static/image/common/user_online.gif bevcustom static/image/common/clock.gif 2018-6-4 05:12
I highly recommend the Magic loop on a long circular needle. It works best for me, I dont get "ladd ...
Agree with the Magic Loop. Im always dropping the needles when using double points. So annoying to have to stop and look for your needle on the floor
I use rubber bands, but thank you very much for the info!
I mostly dont mind using dpns, but the wooden ones are so much better, the stitches dont slip from them as easily. That being said, I have bought several sets of the flexible dpns - they have a cable in the middle, like a very short circular - and I really love them. The stitches move to the cable, never slip off, its just so much easier to knit with them.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH
I second the magic loop method!
Oh, double-pointed needles (DPNs) can be such a tricky little beast! I totally understand your frustration—I've had my fair share of dropped stitches and loose spots, especially when I was first learning to work in the round. But once you get the hang of it, it’s like riding a bike (just with a little more yarn involved, ha!).Here are some tips to help you gain more confidence with DPNs:1. Choose the Right Size DPNs for Your YarnSometimes using DPNs that are a size too big or too small for your project can make things a little harder. Try to match your needle size to the recommended size for the yarn you're using, and don’t be afraid to go a little bit smaller to get a tighter fabric, especially around the ends.2. Cast On and Distribute EvenlyWhen you’re casting on, make sure you’re distributing the stitches as evenly as possible across all your needles. I usually divide the total number of stitches by the number of needles (e.g., 12 stitches per needle for a 4-needle setup). Don’t worry too much if the first couple of rounds feel tight or awkward, though, it’ll loosen up once you get going!3. Keep Tension EvenThis is where a lot of people struggle! When you get to the end of a needle, be careful not to let your tension loosen up too much. If your tension’s too loose at the joins, it’ll create those pesky gaps. The best thing to do is to make sure you pull the working yarn snug but not overly tight as you transition between needles. You can also “close the gap” by pulling the yarn tight after the first stitch on the new needle.4. When You Reach the End of the NeedleWhen you’re about to start a new needle, it can be tempting to just zoom through to the next one, but be careful not to rush. Make sure to shift your stitches over on the needle so that you aren’t trying to stretch your stitches too much, which can cause them to pop off.One thing I always do is to double-check that the stitches aren't twisted when I switch needles—if your work is twisted, it can mess up your pattern and cause some real headaches.5. Don’t Forget the “First and Last” StitchesI know I’ve mentioned it before, but it’s a great habit to get into: when you start the first stitch on a new needle, pull the yarn a little tighter than usual. This helps close up any gaps that might appear. Similarly, when you're done with the last stitch on a needle, make sure the working yarn isn't too loose either.6. Use Markers to Mark Your RoundsIf you’re knitting in the round, I cannot stress enough how helpful stitch markers are. They tell you exactly where a round begins and ends, and help you stay focused on your stitch pattern. Plus, if you're working a patterned project, it's great to keep track of where you are without getting lost in the needles.7. Switch to Magic Loop or Two Circulars (Optional!)If DPNs really just aren’t clicking for you, I highly recommend trying the Magic Loop method or two circular needlesinstead. Magic Loop uses a single long circular needle to work in the round by pulling the cable through the stitches. It's much easier for some knitters than using four needles. I’ve switched to Magic Loop for smaller projects like hats and socks, and it makes me feel more in control of the tension and stitch placement.8. Practice, Practice, PracticeI know, I know—everyone says this, but the more you practice, the easier it gets. I would recommend trying it on a small project first, like a simple hat or a small cozy, just so you get used to the motion and how the needles move. I’ve found that knitting small sections, like doing a few rounds of stockinette or garter, really helps me feel comfortable with the rhythm.I really do hope one of these tips helps! Double-pointed needles can seem a little intimidating at first, but once you get into the groove of things, it becomes second nature. If you’re still feeling a bit lost, don’t hesitate to ask more specific questions about where you’re getting stuck—I’m happy to help. And if all else fails, there’s always a cup of tea and a warm batch of cookies to comfort you while you troubleshoot! ?
Thank you for sharing!