This is Knit Vlog - Let's Talk Tools
July 03 2019 – Nadia Coburn
In this episode, Jacqui takes us through the needles and hooks in This is Knit. From straight needles and circular to different types of crochet hooks, Jacqui gives us a brief overview of the differences of each type.
We know that the choice of needles and hooks when you start out is overwhelming. If you're unsure, you can always pop in and have a chat with a member of staff.
Often we find that some people prefer wood, some prefer the weight of the metal tips and some prefer straight needles. There is no right answer just find the tools that feel relaxing and fun to use for you.
Do you have a favourite?
This is a fun question that we get a lot in This is Knit, and each member of staff will give you their own personal answer. They will each be able to tell you why. Maureen loves the Chiagoo small circulars while Nadia prefers double-pointed needles for small circumference knitting.
We always recommend trying out a variety of needles/hooks before investing in a set. It can be fun exploring the different materials through a few small gift projects or accessories.
The right tools can make a big difference to the enjoyment of your project - just ask Lisa about the time she tried to pair an alpaca/silk lace weight yarn with stainless steel tips - the combination was so slippery as to be unworkable. Switching to pointy wooden tips made all the difference, with that touch of extra grip the process of making a light lace shawl became much more enjoyable...
How about you? Do you have a favourite set to use? Why do you love it so? Let us know in the comments.
4 comments
There’s just so many options and characteristics to consider, right? It seems like you’ve landed on a brand you really like now – and that you’re not alone. ChiaoGoos get a lot of love any time we ask this question :)
I have set of Addi and Chiagoo. I prefer the later. I like the tips and the cords are alot more flexible. I he find Addi tips (turbo) are duller and not crazy about the cords.
Yes, it’s definitely all about choice :) The hot water trick is a good one though, and I’ve heard of people using the heat from hair dryers for this task too! I think the wood can really come in to its own with particularly slippy yarns – anything with a high silk content particularly. That said, I’m very taken with my small collection of ChiaoGoos now too ;)
Lisa
Without a doubt – ChiaoGoo Red Lace Interchangeable circs and Hiya Hiya sharp interchangeable circs. I generally only use metal and the sharper the better and prefer the “slideability” of the metal. I also pefer the ChiaoGoo cables as the others have to be dipped in hot/boiling water to straighten. Have never had a problem with the joins on the ChiaoGoo or the Hiya Hiya. I find wood difficult (whether KnitPro or Lykke as they are not sharp enough and I miss the “slideability” factor. Yet, it’s great to have choices, isn’t it?