and I just find them hard to “click” into place. I just got them last year, so I’m going to keep trying.
Thank you. I found this episode very interesting with your needle tour.
Hiya Hiya Steels are my favourite too. Just the right amount of slip, not too sharp, but I mostly love the way the joins swivel. I twist as I knit, so find the way fixed cable joins move quite annoying. I do like a fixed circular ChiaGoo red lace for magic looping socks though. The sturdier cable helps with the stability. Although I prefer dpns for socks.
Like you, I always found straight needles cumbersome and awkward. I am a circ needle user only. I discovered Lykke needles a couple of years ago in my LYS. I have never looked back, and now only use my Lykke needles. I also crochet, and I now have an entire set of hooks in Lykke driftwood. The owner of my LYS pronounced them "Likey" rhymes with mikey. I don't know if that's correct, but there ya go. I am an English "picker" my hand never leaves the needle. Subscribed!
Thanks Kate. I have been thinking about getting a set of Lykke needles and it is great to hear what you think of them. Very helpful podcast!
Hello Kate. I too found the Addi click needles coming apart in my knitting but I do like the Addi sock wonder. I haven't such an extensive range of needles but I agree, Knitpro are lovely to use.
Thank you Kate. Very helpful. great idea!!!
What a great needle collection. I have several straight needles that do not get used but it is disheartening to think of throwing everything away. I also have many, many circulars that I do not use because they are the very old Aero brand with the very stiff plastic cord that isn’t very flexible at all. They are really only good for wide straight projects. It would be nice we could create our own personalized set of needles for the sizes we use. I find most that sets have several needle sizes that I never use.
My needle progession is very similar to yours and now I'm using Chiaogoo Red Lace circulars, I find that with Zings I was having to push the stitches over the join which frustrated me. I have found that if I have a sore finger from knitting, a piece of fabric plaster can help 'support' the skin from all the prodding and poking of the needles.
Very good discussion about your knitting needles. I have found lots of inexpensive knitting needles at a local thrift store and at a local craft store with a coupon and also on ebay.
Love your needle collection. I loved listening to this with a cup of tea.
Love my Lyyke needles, too! Although my Hiya-Hiya sharps are my favorite for lace knitting. Hope your birthday is special...I think you mentioned a few episodes ago it was upcoming.
Thanks Kate . Very helpful 😀
Good afternoon Kate, hope you're well, thank you for this podcast, even though I have been knitting for over 60 years it's only the past couple of months that I have started knitting with circular needles, I had bought a cheap bamboo set a few years ago but just couldn't get the hang of them, I have been looking for at the different makes to buy some decent ones but just didn't know what to look for, I use bamboo needles for 30 years because I have arthritis in my hands and arms, but I will definitely have a look at the knit pro and hiya hiys ones.
Stay safe stay well, hugs from Scotland xx
I have arthritis in my hands too and it’s one of the reasons I love circular needles....takes the weight out of the knitting
@@HawthornCottageCraft it really does help, I just wish I had started using them years ago, just too stuck in my old ways lol, and it's mainly baby shawls and adults arans that I knit, xx
Thanks Kate! I also find Hiya Hiya Sharps painful depending on the size I’m using - plenty of holes in my finger, ouch 😕 I do like the flexibility of the cables tho and prefer these for hat and sleeve knitting. Also have a set of Chiagoo’s which I love.
When I can afford a new set I’ll have a look at the Hiya Hiya steels as an alternative - thanks again!
Thank you for this, I use very old needles and this has started me thinking that I should upgrade x
I’m a thrower and have previously had injuries with the Hiya Hiya sharps. I too have the Lykke set and love them. I use the Chiaogoo 9 inch circulars for socks.
Thanks Kate, this was very helpful. I have just started considering investing in a set of interchangeable needles but beginning to realise how many brands there are out there and that I need to do a lot more research! I have mostly old straight metal needles (some of which were my mothers), with the odd pair of bamboo and circular needles from when needed for a certain pattern. As you say maybe an idea to try them out singly first before investing in a set. Thanks again for sharing the information.
It’s definitely worth trying a single needle of the brand you like...the sets are an investment that you want to get right. Enjoy trying them out!😊
Hi Kate. Thank you so much for the review. A lot of excellent information. I went to Lykke site and saw this so I thought I'd share.
Just about every knitter knows by now that the Norwegian word for happiness is lykke (pronounced luu-kah).
This is helpful. I have the knitpro set which i love and i think i will stick with them. The only thing i have fancied is the cords without memory but need to see if they would fit on my knit pros. X
Nice video! I love my HiyaHiya Steel and use them all the time. I also have a few pairs of sharp tips and find them useful for lace knitting. My HiyaHiya set came both with the rubber grippy-thingy and a key 🧐 Also HiyaHiya makes wonderful DPNs which are a delight to use for sock knitting. When it comes to Zings I have them as straights which I like using for flat knit pieces.
I tried wooden needles but sold the whole set just after two weeks as I found them way too slow and grippy. I’ve heard that Lykke needles are fully compatible with knit pro and are produced in the same factory. It’s all so confusing.
Lovely visit and I too love needles and am always interested in other peoples views and opinions.
I use the needles from Clover called Takumi needles. Love the bamboo feel of them. I have been knitting since the late 1960s. My first interchangeable sets were by Boye. I wore one set out and actually bought a second set. I much prefer bamboo needles though then those which are metal.
Bamboo needles have a lovely feel to them. I like using them for some of my projects❤️
I am aware the making of the video is some time ago…., I don’t really expect an answer but I am confused that the HyaHya needles seem to be less expensive than the ChiaoGoo needles. In my country it is the other way around…? Here the HyaHya are the most expensive needles. Well, not really there are some …. Starting with an S…, I can’t remember, but for one pair of those you pay around 60 Euros here in my country…, so for me nothing to think about🤷🏼♀️.
Just ordered the ChiaoGoo set. Fingers crossed that I like them. Loved this video. Very sympathetic, very interesting! Thank you💕
Have you tried Kinki Amibari needles by SeeKnit? I also have CG and own both sets in stainless and bamboo. I really like the stainless, but find that with certain yarns they are almost too fast and I need a little grip. I am currently using coned yarns from ColourMart and these have a bit of oil making them extra slippery. I did swatch with both CG stainless and bamboo and the bamboo felt nicer as I did not feel I had to grip my needles too hard. Still, the points on the CG bamboo needles were a little too sharp. I had heard excellent things about KA needles, but they are not as common as other brands.
Anyway, I decided to give them a shot after someone else I knew purchased them and raved about them. KA comes in a light bamboo and a darker bamboo. The darker bamboo is hardened even more.
Let me just tell you that after trying them out, there are my favorite bamboo/wood needles. The needles have a bit of grip but still slick enough too knit fast and comfortable. The needle have a sharp end - but not too sharp that it splits your yarn. I am using laceweight yarn and hold them triple. The join is SUPER SMOOTH - I was surprised a grippie or even t-pin is not needed. It's a swivel cord. I was so impressed by them I am going to buy more of the dark needles - for back up and to have the larger set.
The downside is the company is not in most LYS, but they do sell direct from Japan on Etsy. I'm not sure if they use a time capsule, but their shipping is blazing fast. I assure you I do not work for them. I have a give card and will use it to load up on all the sizes and accessories I do not have. Between Chiaogoo Stainless and Kinki Amibari, I am all set.
Loved this Kate. Thanks
Thank you for sharing your honest opinion. I love my Zing needles! They are, to me, the perfect slickness for acrylic and cotton yarns (I don't and can't knit with wool.) They are not too slick and not too grippy. I have had issues with the cords a few times and I haven't been able to contact the company directly, but have dealt with yarn shops who were helpful. (I'm in the US, Michigan.)
I also throw and have hurt my left index finger on sharp tips...KnitPicks short needles...because of the sharp tips.
I think about getting another set, but they are pricey. With your speaking so highly of your Zings, I think I'll stick with them. I've enjoyed them for a number of years now.
Thanks for this, Kate, very helpful😀 x
Thank you for the review! I have been leaning towards lykee as my first set and wanted to get many opinions on them. I am still a beginner knitter but hope to continue with it for the rest of my life and get to an advanced level. Wanted to say your jumper is gorgeous!
❤️❤️
Hi. I got into knitting in late 2019 and I know where you're coming from. My best advice is to buy the best you can afford. I have a set of Lykke needles, but don't like the cord since I started using Chiaogoo. Knitter's Pride released Mindful Collection and their cords are like the CG memory-free cord. If you plan on knitting a lot of sweaters or using DK/Worsted, you could get by with small set of CG and buy a few needles here and there. I got my CG sets at a great price so it made sense to purchase the complete sets at that time.