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β Ralph Waldo Emerson
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Hello there fellow knitter!
This is The Yarnist. The daily newsletter that makes you love knitting the same way Bill Lumbergh loves memos.
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Knitspiration
π§ Are Square Knitting Needles Better?
I discovered square needles about a year after I started knitting.
While at a trade show I was introduced to the owners of Kollage.
They literally invented the concept of a square needle.
Before then I had never considered a needle with any other shape than round.
But their unique shape fascinated me, and I was eager to try them out.
Once I go my hands on some square needles I was sold.
Here's a few reasons why...
Square double pointed needles from Kollage
Increased Comfort
I find square needles a lot easier to hold. It may sound counter-intuitive, but it's true.
The flat edges give my fingers more surface area to grip. And the square shape just feels more natural in my hand. β
Fatigue Reduction
I don't have arthritis, but one common benefit knitters report is reduced stress on their hands.
If you do get pain from knitting too long, square needles can reduce that strain. It MAY allow you to knit longer.
Swatch knit with square needles (Left) and round needles (Right)
Better Stitch Tension
This is by far my favorite reason to use square needles. I find that my stitches are WAY more even when knitting with them.
I think it's because the yarn has more friction wrapping around the four corners of the needle, resulting in stitches with a more consistent size. β
They Look Cool π
There's something to be said for aesthetics. Every time I use my square needles on camera or in public people want to know what they are and where I got them.
Maybe it's not that important but it makes me feel good.
Swatch knit with Addi Rocket Squared needles
Square needles are not the novelty they once were 10 years ago.
As I mentioned, these are the OG square knitting needles. These are made in North America from solid aluminum and come in versions with soft and firm swivel cables for their circulars. I have a bunch of these and LOVE them (I prefer the firm cables).
They aren't cheap BUT the company that owns them is a non-profit that gives employment opportunities to people with disabilities. And since they aren't made in Asia I think they're worth the extra expense.
These wood needles, like all KnitPicks needles, are made from a laminated birchwood. The colorful design is fun to look at, and the wood material is warm in the hand.
Available in interchangeable and circular options, these are an affordable alternative to the Kollage needles.
If you are fan of the super fast Addi needles then these square versions make a good thing better.
These needles have slightly rounded corners, making them more comfortable to hold. There's also little divots along the sides, allowing the yarn to move smoothly across the needle without sticking.
And not only do they have circular and interchangeable options, they also have square FlexiFlips, an alternative to double points that is FAR superior for those who love to knit socks.
Conclusion
Personally I LOVE my square needles, and will not hesitate to add more to my collection in the future.
But what do you think?
Have you knit with square needles before?
Hit reply and share your experience!
We'd love to hear your feedback.
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Daily Stitch
The Uneven Rib Stitch
I love a good rib stitch, especially when it adds some texture while still being stretchy.
Sometimes referred to as the "mistake rib," this pattern uses a one row repeat to create it's unique look.
Everything you ever wanted to know about knitting can be found in the knitting encyclopedia.
From the history of knitting to cast on techniques to different ways to hold your needles. It's all there from start to finish with more than 1000+ photos to illustrate every step!
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