Knitting needles come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and they are made from several kinds of materials. Here's what you should consider before choosing from the various types of knitting needles.
Single-point needles are the most common needle and used for lots of different flat patterns. They're straight, cylindrical and very rigid. They are often made of aluminum, steel, plastic or various woods. Beginners should consider bamboo or clover needles because they offer a bit of sticking action. Yarn has a tendency to slip off other smoother materials, especially if you're not used to how it feels.
If you're going to knit a seamless round item like a hat, mittens, socks or the body of a sweater, you should choose a circular needle. They're flexible and usually made of nylon cord tipped with metal, plastic or wood. Some circulars are slippery and allow experienced knitters to knit faster than with single-point needles. So they're also a good option for large projects, such as a blanket.
Double-point needles can also be used to knit circular patterns. They're similar to single-point needles, but instead of using two, you use a set of four. Since double-pointed needles can be tricky to maneuver, you might want to stick to ones made of wood so that the stitches won't slip.
When you buy your needles, you also need to consider both the length and diameter. Often the pattern you use will recommend a needle size, but there are some basic guidelines you can follow, and much of your decision will be based on your personal taste and comfort. A good length to start with is a 9-inch or 10-inch needle. Once you're experienced, you may want to go up to a 24-inch needle for sewing bigger projects, like sweaters or bags. For large blankets, you could go as big as a 47-inch needle.
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