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THE NICEST NEEDLES
Q I’ve been using some old aluminium needles that my grandmother gave me. They’re lovely to have as a keepsake, but I’m not really enjoying how they feel when I knit. I would really like to try some other kinds of needles, but there’s so much choice. Do I go for wood, plastic or metal? I’m a bit overwhelmed. Do you have any recommendations?
Rebecca Collier
That’s a question that has no short answer! The various materials needles are made from all have different pros and cons, and it’s really a case of trying things out and seeing what works for you. However, I can give you a rundown of the different qualities that the various materials and needle types bring to your knitting.
Bamboo A great place to start is bamboo needles – they are light, inexpensive and quite grippy, so your knitting won’t slip around on them.
Wood You could also try wooden needles, which are denser than bamboo. They tend to be made from hard woods like birch and rosewood. I gravitate to these because I like how solid they feel, and they’re not too slippery.
Metal Metal needles are often a good choice. You can get ones made from steel (very strong, often sharp), which can help you knit faster thanks to their exceptionally smooth surface. These are often used for finer yarns, like sock-weight or lace.
Plastic or acrylic There are also plastic or acrylic needles, which are light but smooth.
So, if you want something light and inexpensive, try plastic, aluminium or bamboo. If you like the idea of something solid-feeling, warm and not too slippery, try wood. For speed and strength or if working with fine yarn (or sticky yarn, like mohair), try steel. I bought my favourite set of wooden needles without even testing them beca
