The Top 3 Interchangeable Knitting Needle Sets: Which One is Right for You?
Do you love knitting but often find yourself searching for or having to buy more and more knitting needles for each pattern you make? Having an interchangeable needle set could be the solution you’re looking for! In this post, we're going over everything you need to know about interchangeable knitting needle sets, including how to use them, their pros and cons, and my recommendations for the best interchangeable needle sets out there.
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What are interchangeable knitting needle sets?
Interchangeable knitting needle sets are like a treasure chest of needles for knitters. These sets contain a variety of needle sizes that can be used interchangeably with different lengths of cables. This means you can switch between different sizes of needles on the same cable, making them super versatile for a wide range of projects.
How do you use interchangeable knitting needle sets?
Using interchangeable knitting needle sets is as easy as pie. Simply select the needle size you need for your project and attach it to the desired cable length. Once the needle is attached to the cable, you can start knitting your project. It's like having multiple sets of needles in one!
Pros of interchangeable knitting needle sets:
Versatility
Interchangeable knitting needle sets are great for knitters who like to switch between different projects. They allow you to have multiple needle sizes on hand without having to purchase individual sets of needles.
Also, because you can knit both flat and in the round with circular needles, which is what interchangeable needle sets come as, you can use your interchangeable knitting needles for a wide range of projects!
Space-saving
If you're someone who lives in a small space, you know how valuable space-saving solutions can be. Interchangeable knitting needle sets are perfect for this because they save you the hassle of storing multiple sets of needles, which can take up a lot of space.
Cost-effective
Although interchangeable knitting needle sets can be expensive upfront, they are a smart investment in your knitting hobby. They are a cost-effective alternative to buying individual needles and cables, and they will save you money in the long run.
Sustainable
One way to improve the sustainability of your already sustainable practice of knitting is to get an interchangeable needle set! Instead of having to buy a new set of needles for each project you make, you can cut down your consumption by investing in interchangeable needles. Having a set of interchangeable knitting needles limits the amount of needles you need as well as all the additional packaging and shipping that comes with buying individual sets of needles.
10 awesome ways to be an even more sustainable knitter!
Cons of interchangeable knitting needle sets:
Limited sizes
Although interchangeable knitting needle sets provide a wide range of sizes, they may not cover all the sizes you require. This is especially true if you're a knitter who likes to experiment with different needle sizes.
However, most sets allow you buy additional, singular needles that work with the set you have. That way, you can essentially expand your set to include more knitting needle sizes. You can also purchase additional cord lengths as needed!
Additional pieces
With interchangeable knitting needle sets, you have additional pieces to keep track of, including the cables and connectors. It can be frustrating to lose a cable or connector when you need it the most. But again, you can always purchase singular pieces if they become lost. No need to be afraid of having to buy a whole new set!
And don’t forget ! Having an interchangeable knitting needle set actually helps you cut down on having many pair of individual knitting needles.
The Best Interchangeable Knitting Needle Sets
When it comes to finding the best interchangeable needle sets, there are a few that I believe stand out above the rest. These sets are the Kollage Square Full Interchangeable Kit, Lykke interchangeable needle set, and the Chiagoo Twist Red Lace Shorties. Let’s go over each one and which might be the best for you.
Kollage Square Full Interchangeable Needle Kit
First up is the Kollage Square Interchangeable Gold Edition! This set includes 11 sizes of 5.5" tips, along with two separate sets of both firm and soft cables ranging from 24 inches - 60 inches (61 cm - 152 cm).
Kollage Square needles have a unique square shape that can help reduce hand fatigue and make it easier to knit for longer periods of time.
Personally, I often feel wrist and arm pain when working with cotton yarn. However, with Kollage Square knitting needles, I have been able to work with cotton pain-free!
Made from high-quality stainless steel, these needles are strong, durable, and easy to work with. The set also comes with a carrying case, making it easy to store and transport your needles.
This set also has a great mechanism for inserting and removing the cables from the needles. Unlike the other interchangeable knitting needle sets listed below which have the needles screw on to the cables that can become unscrewed and annoying while you’re knitting, these needles lock into the cables. You have to use their included interchangeable tool to remove the needles, but it is quite easy and quick to do!
If you’re interested in shopping this set or any of Kollage’s square knitting needles, use my code NEWWAVE10 to get 10% off your purchase!
Lykke Driftwood Shorties
The Lykke Driftwood Shorties interchangeable needle set is perfect for knitters who want a versatile set that is easy to use and of high quality. It comes with a range of needle sizes, from US 3 to US 10.5 (3.25mm to 6.5mm), and three cable lengths, which can be combined to create a range of circular needles of various lengths. Made from high-quality birch wood, the needles are smooth and easy to work with.
This set includes unique "short" needle tips, which are 3.5” long. These needle tips are shorter than traditional needle tips, making them ideal for knitting small items like socks and sleeves. However, even though they are shorter needle tips, you can still use them for a wide range of projects, including sweaters and tees. If you prefer to have a set with longer needle tips, this set has 5” needle tips. Whichever length you go with, the Lykke interchangeable needle set a must-have for any knitting enthusiast. And the shorties set is my personal go-to!
Chiagoo Twist Red Lace Shorties
Another great set is the Chiagoo Twist Red Lace Shorties. This set includes 12 sets of 2" and 3" needle tips ranging from US 0 to US 3, along with 5, 6, and 8 inch cables. These needles are made from high-quality stainless steel, which is strong, durable, and easy to work with. The set also comes with a compact carrying case, making it easy to take your needles on the go.
When working with smaller sized needles like the ones included in this set, it is a good idea to have them be metal. Wooden knitting needles are more prone to snapping and breaking when they are this size, but metal needles are extremely durable.
While the Chiagoo Twist Red Lace Shorties is a more limited set, don’t forget that you can also purchase additional needle tips and cord lengths to use with it. If you mainly work on larger projects or prefer to have longer needle tips, then I recommend the Chiagoo Twist Red Lace 4 inch complete set.
Interchangeable knitting needle sets are an excellent investment for any knitter. They're versatile, space-saving, cost-effective, and even more sustainable. When it comes to finding the best interchangeable needle sets, the Lykke Driftwood Shorties, the Chiagoo Twist Red Lace Shorties, and the Kollage Square Full Interchangeable Kit are all great options to consider. Each set offers its own unique features and benefits, and all three are sure to make your knitting projects even more enjoyable. So go ahead and invest in yourself and your craft! You’ll find it is absolutely worth it.
Do you have any interchangeable needle recommendations, thoughts about investing in a set, or any questions? Comment below!