Why Are Knitting Needles Different Sizes?

Knitting can be a great pastime that can allow you to develop your coordination skills and produce some cool-looking stuff. However, if you’ve ever spent any time in the knitting aisle at your local craft store, you’ve likely discovered there are a plethora of different sizes of needles in stock. Understanding the appropriate needle to use with each project can make or break the look of your final result.

Why Are Knitting Needles Different Sizes? Different projects require different size needles due to the yarn that is used. Generally, the larger the yarn, the bigger the needle size.

Let’s Talk Size

Knitting needles come in a variety of sizes, all of which are made for a specific purpose. These sizes are denoted by numbers with the smallest being the smallest needle. The smaller the needle you chose, the thinner the yarn will be that you’ll use for your desired project.

You’ll find knitting needles listed with both metric sizes and US sizes. It’s imperative that you pay close attention to what the size is stating as a 7 US is a much different size than a 7mm needle. You may from time to time also see UK sizes included in the needle marking which runs on an opposite system than the US. You can use online converters to understand what US size is equivalent to the metric or UK sizes if there is no US marking on the needle.

The project that you choose will dictate what particular size knitting needle you will need to use. If you’re new to knitting, you’re likely working from a pattern that will tell you which needle size is recommended. If you choose your yarn to work with first, you should find a recommended needle size on the packaging that works well for the weight of yarn that you choose.

Various Materials On The Market

Knitting needles can be made out of a variety of different materials. The most popular is made out of wood, more specifically bamboo. Others are made out of metals like aluminum and plastic. Choosing the particular material that you use for your knitting project will depend on your personal preference and a couple of other factors.

In general, newbies to the knitting world tend to work better with bamboo needles. This is because it’s much harder for the yarn to slip off of the needle and it causes a delay on the stitching. Those who are more experienced in this practice tend to opt for metal needles that provide a slipper base which allows their stitches to fly off of their needles.

Different Types Of Needles

It’s important to realize that knitting needles will come in different end offerings. There are five main needle ends which include circular, straight, interchangeable, cable, and double pointed. Circular needles tend to work for all types of projects and should be your go-to if you’re just starting out in the knitting world.

Straight needles are what most people picture when thinking about knitting needles. They’re great for smaller projects that require mostly flat work. Some examples of these include afghan squares, sweaters, scarves, and washcloths.

Larger knit projects can be completed more efficiently with circular needles. These are somewhat similar to the straight needles, except for the fact that they have a flexible cord that connects them. These are available in permanently joined needles or interchangeable pieces if you want to convert your straight needles. Ideal projects include blankets and shawls.

Double pointed needles are ideal for smaller projects that you’ll knit in the round. Their middle is flexible and can allow you to work with fewer needles throughout the entire project. Great projects for double pointed needles include hats, gloves, and mittens.

Cable needles look a bit odd at first but their benefit becomes clear as soon as you start your first stitch with them. This handy tool works great for keeping your active stitches safe while you’re moving your project around. These particular needles are perfect for creating a twist or cable in your project that allows it to stand out from a traditional knitting piece.

As with discussing the various needle types that are available on the market today, it’s also important to note the various point types. Most knitting needles have a point and it can make a big difference in the way that you knit.

Sharper points are great for stitching with a high level of accuracy when using fine yarn. Rounder pointed needles are great for your bulkier yarns and are recommended for children looking to take up this hobby.

The Nitty Gritty Of Needle Sizes

Now, you should have a fairly decent idea of the variations between knitting needles. You know what they’re made of, how they look, and why there are various sizes offered on the market today. Let’s take a look at the specific size offerings that are out there for you to choose from so you can get a better idea of what needle you should be using for your desired project.

Sizes 000 – 1

The tiny needles of the knitting world are meant for those who are regulars when it comes to producing materials. These are best utilized for projects that require intricate lace work or similar projects. These needle sizes can be harder to find as they’re more of a specialty item.

Sizes 1 – 3

When it comes to socks, this is the size to pick. Needles in this range are ideal for most of the stock yarn material that you’ll find at your local craft store. Socks, shawls, and blankets tend to be the ideal projects for this size of knitting needle.

Sizes 3 – 5

This needle size is best used with sport-weight yarn. Some popular projects with this needle size include sweaters, baby blankets, and more socks. This material is thicker than yarn handled by your lower sizes which makes it ideal for creating the cozy feel.

Sizes 5 – 7

Knitting needles in this size are perfect for DK-weight yarn. This is what you’re going to want to make your winter projects out of as they’re a much heavier material than others already listed above. Popular projects for this needle size include scarves, sweaters, and gloves.

Sizes 7 – 9

This is going to be the most popular knitting needle size that you’ll find both newbies and experienced knitters using. They get paired with worsted-weight yarn. This is the perfect combination for newbies to learn what they’re doing and be able to see their stitches.

Sizes 9 – 11

If you’re looking for quick knitting, then you need to get knitting needles in this size range. You’ll be working with chunky or bulky-weight yarn that is very famously known for being a quick knit yarn. It’s recommended to get yourself circular shaped needles when dealing with this heavier yarn as it will be a lifesaver to keep a hold of the yarn during your knitting practice.

Sizes 13 – 17

As you start to get into these bigger needle sizes, you’ll notice that there are only odd numbers. There are no even knitting sizes bigger than a 10. These bigger needles are preferable for heavy materials like cable.

Sizes Over 17

Any knitting needle over the size of 17 is intended for use with jumbo yarn. This is a newer weight category to hit the knitting market which is just starting to spark up in popularity. A good word of advice is to think about purchasing these jumbo needles in plastic as they’ll be much lighter to use than their metal alternatives.

In Conclusion

Knitting is a great way to relax and produce some handcrafted goods that you can be proud of. If you’re just getting started with this hobby, it’s important to understand the basics of knitting needles.

The above information should be enough to assist you in determining what needle sizes you’ll need to pick up and how to determine which size is best for each project that you decide to undertake in the future.