‘I have enough tools, said no knitter ever’. A knitter’s stash must have all knitting needles, tools, accessories, and most importantly yarn. So if you are a proud knitter and still do not have your own set of Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles, then it’s time you get one. These circular needles are perfect for all kinds of knitting projects such as socks, hats, scarves, sweaters, and even blankets. Interchangeable knitting needles are rightfully the mark of the journey from ‘knitting as a hobby’ to ‘knitting as a craft’. And if you have taken up knitting for the practice of mindfulness, the interchangeable circular needles are the perfect fit.
While you may have used circular needles, there is a true joy for a knitter in using an interchangeable needle set. ‘Mindful' is one word that describes interchangeable knitting needles. The mindful knitting needles are a way to focus on the stitches, enjoy the present moment and hone the art.
Before you begin knitting with the interchangeable circular needles, let’s guide you through what comprises these needle sets and what to keep in mind while choosing one and explaining how to use them.
What Are Interchangeable Knitting Needles?
Interchangeable needles are circular knitting needles that come with cords that can be changed or removed as per the need of a project. These needles only enhance the positive attributes of circulars by offering a choice of cords of various lengths. The best part is, you can do flat knitting and circular knitting with the same needles.
Before understanding how to use interchangeable needles, first take a look at the different parts.
Needle tip: Available in almost all materials and sizes, the knitting needles generally come in two lengths. The needle tips come in 2", 4" & 5" in US sizes (2.5 - 17). For fine lace and fiber work, the smaller needles are used while the larger needles are for knitting socks and other projects.
Cords: An interchangeable needle set comes with different length cords in sizes between 16" to 60". The cord length mentioned is usually the final length with needle tips attached.
Cord keys: Changing cords in interchangeable needle sets can be done with special cord keys. This key is inserted into the hole in the cord’s metal join to twist to loosen or tighten the join.
Cord Connector: Need an extra-long circular knitting needle for a project such as for a blanket? An interchangeable needle set comes with cord connectors that can assist you in this. You can connect different cords to create a long set.
Stoppers: Many times you will be in need to remove needle tips from a project while the project is kept on the needles and for this interchangeable have stoppers that allow you to.
How to choose an Interchangeable Knitting Needle Set?
The preferred material of needles, tools, and accessories depends on the personal preference of a knitter. It is hard to say that any particular material is “better” or “worse” than another, or more or less appropriate.
For interchangeable knitting needles and sets, it is important to understand the needle tip, cord, and the joint where cords attach to the needle tips. The needle tips like other needles are available in materials such as metal, stainless steel, wood, plastic, carbon, etc. The choice of the needle material is a personal preference but it is important that the cord be flexible, memory-free, and smooth. The joint is to be especially noted that it should be smooth so that the yarn does not snag.
How to Use Interchangeable Knitting Needles for Mindful Knitting
Interchangeable knitting needles are assembled by attaching the needle to the cord to form one circular. When knitting, interchangeable are used like any other circular knitting needles.
Step 1: Cast the stitches on both needles, distributing them evenly.
Step 2: Place a marker on the last cast-on stitch to indicate the end of the round.
Step 3: Be sure to keep all your stitches even. Any twisting will result in the unraveling of stitches.
Step 4: Work until you reach the marker again; this completes the first round.
Step 5: Slip the marker to the right needle and work the next round.
When you’re knitting in the round with interchangeable needles you need to knit every row as if it were a right-side row. For knitting stockinette, knit every row and for garter stitch, alternate your knits and purls. And, when you’re reading a charted pattern, each row is read from right to left.
While knitting flat with interchangeable circular needles, use them like any other knitting needle. Knit back-and-forth and turn the row to the right/wrong side at the end of each row.
Now that you know everything about interchangeable circular knitting needles, let’s conclude with this saying.
"Amazing what the application of a knitting needle could do for one's manners."
- Lauren Willig, 'The Orchid Affair'.
The use of interchangeable needle sets will certainly change your manners. You will practice mindful knitting and mindfulness. Firstly, you will be at ease as you have the lowest chance of losing a needle. Secondly, the knitting tools and accessories will be much more organized at these needles come in a case. Thirdly, you will be comfortable as the weight of the knitting project stays on the cords that can stay in your lap. This will make you complete your projects faster. Lastly, you can take up any project by just changing the cord length.
Mindful Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles
So, are you ready to choose interchangeable circular knitting needles? Choose from our range of interchangeable needles and sets designed for the mindful practice of knitting. Mindful Collection’s interchangeable circular knitting needles are made of stainless steel that has proven positive attributes. Each of the needles carries an inspirational mantra that keeps you focused on mindfulness. The Mindful Collection presents an exclusive range of circular needles that comprise multiple combinations. The Interchangeable needle sets are a worthwhile investment. They come in US sizes 2.5 - 17 (3 mm to 12 mm), with smart cords that range between 16" (40cm) to 60" (150cm) with numerous accessories such as different types of cord connectors, cable key, stitch markers, end caps, darning needles, and much more.
Knitting is a crafty way of mindfulness, so choose and practice the mindful path. If you want to explore the other circular knitting needles, follow our blog on fixed circulars.
