Needles and Accessories Spotlight 1/11

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Coptic Sock
Circa 1000 CE

A Brief History of the Knitting Needle

The knitting needle that we use today is a remarkably modern invention. This is the version you'll find in your own supply closet in a myriad of sizes and materials. Whether it's crafted of bamboo, ebony, aluminum or the carbon fiber composite used for the Stealth jet airplane, the modern needle has a long, tapered shaft that's pointed at one end and has a knob at the other to prevent stitches from dropping off. It's hard to believe that this exquisitely simple and practical tool was invented almost yesterday — in the 19th century — although knitting has been popular for over 1000 years!

Archeologists, historians and fiber fanatics alike marvel at the intricate detailing and remarkably fine gauge of our earliest known example of the craft — a pair of cotton socks dating back to Medieval times. These "Coptic Socks" from Egypt were knitted using sticks to create a stockinette stitch. Purling and other stitches had not yet been developed so multiple needles were used, knitting in the round. Sometimes these round tubes of fabric were cut open (a process now called "steeking") to create a flat piece of fabric.

Some archeologists suggest that the earliest needles may have been fabricated of metal — probably brass — in order to achieve the fine gauge used on the Coptic Socks. Can you imagine the painstaking effort and incredible patience that must have gone into knitting 10 to 12 stitches and 10 rows per inch?

Because the needles would have resembled very thin rods and sticks, it's possible that archeologists may never find examples of the tools. We may just have to depend upon their conclusions after examining the fabrics.

Madonna Knitting
Bertram von Minden
(c1345-c1415)

If we fast forward 400 years to the 1400's we begin to see knitting needles presented in works of art like the various "Knitting Madonnas" that depict the Virgin Mary. In these priceless paintings we have positive proof that knitters were using double-points. The craft continued to evolve with the introduction of purling and other new stitches, and examples of items that were created in those days are masterpieces of color, fiber and intricacy. Needles evolved to become unimaginably fine: some knitted items that remain have as many as 25 stitches and 32 rows to the inch!

As knitting became more widely practiced by the common man, a myriad of styles and tool preferences emerged. Today we have a mind-boggling array from which to select — straight needles, circulars, or space-age double-points.

Whatever you choose to knit, and however you choose to knit it, you can be certain that amongst the hundreds of needles available there's going to be one that's absolutely perfect for the task.

And to think that it probably got started over a thousand years ago with a couple of sticks and some thread.

If you'd like to re-create the Coptic Sock, there's a pattern for a child's version available online.

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Addi Turbo
Circular Needles

When you think of fast, smooth knitting you immediately think of Addi Needles. These Addi Turbo Circular Knitting Needles are quiet and rust-proof because of their Turbo finish. The snag-free nylon cord is flexible and snag-free so your yarn slides smoothly. Precision-made in Germany in 8 lengths. Sizes 0 to 36 U.S. (Size 36 is hard plastic, not metal.)

Denise Interchangeable
Knitting Needles Kit

These are fantastic for knitters who travel! Or for the knitter who likes everything in one convenient place. The Denise Interchangeable Knitting Needles kit features 10 pairs of needles sized 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 10.5, 11, 13 and 15. Circular needles are 17", 19", 20”, 22”, 24”, 26”, 28”, 33”, 40”, 50”, 58” and straights are 9½”, 13", 16”, 20”, 30”, 34”.

Hanging Circular
Needle Organizer

Travel Wallet

BagSmith Tool Tote

Lantern Moon Embroidered
Silk Needle Sleeve

Needle Notebook Pockets

Marilyn Silk
Needle Case

Isabella Needle Case

Prism Scarf

Angel Gauntlet

Fabulous Felines
3-Way Cowl

Mochi Chunky
Cropped Cardi

Stefanie's Striped Hat

Qiviut Heart Scarf

BagSmith Big
Stitch Needles

Here's a great, big idea! Inspired originally by U.K. designer Rachel John, these Big Stitch Needles are hand-made of lightweight basswood. They're great for rugs, capes, and blankets. Size 35 U.S. & 50 U.S. needles are available in 4 lengths ranging from 20" to 32." Use them to knit several strands of yarn at one time to use up your stash.

Crystal Palace
Straight Needles

Crystal Palace creates excellent quality needles in a variety of sizes and styles. These natural Japanese Bamboo straight needles are among the most popular of all their styles. Bamboo is a terrific eco-friendly fiber because it's the fastest growing plant on earth — up to 2 feet per day! These needles are available in 9" and 12" lengths in sizes 0 to 19 U.S.

Lantern Moon Sox
Stix Knitting Needles

Whether you choose the 5" version or the 6" version, you're going to love your Lantern Moon Sox Stix needles in smooth hardwood. Each set of five double-pointed needles come in its own silk chiffon and taffeta bag that's just the right size to slip into your knitting bag. Choose blonde, ebony or rosewood in sizes 0 to 5 U.S. including some rare half sizes.

Addi Click Interchangeable
Knitting System

This complete needle set gives you the most popular sizes of Addi Turbo needles (4 to 15 U.S. except for 5 & 10.5 U.S.) plus 3 different lengths. It features the famous quality points plus a new, extremely pliable blue cord (24", 32" & 40"). You also receive a connector to join your cable together as a stitch holder or to combine cords for longer lengths.

Laurel Hill Tunisian
10" Crochet Hooks

This is the hook you've been looking for! The Tunisian Crochet Hook from Laurel Hill is made by hand from exotic, durable Forest Palm Wood. It's extremely flexible and strong, which makes it very difficult to break or split. The honey-colored Trai Top with Forest Palm inlay is almost a work of art! We have sizes D-3 to N-15 U.S. in stock for fast delivery.

Lantern Moon Ebony
Double Pointed Needles

Crafted in Vietnam using generations-old techniques, these ebony double-pointed needles are 7" long and come in a set of 5. Ebony is one of the hardest and most durable woods in the world, and as you use your needles they become polished to a high-gloss sheen. Colors range from pure black to dark brown even within the same section of wood.

Laurel Hill 4-Sided
Forest Palm Needles

Knitters who suffer the pain of arthritis in their hands will appreciate these four-sided straight needles that are an absolute joy to hold. The comfortable shape also makes them ideal for teaching children how to knit. Crafted in sustainable Forest Palm that has a truly lovely grain. We have these very popular needles in 11" lengths in sizes 4 to 15 U.S.

Addi Turbo Lace
Circular Needles

Skacel has developed a specially designed Addi for lace knitting. These needles are lightweight with long, tapered tips that are more pointed than the regular Addi Turbos, but not too sharp. The polished brass tips are coated with a fine resin for added control. Sizes range from 24 to 60 inch length with a thin nylon cord, and tips from size 000 to 11 U.S.

Kollage Square Needles

These square needles help eliminate hand fatigue and make it easier for knitters with arthritis to enjoy their favorite past-time. Beautifully made of Forest Palm, the 11-inch straight needles are available in sizes 8 to 15 U.S. (6-10mm). They also come in circular needles with the innovative K-Kable that won't kink, kurl or knot; and aluminum double points.

Blackthorn Needles

Fashioned out of the same material used for the outer skin of the Blackbird Stealth Jet, these needles were an instant hit with our shoppers. We can barely keep enough in stock! Each 5-needle set is made in the U.S. by craftsmen and knitters so that quality is the top priority. Smooth, strong but more flexible than steel, and a warm touch.

Susan Bates

We love these super fat plastic straight needles. Not only are they perfect for quick-to-knit projects using super chunky yarns, they're perfect for teaching young people the craft of knitting — a productive hobby that will last a lifetime. The results are fast, so young knitters will quickly feel a sense of accomplishment. We have sizes 19, 35 and 50 U.S.

Daisy Circular
Knitting Needles

The lightweight, plastic Daisy needles are so popular that Crystal Palace has expanded the collection to include all the circular needle sizes and lengths you could need for your knitting projects. We have sizes 9 to 35 available in 4 different lengths, but the full size range available is only in the 29" & 40" length. These are a great value so stock up!

Pony Pearl
Straight Needles

If you're looking for big plastic straight needles that are also big on value, you'll want to check out these Pony Pearl straight needles. They're big and comfortable to use, and are great for teaching little ones. Also, they're economical enough that you could afford to buy all you need. 15.75 inch length.

Crystal Palace Bamboo
Circular Needles

These are among our most popular circular needles because they're crafted with ultra-smooth bamboo that feels nice to the touch and doesn't snag the yarn. They come in a wide variety of sizes from 0 to 19 U.S. in up to 35 inches in length. Many of our knitters buy these in pairs so they can create two socks at one time.

When a new project beckons, knitters delight in the exciting possibilities of a flattering pattern coming alive in the most perfect of yarns. Needles? Not on the excitement meter. The knitter’s most vital tool is often an afterthought: oh, sure, gotta have needles to do the job, but isn’t this sequined mohair too gorgeous? But the right knitting needle is as crucial to success as that luscious yarn.

Straight needles, or single-points, are the basic workhorses, the ones virtually all knitters first held to cast on those early stitches. For a scarf, a sleeve, or small projects designed to give beginners confidence, straight needles in a shorter length are the ideal choice; the 14” length straights accommodate more stitches, keeping the tension even and the whole row on display.

Double-pointed needles, the ones that come in packs of four or five, work for socks, gloves, sleeves or other small items knitted in the round. DPNs are also indispensable for creating I-cord or doubling as cable needles or stitch holders.

Circular needles, with a point at each end and a length of cord in between, accommodate great numbers of stitches, whether for afghans, or larger size sweaters worked back and forth. In varying lengths from 16” to 47” and beyond, versatile circulars are also the weapon of choice for sweaters, Fair Isle projects, or purses worked in the round. Circular needles have enjoyed a higher profile in recent years, in part because new materials such as stainless steel and superior nylon have replaced the old stereotype of the unruly circular. And creative designers have adapted sock, sleeve and other patterns to methods using single or pairs of circulars to knit these. “Magic loop” designs rely on a lone circular to perform what really does look like knitting magic, as it smoothly does what once required complex moves with several needles.

Interchangeable needles, first cousins to traditional circulars, are on the wish list of every knitter who does not own a set. Needle tips in various sizes connect to cords in almost every length, accommodating almost any pattern. The flexible cords can also serve as stitch holders, with stitches secured by buttons at either end. Tidily gathered in a sleek zippered carrying case, covering virtually every needle situation, interchangeable seems like a newly brilliant idea. But they’ve actually been around since the 1970s, when the Denise Interchangeables first appeared on the scene. The Denise needles are the best known of this type, with other companies introducing similar versions in recent years.

While needles fall into these basic categories, their individual materials are as plentiful as the choices as a gourmet ice cream shop, where one scoop, one flavor is never enough!

The streamlined needles of the 21st century can still be found in the plastic, wood and metal of our youth—but in greatly improved quality. Plastic is smooth, almost featherweight, in more colors than the giant Crayola box. Wood needles can be as exotic (and pricey) as hand-crafted ebony, birch or rosewood, or as basic as generic factory-produced woods, with maple, coconut and cherry wood versions falling between the extremes. Wood needles feel warm and comfortable in your hands, and yarns that might slip on plastic or metal will 'stick' reassuringly on the wood surface. Bamboo offers some of the same properties as wood, with a more affordable price tag.

If wood needles bring warmth, metal ones are cooler, lighter and faster. Today's stainless steel needles, along with the nickel and nickel-coated ones, fill the hurried knitter's need for speed, and are hard-wearing tools that almost defy destruction. Aluminum needles, the ones your grandmother used, are still widely available but unlike other metal needles, aluminum ones may bend and get scratched.

For the adventuresome knitter, needles of glass and casein—a byproduct of milk protein—are other options. And with such a wide choice, knitters can fit the needle perfectly to the project. Like an excuse to buy more yarn, the need for needles is an ongoing journey!

Helen's Lace
Pawprint Shawl

Here's a great piece to wear with everything from jeans to an evening gown. It's a lightweight shawl created with Helen's Lace yarn by Lorna's Laces. A fine pawprint pattern runs throughout, worked point to point with a garter stitch ground forming a long rectangle with soft triangular ends. Finished size is 19" x 68".

Amalfi Jacket with
Lace Panel

Don't you love this flattering, feminine jacket? It’s created with Amalfi yarn from Debbie Bliss. At the front is a simple moss stitch jacket with pretty shaping. But from the back, it's something truly special. A lovely, lacy panel is inset into the lower back with a button tab accent to create an elegant look that can be dressed up or down.

Kidsilk Haze Lace
Cap Shawl

Surround yourself in a luxurious halo. This over-sized lace shawl is created with Kidsilk Haze yarn from Rowan. The center of this project begins like a cap with panels going out from the center, hence the name of the garment. This touch of glamour has a finished diameter of 74". You’ll feel gorgeous pairing this shawl with a dress in the evening.

Big Wool
Holly Scarf

Looking for something quick and easy to make...without sacrificing fashion? You'll love this chunky scarf created with Big Wool yarn from Rowan. An easy garter stitch is used with simple patterning to create textured stripes along the way. This warm and cozy scarf can be made in oodles of colors — in stock for fast delivery! Finished size is 10 x 75".

Big Wool
Wanderer Cardigan

Reminiscent of Celtic patterns, this chunky cropped cardigan is created with Big Wool yarn from Rowan. Cables run around the top and bottom edges, separated by moss stitch around the middle. The sleeves are ribbed for an interesting change of texture. Hold it closed with a pretty Celtic shawl pin and you've got a fantastic fashion statement.

Ideal Mushroom
Tunic & Hat

Here are some little spotted mushrooms to make you happy! This adorable set is created with Ideal yarn from Bergere de France. The tunic sports a mushroom with bobble dots and the sleeves and hat copy the white bobbles on a bright red background. The look is whimsical and simply adorable! French fashion at its finest from Bergere de France.

Wild Stuff Silver
Plumes Shrug

Wild thing...you make my heart sing. You make everything groovy! This funky shrug is created with Wild Stuff yarn from Prism. It looks far more complicated than it actually is! Fancy yarns demand simple or clever silhouettes. Make a few miters and combine them with a ripple pattern for a shrug that is flattering and fashionable on everyone.

Mini Mochi
Eye Socks

With just two balls of colorful Mini Mochi by Crystal Palace, you can create this fabulous pair of socks. Using an eyelet pattern for the front and the back, these socks are sensational in the multi-hued, self-striping color combos of this yarn. The lacy details create a style beyond your typical basic socks without making them too difficult to knit.

Kureyon
Basic Socks

Looking for a basic sock that looks more difficult than it is? This ribbed pair is designed to take advantage of Noro's self-striping Kureyon Sock yarn without being complicated. So you can impress your friends and family with your skill and only you'll know that the striping developed automatically from the patterning of the yarn. Brilliant...and yet so easy!

Big Stitch Cozy
Vest & Scarf

This super-warm vest and scarf are created with Big Stitch Alpaca yarn from BagSmith. It’s a super easy piece to create on huge needles. Eyelet around the bottom edge is a nice delicate touch on a cozy, chunky vest. The scarf is a pattern of drop stitches. You can’t even imagine the softness and warmth of this coordinated set. Scarf is 4.5" x 80".

Cashmere Ring
Around the Toesies

These multi-directional socks are created with soft, luxurious Cashmere Sock yarn from Artyarns. The clever pattern combines with an amazing yarn with gorgeous colorways by Iris Schreier to create the ultimate in sock knitting. You'll enjoy creating this little bit of heaven for your feet! Believe us...they’ll worth the effort!

Namaste Sushi Hat

This fun, trendy hat is created with Charmed yarn from Namaste Farms and is trimmed with Ultra Alpaca Light from Berroco. A simple cap with earflaps is made special with this exquisite yarn lovingly hand-dyed and hand-spun with glass beads added during the spinning process. Choose the Sushi beads or one of the other fabulous Charmed yarns. Namaste Farms Yarns are truly unique.

Find fantastic knitting
needles at everyday
low prices!

AslanTrends
ChiaoGoo
HiyaHiya
Knit Lite
Susan Bates
RedHeart

Great selection.
Great savings.
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You could win a Knitting Needles Prize Package worth over $150 by entering our Spotlight contest. The package includes a Denise Interchangeable Knitting Needles kit, Addi Turbo Circular Needles (24", Size 9 US), Lantern Moon Sox Stix (5", Size 5 US), a set of Lantern Moon Straight Needles (12" in Sizes 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 US) plus a della Q Lily Combo Needles case to store your new needles.

To qualify, you must answer this skill-testing question: "In what decade were Denise Interchangeable Needles introduced?"

Send an email with your answer to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Make sure the subject is: Spotlight on Knitting Needles.

All entries must be received by midnight, January 31, 2011. We'll announce the winner of the contest in the next issue of Spotlight!

Congratulations to Dusti G. of Alberta who won our Spotlight on Knit One, Crochet Too contest in December.