How to use Double Pointed Needles for Circular Knitting?

Circular knitting is the form of knitting of creating tubular projects such as socks, hats, sleeves of sweaters, etc. Double pointed needles (DPNs) are a practical choice for circular knitting. The needles have been used for knitting in the round for centuries and to date are preferred by knitters over others.

Unlike single pointed needles that come in a pair, DPNs come in a set of four or five as these needles work together to knit in the round. The double points allow the knitter to work on both sides. They are particularly helpful for small-circumference projects, ones that cannot be worked on circular knitting needles. Like all knitting needles, they are available in standard US sizes and typical lengths of 4-8 inches to work on small projects such as fingers of gloves to large sleeves of sweaters, necks, etc.

double pointed knitting needles

How are double-pointed needles used?

When working with double-pointed needles there are three major steps

Cast on: The basic step to cast stitches on a needle that will be later picked for knitting. In the case of DPNs cast on stitches on one needle and then distribute to the three of four needles, you need to work on while the fourth or fifth needle is kept free to work. The key to casting on DPNs is to distribute stitches equally.

Joining the round: Once you have distributed the cast on stitches on the needles, now the next step is to join them. Arrange the needles in a triangle if you are using three DPNs or a square if you are working on four DPNs. Knit one by one on each needle starting with the one where you first cast-on stitches. Complete one round of knitting on the needle arrangement and you have successfully joined the round.

Finishing: Once you continue with knitting according to the pattern instructions, you will have guidelines to bind off. Many patterns will instruct you to bunch up the stitches and weave the ends with a finishing needle or bind off with a particular method.

The key to working on DPNs is managing the knitting needles. The quality and make of needles have a key role to play. Lantern Moon’s handcrafted double pointed needles are perfect for the occasion. A popular range of knitting needles, crochet hooks and accessories, Lantern Moon is a collection that delights knitters with their fine craftsmanship. The beautiful ebony knitting needles are exceptionally smooth, allowing you to work across the needles more easily without snags. All are made by hand and polished to a silky finish.

What you’ll love about Lantern Moon double-pointed needles:

·        Smooth, strong, and comfortable to work with

·        Create the smallest projects in the round with ease

·        The transition from one needle to the next is smooth thanks to the smooth surface and  perfectly shaped tips

Working with double-pointed needles is a handy way to knit in the round. The alternative of using circular knitting needles and the magic loop technique is also preferred by many knitters. But, once you have mastered the DPNs you will never be going back!

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