Have you ever found yourself standing in front of a wall of knitting needles, feeling completely lost? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Choosing the best knitting needles for beginners can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of options available. But fear not! With my practical knowledge and experience, I’m here to guide you through the process and help you find the perfect needles to start your knitting journey.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different materials, sizes, types, and lengths of knitting needles, and discuss their pros and cons. So, let’s unravel the mystery of knitting needles together and set you on the path to knitting success!
5 Best Knitting Needles for Beginners
*Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience and evaluation.
| Image | Product | |
|---|---|---|
Best Choice  | WooCrafts Large-Eye Blunt Needles
| Check Price |
Also great  | Knitting Needle Set, BCMRUN 22PCS
| Check Price |
GREAT TOOLS FOR DIY LOVERS  | Bamboo Knitting Needles Set BetyBedy
| Check Price |
made from Bamboo Wood  | Bamboo Knitting Needles Set Vancens
| Check Price |
High Carbon Steel  | Clay Tools Kit Luney
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WooCrafts Large-Eye Blunt Needles
From my experience, the WooCrafts Large-Eye Blunt Needles Yarn Knitting Plus Crochet Hooks Set is an excellent addition to any knitter or crocheter’s toolkit. I’ve been knitting and crocheting for years, and I’m always on the lookout for tools that can enhance my crafting experience. This set certainly delivers in terms of functionality and convenience.
Quality Craftsmanship
One of the standout features of this set is the quality craftsmanship. The crochet hooks are made of alloy steel, which ensures they are durable and long-lasting. The smooth finish of the hooks allows yarn to glide effortlessly, making the crocheting process more enjoyable. The ergonomic handles, made of soft rubber, provide a comfortable grip, which is crucial for those long crafting sessions.
Versatility in Hook Sizes
The set includes a variety of hook sizes, from B (2.0mm) to J (6.0mm), which covers a wide range of projects. Whether you’re working on delicate lacework or chunky blankets, you’ll have the right hook at your fingertips. The colorful handles not only add a fun touch but also help you quickly identify the size you need.
Inclusive Accessories
Beyond the hooks, the set comes with a range of accessories, including large-eye blunt needles for weaving in ends, knitting stitch markers, and a crochet hook case. These extras are incredibly useful and make this kit a great value. It’s convenient to have all these accessories in one place, especially if you’re crafting on the go.
Perfect for Beginners and Experienced Crafters
This set is suitable for both beginners and experienced crafters. If you’re just starting out, the ergonomic handles make it easier to learn and crochet for longer periods without discomfort. For seasoned crafters, the variety of hook sizes and the quality of the hooks themselves make this set a valuable addition to your collection.
A Thoughtful Gift
If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for a crafty friend or family member, this set is an excellent choice. The included case makes it easy to present as a gift, and I wouldn’t blame you if you decided to keep it for yourself—it’s that good!
Lifetime Replacement Guarantee
One feature that gives peace of mind is the lifetime replacement guarantee for the crochet hooks and large-eye blunt needles. It’s a testament to the manufacturer’s confidence in the quality of their product.
Knitting Needle Set, BCMRUN 22PCS
I always appreciate a good set of knitting needles, and the BCMRUN 22PCS Straight Single Pointed Stainless Steel Sweater Needles Set certainly caught my attention. Here’s my opinion after thoroughly examining this knitting needle set:
Quality and Material
From my experience, the quality of knitting needles is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable knitting process. The fact that these needles are made of stainless steel is a significant advantage. Stainless steel needles are lightweight and exceptionally smooth, which means your yarn won’t snag or catch while knitting. This is a big win for anyone who values a frustration-free knitting experience.
Variety of Sizes
A diverse range of needle sizes is essential for different knitting projects. This set provides an impressive 11 pairs of straight knitting needles, covering sizes from 2mm (B) to 8mm (L). Having a variety of sizes at your disposal allows for versatility in your knitting projects. You can easily switch between needles depending on the thickness of your yarn and the pattern you’re working on.
Length and Markings
The extra-long length of these needles (36cm/14.1 inches) is a definite advantage, especially for larger projects like blankets or shawls. Each needle is marked with its size, which is incredibly convenient for quick identification, ensuring you grab the right needle without having to measure it each time.
Additional Accessories
This set includes valuable accessories like large-eye blunt needles, knitting stitch markers, a knitting needles bag, and a measuring tape. These extras make it an all-in-one kit, perfect for both beginners and experienced knitters. The storage bag is a nice touch, making it easy to keep everything organized and portable.
Widely Applicable
I appreciate the fact that these needles are suitable for various knitting projects, from sweaters and hats to scarves, gloves, socks, and more. They make an excellent gift for DIY lovers and beginners looking to explore the world of knitting.
Pros:
- High-quality stainless steel needles
- Wide range of sizes
- Extra-long length
- Size markings for easy identification
- Valuable accessories included
- Versatile and suitable for various knitting projects
Cons:
- Needles may bend easily if excessive force is applied, so handle with care.
Overall, this set is an excellent investment for knitters of all levels, providing the tools needed to create beautiful handmade pieces.
Bamboo Knitting Needles Set BetyBedy
I recently had the chance to try out the 36PCS Bamboo Knitting Needles Set by BetyBedy, and I must say, I’m quite impressed with what this set has to offer. I always appreciate having a wide variety of needle sizes at my disposal, and this set certainly delivers on that front.
Smooth and Lightweight
The bamboo knitting needles in this set are incredibly smooth and lightweight. They’ve been carefully bleached and carbonized to ensure a smooth finish, which means no rough edges that could snag your yarn. This feature is crucial for a comfortable and hassle-free knitting experience, especially during those long crafting sessions.
High-Quality Single Pointed Needles
I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of these single-pointed needles. Made from sturdy bamboo, they offer the right amount of grip to prevent your yarn from slipping off. This feature reduces the chances of having to redo your work, which is a common frustration for many knitters.
Full Range of Sizes
One of the standout features of this set is the wide range of sizes it offers. With sizes ranging from 2.0mm to 10.0mm, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle various knitting projects, from delicate lacework to chunky sweaters. Having this comprehensive selection in one set is a real convenience.
My Verdict
From my experience, the 36PCS Bamboo Knitting Needles Set by BetyBedy is a fantastic addition to any knitter’s toolkit. It offers a smooth and comfortable knitting experience, a wide range of sizes, and it’s suitable for crafters of all levels. Plus, the price point is excellent for the value you receive.
Bamboo Knitting Needles Set Vancens
I’ve had the chance to work with various types of knitting needles over the years. When I came across the Vancens Circular Bamboo Knitting Needles Set on Amazon, I was intrigued by the promise of a versatile and comfortable knitting experience. Here are my impressions of this knitting needle set:
Material and Feel
One of the first things that caught my attention was the use of bamboo wood for these circular knitting needles. Bamboo is known for being lightweight, smooth, and durable, making it an excellent choice for knitting needles. I appreciate that these needles have no chemical smell, and they feel natural in the hands. This is a significant advantage for those who may have joint pain, as the smoother and lighter bamboo needles require less tension, reducing strain on the hands and wrists.
Variety of Sizes
This set of circular knitting needles comes with an impressive range of sizes, from 2mm to 10mm. The diameter of each needle is permanently marked, making it easy to select the right size for your project without any confusion. Having 18 different sizes at your disposal means you can tackle a wide range of knitting projects, from delicate lacework to chunky sweaters, all with the same set of needles.
Convenience
One of the standout features of these circular needles is their circular design. Unlike traditional straight needles, circular needles eliminate the need for constantly switching cords or worrying about stitches falling off. This makes for a more efficient and seamless knitting experience, especially for larger projects like blankets or shawls. The inclusion of a handy thumb rest adds to the overall comfort and ease of use.
Durability and Maintenance
While bamboo knitting needles are generally durable, it’s worth noting that the plastic tubes may have a slightly pungent smell initially. Allowing them to air out for a few days before use can help alleviate this issue. Additionally, users should be cautious not to bend the needles excessively to prevent breakage.
Overall Verdict
In summary, the Vancens Circular Bamboo Knitting Needles Set offers a comfortable, versatile, and convenient knitting experience. With a wide range of sizes and included accessories, it’s a valuable addition to any knitter’s toolkit. While there may be some initial odor from the plastic tubes, this minor drawback doesn’t overshadow the overall quality and functionality of the needles.
Knitting needles Desert Breeze Distributing
I recently had the opportunity to try out the Precision Felting Needles for Wool by Desert Breeze Distributing, and I must say, I’m thoroughly impressed. These German-made needles are a game-changer for both beginners and experts in the world of needle felting.
German Precision
First and foremost, the German precision that goes into making these needles is evident from the moment you start using them. Groz-Beckert of Germany is renowned for producing top-quality needles for needle felting, and these needles live up to that reputation. The high carbon steel construction ensures their strength and the smooth polished finish provides precise control over the wool fibers.
Perfect for All Skill Levels
Whether you’re just starting out in needle felting or you’re an experienced artist, these needles are a fantastic addition to your toolkit. Beginners will appreciate the high-quality needles as they embark on their felting journey, while experts rely on precision tools like these to create their intricate and beautiful art.
Variety of Sizes
One of the standout features of this set is the inclusion of three popular needle sizes: 36 gauge star, 38 gauge star, and 40 gauge spiral/twist. These sizes cover a wide range of felting needs, from sculpting with wool to 3D and 2D felting. The high-quality construction ensures that these needles will outlast and outperform cheaper alternatives.
Color-Coded Convenience
I particularly love the color coding on these needles. Each size is represented by a distinct color, making it incredibly easy to pick the right needle for your project. The 36 gauge star (orange) is perfect for quick felting and joining coarse wool, the 38 gauge star (blue) is ideal for sculpting and finer wools, and the 40 gauge spiral/twist (green) is superb for fine details and finishing work.
Safe Storage
To top it all off, the set includes a metal sharps container for safe storage or disposal of used needles. This container is a thoughtful addition to any craft storage or needle felting supplies kit.
In conclusion, the Precision Felting Needles for Wool by Desert Breeze Distributing are a must-have for anyone serious about needle felting. Their German-made quality, variety of sizes, and color-coded convenience set them apart from the competition.
Comparing the Best Knitting Needles for Beginners
| Product | Description | Pros | Cons |
| WooCrafts Large-Eye Blunt Needles and Crochet Hooks Set | Set includes crochet hooks made of alloy steel in sizes B-J, large-eye blunt needles, stitch markers, and crochet hook case. | High-quality hooks, variety of sizes, inclusive accessories, suitable for beginners and experienced crafters, lifetime replacement guarantee. | – |
| BCMRUN 22PCS Knitting Needle Set | Set includes 11 pairs of stainless steel straight knitting needles in sizes 2mm-8mm, measuring tape, stitch markers, large-eye blunt needles, and storage bag. | High-quality stainless steel, variety of sizes, extra-long length, size markings, additional accessories included, versatile for many projects. | Needles may bend if excessive force applied. |
| BetyBedy 36PCS Bamboo Knitting Needles Set | Set includes single-pointed bamboo knitting needles in sizes 2.0mm-10.0mm. | Smooth and lightweight bamboo, high-quality needles, full range of sizes. | – |
| Vancens Circular Bamboo Knitting Needles Set | Set includes 18 sizes of circular bamboo knitting needles from 2mm-10mm with plastic cables, connectors, and thumb rests. | Lightweight bamboo, wide range of sizes, circular design, included accessories. | Possible initial odor from plastic tubes. |
| Desert Breeze Distributing Precision Felting Needles | Set includes 36, 38, and 40 gauge felting needles made in Germany, color-coded by size, with sharps container for storage. | High-precision German needles, suitable for all skill levels, variety of sizes, color-coding for convenience, safe storage. | – |
Needle Size Tips for Newbie Knitters: What You Need to Know
- Yarn Recommendations: Many experienced knitters recommend starting with a yarn that has a suggested needle size on its label. This can be a helpful starting point because the yarn’s label suggests the ideal needle size to use for that specific yarn.
- Moderate Needle Size: As a beginner, it’s advisable to avoid both extremely large and extremely small needles. Needles that are too big can be challenging to handle, while very small ones make it hard to see the stitches. A good starting point for needle size is around 4-6mm (US size 6-10).
- Try Different Needle Types: Some knitters suggest trying different types of needles, such as circular needles, to see what suits you best. Circular needles can be versatile and comfortable, even for flat knitting projects.
- Avoid Plastic Needles: While personal preferences vary, many knitters advise against starting with plastic needles. Metal and wooden needles are often favored for their durability and ease of use with various yarn types.
- Experiment and Find Your Preference: Ultimately, the best needle size for a beginner can vary from person to person. It depends on factors like your hand size, the yarn you choose, and your personal comfort. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different needle sizes to find what works best for you.
- Don’t Rush: Take your time to explore different options and find the right fit for your knitting style. Don’t invest too heavily at the beginning; start with a few basic supplies and build your collection as you gain more experience.
The Quest for the Best Knitting Needles for Beginners
My investigation showed that the key factors for beginner knitting needles are:
- Material – Smooth and lightweight is best to prevent hand strain.
- Tip design – Blunt tips prevent stitches from slipping off.
- Size range – Variety is crucial to accommodate different yarn weights.
- Affordability – Beginners want quality without breaking the bank.
After extensive research, I determined the Bamboo Knitting Needles Set by BetyBedy to be the leading contender for beginner knitters.
Here’s why these needles excel in the key areas:
- Material: The premium bamboo offers a perfectly smooth finish that won’t snag yarn. The lightweight design prevents hand fatigue.
- Tip design: The needles have gently rounded tips to keep stitches in place, unlike sharp tips that can lead to frustration.
- Size range: With sizes from 2.0mm to 10.0mm, beginners can comfortably knit anything from socks to sweaters.
- Affordability: At just $16.99 on Amazon, this set gives unbelievable value without compromising on quality.
The bottom line? For hassle-free learning and crafting, the BetyBedy Bamboo Needle Set has beginners covered. The outstanding performance across all key factors makes these the obvious choice for new knitters ready to start their journey.
Building Your Beginner Knitting Toolkit
Here is a table of additional equipment to work with the best knitting needles for beginners:
| Equipment | Details |
| Yarn | Choose a beginner-friendly yarn like wool, cotton, or acrylic in a light color. Have a few different weights on hand from bulky to fingering. |
| Stitch markers | Plastic rings to mark important stitches. Helpful for beginners. |
| Row counter | Track your rows as you knit. Can be manual or digital. |
| Tape measure | Essential for measuring gauge and length of projects. Get one with metric and imperial units. |
| Scissors | Sharp scissors specifically for cutting yarn and notions. |
| Knitting needles case | Canvas case with pockets to store your knitting needle sizes. Keeps them organized. |
| Removable stitch holders | Allows you to temporarily hold live stitches while working on another section. |
| Crochet hook | Used for binding off, fixing mistakes, or adding edges. Get one in a small size like 4mm. |
| Knitting needles | Include sizes ranging from 2mm to 8mm for working with different yarn weights as a beginner. |
Useful resources
Here are 3 other useful resources I recommend checking out when choosing the best knitting needles for beginners:
This guide from KnitPicks offers an incredibly helpful overview of the various knitting needle materials — https://www.knitpicks.com/needles/guide-to-knitting-needle-materials/c/300013. I particularly like their detailed pros and cons breakdown for metal, wood, plastic, and carbon fiber needles. Their clear explanations helped me better understand the impact of needle material as a beginner.
Craftsy’s comparison of needle tip types was eye-opening for me when I was deciding between tapered, pointed, or blunt needle tips — https://www.craftsy.com/post/knitting-needle-types/. The visuals and straightforward descriptions made it easy to comprehend the differences and pick the right tips based on my skill level and project needs.
If you’re still wavering between options, I highly recommend browsing the beginner knitting needle sets reviewed by VeryWellCrafts — https://www.verywellcrafts.com/the-9-best-knitting-needle-sets-for-beginners-5089466. Their detailed reviews examine all the specs and include photos of each product so you can make the best choice for your needs.
FAQ
What size knitting needles are best for beginners?
Medium sizes between 4mm-8mm are ideal for starters. This allows you to knit worsted-weight yarns for simpler beginner patterns.
Which material is easiest – metal, wood, or plastic?
Smooth wood like bamboo or laminated birch offers warm tactile feedback without slipping. Plastic and nickel-plated metal are also suitable beginner options.
Should I get interchangeable knitting needles as a beginner?
Not necessarily. Interchangeable sets allow combining cords and tips but are pricier. Fixed circular or straight needles are a more affordable starting point.
What length of knitting needles is best for a beginner?
Opt for standard 10-12 inch long straight needles, or circular needles with a 16-24 inch cable, to have enough room for your hands and knitting.
Is it okay to start with cheap knitting needles?
Quality entry-level needles will make learning easier. However, you can start with affordable needles while building skills, then invest in premium tools down the road.
What knitting needle tips should a beginner choose?
Blunt, rounded tips are ideal for beginners. Sharp, tapered tips can split yarn and pointy tips allow stitches to slip off easily, adding frustration.
How many knitting needles do I need as a beginner?
Start with one pair in a few key sizes – 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 7mm, and 8mm. This selection allows you to follow a wide variety of beginner patterns.
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