14 Tools Knitters Are In Love With
Whether you’re just learning how to knit or are looking to take your craft to the next level, these are tools that will help make your knitting journey much easier and even more enjoyable. From knitting needles to stitch markers to blocking mats, in this blog, we’ll cover all the tools you’ll need for your handmade works of art. So grab your knitting bag and join me for a tour of tools that knitters can’t live without!
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Must-have Knitting Tools
1. Knitting Needles
To knit, you have to have some knitting needles. Knitting needles come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing knitters to find the perfect needle for any project.
If you’re just trying out knitting for the first time, I recommend simply shopping for whatever type of needle your first projects call for. As you become more familiar with knitting you may realize that you prefer needles made from a certain type of material, or that you’re preferences depend on what you’re knitting.
For example, my go-to needles are the Lykke Driftwood Shorties Interchangeable needle set. I prefer working with wooden needles, and I found investing in an interchangeable needle set has actually saved me money in the long run since I don’t have to buy a new needle for every project I decide to work on.
However, I have learned that I prefer working with metal needles when knitting socks. Because sock needles are typically 2-3mm, they are very thin and can snap easily. After learning that the hard way, my go-to sock needles are the ChiaoGoo 9” circulars.
Again, there are lots of types of needles out there. If you’re just learning how to knit, it can easily become overwhelming. But no need to stress! Just start out with getting what your project calls for, and you’ll figure out your preferences and if you want to invest in an interchangeable needle set as you keep learning.
2. Yarn
Yarn comes in countless colors and weights, providing knitters more options for texture, color, and pattern in their projects. Whether buying new, buying pre-owned, or swapping with friends, there’s something for everyone.
However, finding the perfect yarn for a pattern can be difficult and require some research. You want to find a color that you love, but you also need to make sure it's a similar size to the recommended yarn in the pattern.
When it comes time to buy yarn for a project, my biggest tip is to compare your desired yarn’s weight and yardage to the recommended yarn in the pattern. Simply comparing weight categories unfortunately isn’t the most accurate. If yardage is within 20 yards, it will likely be a good fit!
And if you’re ever in the need for a worsted weight yarn that you can really rely upon, check out the Everyday Merino from Twice Sheared Sheep. This superwash yarn is extremely durable, doesn’t pill, feels amazing, and comes in lovely colors!
3. Scissors
Every knitter needs a good pair of sharp scissors among their tools. It's an absolute must for trimming clean ends. My favorite scissors are these Star Dust Rainbow Embroidery Scissors.
Not only are they sharp as heck, but they are cute to boot! It feels like an absolute treat every time I use them. Check out other cute scissors!
4. Tape Measure
You would be in a sore spot as a knitter if you didn’t keep a tape measure handy. Not only used to measure the size of your works-in-progress or your body but they can also be used to measure gauge and width. Having a flexible tape measure is important so you can be sure to accurately measure any curves. This tape measure will meet all your knitting needs, and it's easy to retract and store!
5. Removable Stitch Markers
Stitch markers are must-have items used by knitters of all skill levels. Simply place the markers on your needles or stitches to indicate special stitches, key pattern points, where to increase or decrease, etc. You’ll likely need at least one stitch marker for every project you knit. I recommend getting a couple of types of stitch markers. Removable stitch markers are very versatile and functional. They allow you to adjust their placement if you need to.
6. Clip-Style Stitch Markers
Clip-style markers are similar to removable markers but are especially handy in helping to fix dropped stitches. You can also place clip-style markers on your latest row at the beginning of the week or each knitting session to help give you a visual of how much progress you’ve made!
Having an assortment of colors, styles, and functionality in your stitch marker collection is useful, and it can provide some added fun to your knitting project! Keep your stitch markers in a handy bag so they're always nearby when you need them.
Tools that will level up your knitting
While the tools above are basic necessities for any knitting practice, the tools below will make your knitting practice easier and even more relaxing.
7. Row Counter Stitch Markers
If I had to pick my favorite knitting notion of all time, it would be row counter stitch markers. These markers can be placed onto the knitting needles to help you keep track of rows. Rather than fumbling for a misplaced traditional row counter, or stopping your knitting to make a hash mark on the pattern, these row counter markers allow you to effortlessly keep track of how many rows you’ve worked so far. Simply move your needle to the next chain after each row, and move the little clip (that’s included) along the chain to mark your ten’s place! They allow me to knit faster with fewer worries that I didn’t count a row. I could not recommend them more for leveling up your knitting practice!
8. Increase and Decrease Markers
These nifty markers would rank as my second favorite knitting notion of all time. Increase and decrease markers can be used to mark the beginning of your row or round. Switch between the chains with each row. If the counter says K, then knit. If it says I then increase, or if it says D then decrease. Never forget to increase or decrease again!
9. Right and Wrong Side Markers
Have you ever been working on a pattern and forget which side is right or wrong? Well, never struggle with that again with these right and wrong side markers! Clip them onto the front and back of your work and never wonder again.
10. Knitting Needle Point Protectors
Knitting needle point protectors are a great addition to any knitter’s knitting bag. They help to prevent stitches from slipping off the ends of your needles when you aren’t activity knitting. Plus, if you’re knitting with straight needles, it keeps the needles together and prevents your loose one from wandering off.
11. Knitting Project Bags
Knitting project bags come in handy for storing, organizing, and carrying your knitting tools, yarn, and knitting projects with you. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can find one that suits your needs and preferences!
And if you’re a cat person, you might just like this one.
12. Cable Needles
If you love knitting cables or are interested in giving them a try, then these cable needles will make your life so much easier. They come in 3 popular sizes, are made out of smooth bamboo, and are a perfect size so they won’t get in your way!
13. Stitch Gauge Ruler
Measuring gauge is absolutely essential for each and every knitting project. Not having an accurate gauge can lead to horrible consequences, such as ending up with a knitted item that is far too big or small. Having a gauge swatch ruler on hand can make the necessary gauge process easier!
This gauge swatch ruler is a great addition to your craft closet that will help you measure 4-inch (10 cm) swatches, and this one is perfect for measuring 1-inch (2.5 cm) swatches for socks!
14. Blocking Mats
To give your handmade knits a professional finish, it is an absolute must to block. Blocking your knits helps set the stitches and make them nice and even when they are dry. Now, you can eyeball your knits and lay them out on a towel, but it’s hard to get your work perfectly straight that way, resulting in knits that sit a little wonky once dry. Using blocking mats helps to ensure your edges are nice and straight, and your knits are as beautiful as they deserve! This blocking kit comes with all you’ll need to make your knits nice and even.
Having the right knitting tools can make your knitting experience even more enjoyable. We hope that this blog gave you all the information you need to stock up on all the essential notions you’ll need to take your knitting to the next level. Which tool do you think will make the biggest difference in your knitting practice? Comment below!