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Product: Kollage Square Knitting Needles
Review Date: May, 18 2009
 
Who are these needles for?
Besides yarn, needles are the only other essential tool that a knitter needs. Needles have been fashioned from all sorts of materials, but traditionally have always been round sticks. Now Kollage Yarns has taken a fresh look at the question of round versus square by introducing Square™ needles and crochet hooks. These unusual needles are intended to ease hand strain for those who have arthritis, carpal tunnel, tennis elbow or stiffness in hands and fingers. They are designed to be ergonomically suited to your hands, so that you have less stress and strain from pinching round needles. The needles are sized the same as round needles although some knitters find they need to go up one size to obtain the same gauge as with round knitting needles.
What are they made of?
The circular needles are made from high grade aluminum and feature a kink and coil-free cable. Many knitters report they can knit faster with more uniform stitches using these needles.
Using Them
Square needles look so different from the standard needle that you may expect them to function very differently from standard needles. Surprisingly, you’ll notice very little difference in knitting with square needles, although the manufacturer strongly recommends that you knit a swatch for gauge becase most knitters will want to go up one size to achieve the correct gauge. You may think that the needles will feel clumsy and you’ll need to learn to knit all over again, but they function just like any other pair of needles. I tested the straight needles and found them very lightweight. I liked the medium points that were just sharp enough to dig into the stitches without splitting the yarn. The yarn glided over the smooth surface, but I had no problems with stitches popping off the ends of the needles, possibly because of the square shape of the needles. I experimented with stockinette, garter and lace stitches and found the stitches were just as uniform as with standard needles. The needles were comfortable to hold and, while I do not suffer from a lot of hand strain, I think the more relaxed grip would ease strain and would be worth a try for anyone who suffers from pain that keeps them from knitting.
The Benefits
Testimonials from happy users describe relief from hand strain. Users state that the needles are easier to hold than round needle and the yarn glides over the smooth surface easily. They report more uniform stitches and gauge, and overall claim these needles are superior to round needles.
Recommendation
These needles may revolutionize the knitting world, yet they will be a welcome tool for many users. If hand strain is keeping you from enjoying knitting, consider giving these well-made needles a try. For many, knitting bulky yarns on super-sized needles (size 13 and up) induce hand strain because it is difficult to maintain a comfortable grasp while manipulating large diameter needles. Square™ needles can be a better choice of needle in the super-size needle sizes. Beginners, especially children, will be able to grip Square needles better than round needles. If you knit with cotton or other inelastic yarns, these needles will bring welcome relief to the hand strain that usually comes with these fibers. Finally, think of the conversations you could start at a Knit Out with the combination of knitting in public with square needles.
Overall Recommendation  to 
These needles are worth a trial run, especially if hand strain is keeping you from enjoying your craft. For the average knitter, I rate them #7 for their quality and functionality. However, if you find these needles relieve your hand strain, they will rate #10. The only way to know is to test them out, and I encourage you to try a pair for your next cotton project.
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