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Knitting is a wonderful hobby that the whole family can get involved in, and the right knitting needle set can make all the difference when it comes to your projects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced knitter, you need dependable needles that are comfortable to use and of high quality. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the finest knitting needle sets.
We’ve included sets of all styles and sizes, from bamboo to stainless steel and in sizes from 0 (2mm) to 17 (12.75mm). Our list includes sets for all budgets, so you’re sure to find the perfect set for your needs. So, get ready to cast on and kick off your knitting project with one of the top-rated knitting needle sets of the year!
Knitting Needle Sets: A Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to purchasing the right set of knitting needles, there are a few features and aspects to consider. The perfect set of needles will depend on what type of knitting projects you’ll be working on and your individual preferences. To help guide you in your decision, here’s a comprehensive buyer’s guide.
Factors To Consider Before Purchasing Knitting Needle Sets
Needle material
The most popular materials for knitting needles are aluminum, plastic, bamboo, and wood. Aluminum needles are lightweight and great for beginners who want an economical option. Plastic needles come in various colors and can be purchased in single-pointed and double-pointed varieties. Bamboo needles are lightweight, and heat conduction from the hands helps to make even stitches. Wood needles are strong and provide stability since they offer a high strength-to-weight ratio but require more attention when maintaining their sharp points.
Type of needles
Depending on the type of project you’re working on, there are different types of needles available. Double-pointed needles are ideal for small projects like hats or socks, while circular needles are better for larger projects like sweaters or blankets. Interchangeable needles have interchangeable cables that allow users to easily switch out needle types without purchasing multiple sets.
Needle sizes
Needles come in various sizes that are measured in millimeters (mm) and US numbers (US). Most needle sets come with a combination of sizes so that you can easily work on various projects. Typically, sets will include two pairs of different-sized single-pointed or double-pointed needles and several lengths of circular needles in different sizes. Some kits even include accessories like cable needles, stitch markers, and other tools for more advanced knitters.
Different Components of Knitting Needle Sets
A knitting needle set typically includes various components for various knitting projects and techniques. The exact components may vary depending on the manufacturer and the type of needle set, but here are some common components you can find in knitting needle sets.
- Needles: Needle sets usually include a range of needle sizes, typically ranging from small to large, to accommodate different yarn weights and stitch sizes.
- Interchangeable Needle Tips: Interchangeable needle sets include a range of needle tips that can be attached to different cable lengths. The needle tips are typically made of metal, wood, or plastic and come in various sizes.
- Cables: Interchangeable needle sets include cables or cords that connect the needle tips. They can be attached to the needle tips to create the desired length for your project.
- Cable Keys or Tighteners: Interchangeable needle sets often include cable keys or tighteners. These small tools help tighten the connection between the needle tips and the cables, ensuring they stay securely attached while knitting.
- Stitch Markers: Stitch markers are small rings or clips that mark specific stitches in your knitting. They help you keep track of stitch patterns, increases, decreases, or any other instructions in your project.
Knitting Needle Sets: Buying Tips
Additional accessories
Many kits come with additional accessories such as cable needles, stitch markers, row counters, yarn cutters, stitch holders, crochet hooks, point protectors, and other helpful tools, depending on the set purchased. Make sure any additional supplies included meet your needs before making your decision.
Comfort and ergonomics
Ergonomic designs can reduce fatigue by improving circulation and minimizing stress on hands, arms, back, neck, and shoulders. Ergonomics is about designing for people to increase efficiency and reduce discomfort. Look for brands claiming ergonomic comfort levels, such as ergonomic loop handles or protective cushions, and handles made from comfortable materials like rubberized or memory foam grips. Overall, look for ways a specific set can meet individual needs while still fitting into project requirements.
Tips To Store a Knitting Needle Set
- Needle Case or Roll-Up Organizer: Invest in a needle case or roll-up organizer specifically designed for knitting needles. These cases often have individual slots or pockets to hold each needle, keeping them organized and protected.
- Labeling: Consider labeling each slot or pocket in your needle case with the size or type of needle it holds.
- Zipper Bags: If you don’t have a dedicated needle case, you can use resealable zipper bags to store and organize your knitting needles. Label each bag with the needle size or type and stack them together in a box or basket.
Detailing the Top-Rated Knitting Needle Sets
Curtzy Knitting Needle Set
– Best Overall
The Curtzy Knitting Needle Set is a must-have for anyone who enjoys the craft of knitting. This 16-piece set offers a range of sizes from 2mm to 12mm, and each needle measures 34cm/13.5 inches in length. The European and USA sizes are etched onto each needle for easy identification and selection, making this set an ideal choice for beginners, experts, and those in between. The needles are made from bleached bamboo wood, which helps to ensure no rough edges, and are stronger than traditional wooden needles.
These needles are smooth and light, making them ideal for users who suffer from joint pain or arthritis, as they require less tension while crafting. This set also comes with a convenient cotton roll case that stores the needles and helps keep them all in one place. This is especially useful for those small-sized needles which can be easily misplaced. Knitters of all skill levels can use this set to create beanie hats, baby socks, jumpers, cushion covers, blankets, scarves, headbands, and more. Equipped with a money-back guarantee, this knitting needle set by Curtzy is top-rated on our list.
Pros
- Marked with mm sizing and US sizing
- Sizing is 98% consistent for each pair
- Comes with a cotton storage case
Cons
- Edges of needles may be sharp
BetyBedy Knitting Needle Set
– Variety of Sizes
The 36PCS Bamboo Knitting Needles Set by BetyBedy is perfect for beginner knitters or DIY lovers. The needles are made of bamboo, which has been bleached and carbonized to ensure a smooth finish and prevent any sharp edges. The bamboo material is also lightweight, helping ensure the user can knit or crochet comfortably. The knitting needles come in 18 different sizes, ranging from 2.0mm-10.0mm. This means that users of all levels can find the right size knitting needles for their project.
Each set of needles is also single-pointed for added efficiency and to prevent any wool from slipping off. DIY enthusiasts will enjoy using this knitting needle set for their projects such as sweaters, hats, scarves, gloves, socks, and shoes. This is also a great tool for crafters to prepare gifts for friends and family members. Overall, this pick is an ideal tool for beginner knitters and DIY lovers. The variety of sizes and lightweight bamboo material make it very comfortable to use, while the single-pointed design ensures that the wool does not slip off easily.
Pros
- Sizes range from tiny to bulky yarns
- Smooth, sturdy, and lightweight needles
- Size markings stamped on needles
Cons
- Needles may be duller than expected
EXQUISS Knitting Needle Set
– Comprehensive Pick
The EXQUISS Bamboo Knitting Needles Set is a fantastic choice for those looking to take their knitting projects to the next level. This set comes with an impressive amount of supplies and accessories, such as 18 pairs of circular bamboo knitting needles with colorful plastic tubes, 36 pairs of single-point bamboo knitting needles, including sizes from 2.0mm-10.0mm, and a weaving tools kit with a case. The circular needles come in 18 different sizes that are clearly marked for ease of selection and feature lengths of approximately 31.5 inches.
Additionally, the single-pointed bamboo knitting needles also come in 18 sizes from 2.0mm-10.0mm and measure approximately 9 inches each. All of these sizes are permanently engraved into the handles for added convenience. The coating on the needles also ensures that there will be no static reactions when you’re knitting or weaving, which is important for a stress-free experience. The needles themselves are made from luxurious yet lightweight bamboo wood that is smooth without any burrs. The colorful plastic tubing is soft and flexible enough to support your project without adding any extra weight or bulk.
Pros
- Strong carbonized bamboo needles
- Contains yarning needles, stoppers, and markers
- Needles work well for larger projects
Cons
- Difficult to read stamped needle sizes
BCMRUN Knitting Needle Set
– Most Durable
This Knitting Needle Set from BCMRUN is a must-have for any serious knitter. Crafted from stainless steel, this set of 22 needles is lightweight and smooth to knit with, resulting in no snagging or catching of yarn. The needle set provides an ample range of sizes, from 2mm (B) to 8mm (L). Even better, each needle is clearly labeled with the size at the top for easy identification. Also included in the package are 9 pieces of large-eye blunt needles, 10 knitting stitch markers, a knitting needles bag, and a measuring tape for exact sizing.
This all-in-one kit contains everything you need to start knitting. With the included storage bag, you can take your kit anywhere you want to go – ideal for travel or taking it to classes. This knitting needle set suits anyone of all levels – experienced knitters and beginner DIY lovers. It is perfect for creating handmade items such as sweaters, hats, scarves, gloves, socks, and even shoes!
Pros
- Lightweight and smooth needles
- Includes assorted stitch markers and yarn needles
- Variety of needle sizes
Cons
- Yarn needle tips are a little blunt
Seawhisper Knitting Needle Set
– Sturdy Pick
The Seawhisper Knitting Needle Set is the perfect choice for any knitter, beginner, or professional. With US-size markings, these needles are strong and durable, so you don’t have to guess the measurements. The set has 6 pairs – sizes 15, 11, 9, 7, 4, and 1.5. The needle tips are 5.75“ long and the tube is 28“ long, making it the perfect size for even your biggest projects, such as tank tops, scarves, sweaters, and blankets. These circular knitting needles are stainless steel with semi-pointy tips, providing a great ride for your stitches.
The hollow tubing cord makes these the best for knitting in the round with two circular needles. The tube is only slightly thinner than the needles, so you don’t get overly tight stitches near the end of the needles. The stainless steel material is also super light, making the product less bulky and easier to carry around. The quality product performance you get from this set rivals higher-priced versions found in craft stores.
Pros
- Made of stainless steel
- Very smooth metal and smooth joins
- Sturdy construction and affordable build
Cons
- Cables too stiff for Magic Loop knitting
People Also Asked
Q: What is the ideal knitting needle set for beginners?
A: The top knitting needle set for beginners will be one that comes with a variety of sizes, materials, and styles to accommodate different types of projects. A basic set should include at least two pairs of straight needles in sizes US 6 (4 mm) and US 8 (5 mm), as well as a pair of double-pointed needles in US 6 (4 mm) and US 8 (5 mm). Additionally, an interchangeable knitting needle set can provide great flexibility for beginner knitters.
Q: What is the difference between aluminum and bamboo knitting needles?
A: Aluminum knitting needles are lightweight and durable, making them great for intricate projects that require precision. Bamboo needles provide a warm feel and good grip, allowing them to be better used for larger projects such as blankets or knitwear. Bamboo needles are more gentle on the hands and easier to handle, while aluminum needles are usually cheaper than bamboo.
Q: What size knitting needles should I buy?
A: The size of knitting needles you should buy will depend on your project. Generally speaking, smaller size needles (such as US 0 – 3) are better for intricate lace, fingering weight yarns, or small items such as baby booties or hats; while larger size needles (such as US 7 – 10) are better suited for heavy weight yarns, bulky projects such as afghans, or large items like sweaters.
Q: What are the advantages of using circular knitting needles?
A: Circular knitting needles offer several advantages over traditional straight needles. The most notable of these benefits is their ability to hold many stitches at once, reducing stress on the hands and wrists, their portability due to the lack of sharp points, and the fact that they can be worked with two separate balls of yarn or even both ends of the same strand. They can also be used to create flat pieces of fabric by turning the work halfway through each round or by joining two pieces together circularly.
Q: How long do knitting needles typically last?
A: This depends on how often you use them and how well you take care of them; however, knitting needles will generally last many years if properly stored and handled with care when in use.
Q: Are plastic knitting needles good for beginners?
A: Yes, plastic knitting needles can be a good choice for beginners as they are lightweight and easy to handle without sacrificing any durability or accuracy in stitches since plastic is eventually heat-stable at higher temperatures than its metal counterparts. Plastic needles are also very affordable, so you won’t have to worry about investing too much money just yet before getting comfortable with the craft.
Q: What is the best way to store my knitting needle set?
A: The best way to store your knitting needle set is in an organized container, such as a box or case specifically designed for storing them safely and efficiently when not in use. Additionally, wrapping your individual needles in a soft cloth or paper towel can protect them from scratches or other damage that may occur during storage.
