The Best Knitting Needles for Sock Knitting

Did you know socks were the oldest knitted artefacts? Does this fact want to make you knit some socks? So, let’s get you started. Sock knitting might sound like an easy project but it’s only easy when you have the right set of knitting needles. Knitting socks majorly depends on the needles and your skills to use them properly. The options are generally double pointed, fixed circular and interchangeable circular needles. Knitters can use any or all of these tools for knitting socks. 

How to choose the best knitting needles for sock knitting?

When taking up the project of sock knitting, you should look out to prevent hassles of knitting small, in-the-round projects with fine-gauge yarn. You will be facing dropped stitches, cramped hands and more. Also, detailed knitting work like making socks requires more focus and concentration, So, if you haven’t got the right knitting needles set before, now is definitely the time.

You should go for needles that offer the right amount of grip, along with being non-slippery material while not preventing the smooth flow of stitches. Here is our suggestions for the best knitting needles that you can choose for knitting socks.

Knitting socks on Double Pointed Needles (DPNs)

The double-pointed needles (DPNs) are among the best tools for knitters. Allowing knitting from both ends, these needles are convenient for knitting in-the-round. The double-pointed needles come in a set of 5, in different materials.

Socks are usually knit in smaller sizes, so the double pointedknitting needles need to be narrower. We also suggest choosing ones that you have a better grip on. Bamboo or wood, carbon or plastic, aluminium or stainless steel, go for the needle material that you have the best understanding of. There are also special square double-pointed needles that are best for comfortable grip.

Sock knitting on Circular Needles

Made for smaller round circumference projects, circular needles are among the best knitting needle sets. The magic loop technique is a more comfortable choice for knitters to use for sock knitting. The cable that connects the tips of the circular needles is an advantage for knitting socks. This needle set has fewer opportunities for dropped stitches or other mistakes and even the best chance of taking a break from the project. In the range of circular needles, there is the choice of fixed circular knitting needles as well as interchangeable circular needles.

In the fixed circulars, the cable is permanently fixed but the needles are available in different sizes with varying cable lengths. This needle set is convenient to use. Choose the small-sized needles. This particular set has the least chance of ever losing a needle in the middle of the project.

In the case of interchangeable circular needles, the cable lengths can anytime be changed according to your preference and need of the project. These knitting needles come with cables of different lengths with cable connectors and cable keys to make the change smoother. You can anytime alter the length and dimensions of your sock project.

So, now that you know all about the knitting needles for the sock project, take a look at KnitPro’s website. Know more information about knitting needles and accessories. We have an incredible range of products made by knitters for the knitters.

Knit Pro Tunisian Crochet Hook

 

The Tunisian art of crocheting is a very old and beautiful technique that combines the advantages of two techniques - namely the simplicity of crocheting with the aesthetics and variety of patterns of knitting. But this technique also opens up completely new possibilities for creating designs and patterns that are only possible with Tunisian crocheting. In a different way, Tunisian crochet is also called Afghan crochet. But there is no difference between Tunisian crochet and Afghan crochet. The materials and needles required are the same.

At Knit Pro we have created the most beautiful and best Tunisian crochet hooks for you, so that you can conjure up your works full of joy. With this blog we would like to introduce you to our various Tunisian / Afghan crochet hooks.

But first the basics of the types of Tunisian crochet hooks. There are two different types of Tunisian crochet hooks. The first and often used is the one-sided Tunisian crochet hook. The hook is on one end of the tool and there is a plug on the other end of the tool. You can also find different cables for this purpose. These are just like the cables of the Interchangeable Knitting Needles. A brief information about this: Our Knit Pro Interchangeable Knitting Needle cables are also compatible with our Interchangeable Tunisian Crochet Needles. So you don't have to buy extra cables and you can use them for both needles. Practical right?

The second variant of the Tunisian crochet hooks are the double-sided crochet hooks, here the tool has a barb on both ends.

These two techniques are similar, have a lot in common, but are still very different.

While the one-sided Tunisian needles are often used for flat projects, the double-sided Tunisian Crochet needles are mostly used for round projects.

At Knit Pro you will find a wide variety of different Tunisian crochet hooks made from different materials. Here is something for everyone. Now we would like to introduce you to some of our best needles.

Symfonie Interchangeable Afghan / Tunisian Crochet Hook

The series Symfonie is very well known and popular due to the Knitting Needles and you can expand your Symfonie series with our Tunisian Crochet Hooks. Made of the finest Birchwood and a unique coloring, these needles are something very special. The cables are easy to connect and with smooth join that promises a easy stitch flow without any snagging. These needles are available in a wide variety of sizes.

Trendz Interchangeable Afghan / TunisianCrochet

Our colorful and bright Trendz needles are represented as Tunisian Crochet Hooks. These acrylic needles are especially ideal for beginners. These crochet hooks simply allow easy handling of slippery yarns and pick-up stitches in a fast and easy manner. Smooth joins to allow for easy and snag free sliding of yarn. These well priced Tunisian crochet hooks are simply perfect in all aspects for the beginners.

Bamboo Afghan / Tunisian Crochet

No matter how big your project should be, they are no problem for our Bamboo Afghan / Tunisian Crochet Hooks. You will be able to crochet your projects with the utmost comfort without any snagging or hassle.

These beautiful needles are made from the finest Japanese bamboo and have a perfect smooth finish. As if that weren't enough, the connectors are still plated with 24 carat gold and that promises the highest level of happiness when crocheting.

You will love our Knit Pro Bamboo Tunisian Crochet Hooks. Take a look at them on our website.

Trendz Traditional Double Ended TunisianCrochet

Bright colors that will fill you with happiness while crocheting. Our durable, strong and flexible Double ended Tunisian crochet hooks are well priced and absolutely suitable for beginners. They slide very easily through the mesh and have a smooth surface.

Trendz Tricot Afghan Traditional Crochet

Make your Trendz Tunisian Crochet Hook collection complete and buy our Trendz Tricot Afghan Traditional Crochet needles. These are provided with a stopper at the end. These types of Tunisian crochet hooks are especially suitable for beginners.

If you have not dealt with the Tunisian Crochet before, we have just given you some good reasons to do so right away. Take a look at our Tunisian Crochet needles on our website and start "Hakking" right away.

"Imagination means nothing, without doing." Charlie Chaplin

With that in mind, do something for your imagination and find the tools for it at Knit Pro.

Do you like this KnitPro blog? Do you want to read other interesting things about Knitting & Crochet? If yes please check our similar blog click here.

How to Read a Knitting Chart for Beginners

 

For many beginners this is a mystery and simply incomprehensible to read a knitting chart. Lots of symbols in a row and complexly structured - as a beginner, knitting charts are more confusing than they help. In this blog we would like to explain to you how such a knitting chart is structured and how to read it correctly.

First we want to clarify what a knitting chart is.

In a knitting chart, the stitches are shown graphically with symbols in a diagram. Usually it is the knitting of a repetitive area. The chart is structured in such a way that you have to read it from bottom to top. The boxes each stand for a stitch and each row of boxes for a row or round. The numbers around the edges indicate the numbers of the rows (or rounds).

The make are marked with symbols. Since there are usually no uniform symbols for certain stitches, every knitting chart should also contain a legend that explains the individual symbols. In magazines or books you can usually find these at the beginning or at the end of the manual.

Knitting Charts can also be structured in such a way that only rows from the right side are shown, in which case it is usually stated in the text whether the back row only needs to be knitted right or left stitches, so you should always pay attention to the text.

Red lines in the instructions make the pattern rapport, which is repeated, clear. Stitches outside the repeat show how the repeat is integrated into the knitted piece or how edge stitches are worked.

So now we come to how a knitting chart is read. Reading a chart always starts in the lower right corner and you work your way up row by row or round by round.

Front rows are the rows with odd numbers and back rows are provided with even numbers. The rows are read from right to left when knitting in rows. Read the back rows from left to right.

If you knit in the round it is easier, as you will not have to turn. So you can have both the even and the odd rows as shown.

As a beginner, you should mark important points in your knitting with stitch markers and, in order to work correctly according to the knitting chart, measure your work again and again with the help of a tape measure.

Another tip: With our Knitting Chart Holder you always have your knitting charts ready and with our magnetic bookmarks, built into our knitting chart holder, you will never slip in your ranks again. Our KnitPro knitting chart holder are therefore a must-have for every knitter who likes to work according to instructions and patterns and always wants to have them in view. Take a look at our Knit Pro Knitting Chart Holders or other knitting accessories and order immediately.

Best Crochet Hook and Size for Beginners

At KnitPro you will find a large selection of crochet hooks in a wide variety of sizes and made of different materials. As a beginner, it is particularly difficult to find the right crochet hook at the beginning. With this little guide, we would like to introduce you to some of our best crochet hooks and sizes for beginners and make your selection a little easier.

Jumbo

Our jumbo crochet hooks are made of natural wood and thanks to their perfect finish they slide through the stitches as if by themselves. These shiny and smooth crochet hooks are, as we think, perfect for every beginner because of their large sizes, as these needles and thick wool create large stitch structures so beginners can recognize and learn the stitches well. If you want to start crocheting now, don't wait so simply pick your Yarn, buy your KnitPro Jumbo Needles, and get hooked!

Zing

Our Zing crochet hooks are made of feather-light aluminum and therefore guarantee hours of crocheting without hand pain. For beginners, the light needles are particularly suitable in fine sizes, for example, if you want to crochet small Amigurumi with fine cotton. With the larger strengths, however, you can also needle a beautiful blanket as a beginner project. The needles are color-coded so that you can find the required size very quickly through the color. The smooth surface slips through your mesh as if by itself.

Bamboo Single Ended Crochet Hook

Bamboo is an all-time classic crochet hook material. Our needles are made from the best Japanese bamboo and guarantee a great crocheting experience from sustainable material. The single ended crochet hooks in large sizes are particularly suitable for beginners. With thick wool, you can create very clear and visible stitch patterns and make it easy for you to get started. Of course, we also have the bamboo crochet hook in finer sizes. See for yourself and take a look at our Bamboo Crochet Hook range.

Bamboo Tunisian / Afghan Crochet Hook Set

Would you like to start crocheting with Tunisian crochet? We also offer the best crochet hooks for this. With our lightweight bamboo Tunisian crochet hooks, you can easily learn the art of Tunisian crocheting, especially with the large needle sizes, large stitches can be formed and this makes learning easier for the beginning. As a set, you can equip yourself with all the necessary sizes and cables.

Basix

Our Basix crochet hooks made of wood are a must-have for every crocheter. These warm touch and gentle crochet hooks are also ideal for beginners. No matter in small or large needle sizes, these crochet hooks are the ideal tool for any beginner's project. Take a look yourself and buy our KnitPro Basix Single Ended Crochet Hooks.

Waves

Our Waves needles with a soft grip guarantee hours of crocheting experience without stressed and sore hands. Our Waves crochet hooks are perfect and colorful for every beginner.

The color-coded soft grips make it easy to find the size you need. The aluminum tips of the needles slide smoothly through your mesh. In medium sizes, these needles are very suitable for simple projects such as blankets or scarves for any beginner.

At KnitPro you are in good hands as a beginner and you will most certainly find the right tool for your first project from our wide range. Don't wait long and buy the best crochet hooks at KnitPro.

How to Crochet the Dragonfly Stitch?

Do you know the beautiful Look of the Dragonfly stitch? You can decorate many different projects with this stitch, such as a baby blanket, a jacket or maybe a scarf. Let your creativity take over your mind and body. But have you also asked yourself how these great patterns are crocheted? Here we explain very simply how you can crochet a Dragonfly Stitch yourself.

You can use yarn of any color and quality, but make sure you choose the correct size crochet hook for your yarn. At Knitpro we have a wide range of crochet hook sizes you can perfectly use for this Project. Choose the right crochet hook and you're good to go.

Row 01: Cast on 15 Chain stitches. 3 of the chain stitches are used as spiral chain stitches. Work a double crochet in the fourth chain stitch from the hook and 1 double crochet in each additional chain stitch until the end of the row.

Row 02: crochet 3 chain stitches and 5 double crochets. Make one chain in the air and skip the next stitch. Then crochet another six double crochet stitches.

Row 03: crochet 3 chain stitches and 2 double crochets. Chain three in the air, skip the next three stitches and crochet a single crochet in the gap in the chain stitch from the previous row. Chain 3 in the air and leave out the next 3 stitches. Now work 3 double crochets.

Row 04: Crochet 3 chain stitches and 1 double crochet. Chain 4 in the Air and leave out the next stitch and the chain stitch. Work one single crochet on the single crochet from the previous row. Crochet 4 chain stitches, leaving out the chain stitches and one stitch. Now you crochet 2 double crochets.

Row 05: Cast on 3 chain stitches and crochet 1 double crochet and 4 double crochets in the gap created by the chain stitch from the previous row. Now work a double double crochet on the single crochet from the previous row, 4 double crochets in the gap created by the chain stitches from the previous row and 2 double crochets.

Row 06: crochet 1 double crochet in each stitch.

Repeat rows 2 through 6 until you get the length you want.

It's that easy. The Dragonfly Stitch is done. Buy the suitable crochet hooks from us in the online shop, pick up your wool and off you go.

Have you a Christmas knitting plan yet?

I saw a sign in a shop window at the weekend listing how many Sundays were left to until Christmas. It didn’t make me rush inside to do some shopping but rather prompted some thoughts on planning for gift knitting.

We all know that gift knitting can get out of hand at this time of the year. So it is important to take a breath and ask yourself deep, searching questions – and you need to be perfectly honest here. How many hand knit items you want to give, what you are going to make and will it involve secret knitting?

Most of the horror stories about gift knitting or crochet are about running out of time. No one wants to be desperately sewing up hats or grafting the toe of a sock in the early hours of the morning following the work party or hiding in the bathroom with the yarn because the secret project is only half done.

Small knitted and crochet gifts may be as appreicated as a complicated sweater

Write your knitted or crocheted gift list now and try to work out how much time you will need to finish everything on the list – a timescale of more than a few weeks and you might want to plan for December 2019 instead.

Think about whether you are knitting for other knitters or for non-knitters. A non-knitter may not be aware how much time a jumper takes and will be equally touched by the thought and work that goes into a hat, socks or mittens that are perfect for them.

Equally a fellow yarn crafter may appreciate an intricate stitch or a stunning yarn choice on a small item.

And most importantly there is more chance of all of them actually receiving their presents if you choose smaller items to make rather than sweaters for everyone.

Even if you have already started making your gifts, it is worth answering these questions to see if your plans are on track.

Whether you are making one scarf or planning yarn gifts for 20 people we wish you all the best with your Christmas crafting plans.

Introducing the nostepinne – a great way to wind yarn

When the new products in the KnitPro collection arrived with the UK team, we learned a new skill and agreed our crafting life had changed forever. 

We absolutely love our nostepinnes, which are traditional Scandinavian tools for creating centre pull balls of yarn. Ours come in plain and coloured wood with a turned handle.

To make your ball, you handwind the yarn round the nostepinne in a specific way. Click here for a video demonstrating how to use it. It only takes a few minutes to learn and once you have practised a little you will discover this is a satisfying and relaxing way to wind up yarn.

As you can see, you can use a nostepinne to wind any yarn but I think most people would turn to their ball winder (if they have one) for 800m of laceweight for example. A nostepinne is particularly handy for winding small ball to be used in colour work or granny squares for example. It is also very useful for tidying up half used balls of yarn into neater cakes. Certainly we have been using ours regularly since we had the opportunity to test them out. 

Let us know if you have tried a nostepinne and tell us how get on if you buy a KnitPro one.