How to Choose Between Double-Pointed and Circular Knitting Needles

Selecting the appropriate knitting tools for working in rounds is as crucial as choosing the ideal yarn when starting a new project. Knitting needles are a knitter's most important tool, and sometimes it becomes difficult to decide which tool is better between circular and double-pointed knitting needles. Both are suitable for various projects and each has special benefits.

You can easily knit with both needles, however, it's a personal choice when working in the round. For example, if you want to knit sweaters or hats you can work with DPNs or circular ones but the only difference is the comfort level. Let's explore the specifics and assist you in selecting the right needle that best suits your knitting requirements.

Understanding the Double-Pointed Knitting Needles

Double-pointed needles have points on both ends of the needle and usually come in sets of five. They are used for round knitting, especially for designs with small circumferences like mittens, hat crowns, or socks. It eliminates the need for seams and lets you knit in circles with ease.

You can explore the knitting needle material of KnitPro such as Symfonie, Dreamz, and Ginger. Many knitters prefer the Zing and Karbonz series because of their strength and smooth stitching. DPNs are quite good at managing minor tubular projects. They make it simple to move, and manage your knitting, particularly for small-circumference projects. You can browse our blog on knitting in rounds with double-pointed knitting needles.

Understanding the Circular Knitting Needles

Two short needles joined by a flexible cord make up a circular knitting needle. They are a favorite among many contemporary knitters since they are comfortable and used for flat and round knitting. These needles are available in two varieties - fixed and interchangeable. In fixed needles, the cords are permanently attached to the needle tips. They are excellent for certain tasks and available in different lengths and you can easily attach or change the cord. For larger crafts like blankets, shawls, or sweaters, circular needles are ideal. By distributing the project's weight, the cable lessens the pressure on your hands and wrists.

Circular needles are less likely than DPNs to drop stitches because of the flexible cord. Refer to our blog on how to knit in the round on the circular knitting needles. Many times projects started on circular needles are completed on DPNs as the circular needles are not able to accommodate all the stitches and vice versa.

When to Use DPNs

If you are working on small projects, DPNs are the best options. These are the ideal tools if you're knitting gloves, stockings, or anything else that's too small for circular needles. They are excellent for complex designs where control and accuracy are essential, such as cables and lace.

Tips When Working with DPNs

● Keep in mind to divide the stitches evenly but use one needle to cast on stitches and then transfer them accordingly.

● It is important to knit the gauge swatch in round, it will give an idea of how your project will look.

● Make sure you add stitch markers in the right place.

● It is essential to protect the needle tips and stitches, so if you are planning to travel outside, keep them in a proper craft bag.

When to Use Circular Needles

When working on projects that call for a large number of stitches, circular knitting needles excel. They are perfect for making blankets, scarves, and sweaters. They are quite adaptable because they can work in the round and flat. Additionally, circular needles are simpler to handle and transport than DPNs if you're constantly on the go.

Tips When Working with Circular Needles

● It's important to choose the right needle length. The length should be slightly shorter than the circumferences of the finished project.

● To prevent too much slack, or tightness choose the appropriate cord length for your project.

● Use a magic loop when working on smaller projects.

Things to keep in mind when selecting the DPNs and Circular Needles

● Pattern Instructions: Always check the instructions when starting a project. You can first start the project as per the designer's guidelines, if you don't like the style then you can change the needles. It is easy to switch because both work similarly.

● Number of Stitches: Knitting small projects like socks, hats, and gloves that can be knitted in DPNs or circular ones. Some knitters combine both approaches.

● Work on circumference: In the round knitting projects, your focus is on circumference rather than length.

Knitting needles, whether circular or double-pointed, are essential tools for any knitter. It all comes down to knowing your comfort level and the requirements of your project. As you have more experience, you'll probably come across situations where one type performs better than the other. You will soon become an expert at selecting the ideal needles for each knitting endeavor if you embrace the learning curve and try both.