TINY CIRCULAR KNITTING NEEDLES: A REVIEW & COMPARISON

[@cportwi]

A tutorial for using the 9 inch circulars would be fantastic and sooo appreciated. Kristine, thank you so much for your informative and engaging podcast. I’m grateful for the time and effort you put into all your thoughtful, high quality presentations!

[@Meadow414]

Oh yes please can you show us an easy sock tutorial?!

[@BeYou4You]

Yes, Yes, Please!!!

[@maipensapparot]

has it come out yet?

[@drummerlovesbookworm9738]

Ohmygosh YES! I want you to do a sock-making tutorial!!!!! My other suggestion is that you put out the questions/improvements we beginning sock-ers would request for the filming of it because you would not believe the tragic outcome of this sock I just made because of steps and information skipped in the tutorial. I may be especially dumb, but somehow I ended up with inside parts knitted on the outside and a big drama at the end trying to scrunch on my Addis and what did I do on the ribbing?? One time my yarn attached to the ball was at the bottom of the knitting. This sock fits my leg and my granddaughter’s foot. We can share it. LOL! It’s okay because I’m putting this horrific sock in a shadow box to hang on the wall as an artifact and calling it ‘outsider art.’ Help! Xojennyinseattle

[@yvettescheiman4991]

That was hilarious! Suddenly I don't feel so all alone... ; )

[@marjeanboyd3811]

I am not a sock knitter (yet), but I do have a pair of Chaiogoo 9 inch circulars which I use to make mitered square afghans in baby weight yarn for donation to my local NICU. I love them. They allow me to knit quickly and easily, but the best part is that I never lose one needle down in the cushions of my favorite chair!

[@collenelollar2425]

because I am a new knitter I find the selection of needles overwhelming. (although I have crocheted for the better part of 40 years). I have never been able to master knitting until about a month or so ago. being on a limited budget I would not and could not do a comprehensive comparison like you have so I really appreciate your insight and advice. thank you very much. so chiaogoo it is. thank you again.

[@BigShelley]

I actually emailed you about wanting this video, but since then I found out Chiaogoo is planning to release a set of "shorties" interchangeable needles. The sizes are 0-3, including half sizes) and you'll get 2" and 3" tips and 5, 6, and 8" cords to make total lengths between 9 and 14" (you can use a 2" and 3" together to get different lengths). They all use the mini cable size. I don't think they're going to be released until June, but I'm SO EXCITED that they're coming out with this set. Chiaogoo's website has almost no information about it (that I could find), but the Handsome Fibers website has a lot of information. I put myself on the waiting list so I can be notified when they come out!

[@kristaatkeson6692]

I just heard about these new Chiagoo Needles too. Can't wait!

[@cjnooney6849]

I have been using Clover 9" for years and enjoy them a lot. I like 9" because I can't "lose"a needle as with dpns. I do use dpns for the heel flap and toe, but don't mind. Thank you for sharing all this information, I found it very interesting.

[@osos3574]

Oh thank you for the eiting info...

[@BigShelley]

I think one of the things I'm most excited for is being able to assemble a variety of short needles to do sweater sleeves. I hate using magic loop for sleeves! The set is only going to come with size 0-3, but apparently you will be able to needles through size 8 separately. I have a hard time justifying buying a variety of sizes of 12" needles for sleeves, but I'd certainly buy them if they were interchangeable. June is just too far away!

[@osos3574]

You are completely right about 12'' needles. Some companies have fied 12inch circular needles but not interchangeable. ChiaoGoo has 12'' circular needles www.amazon.com/ChiaoGoo-Circular-Stainless-Knitting-6012-1/dp/B003BS36U4 KA (Kinki Amibari) has 12'' needles (they are amazing bamboo needles) www.purlescence.co.uk/Catalogue/Needles/Brand/Kinki-Amibari/Kinki-Amibari-Bamboo-Circulars/KA-Bamboo-Fixed-Circulars-12-30cm Addi has 12inc circular needles www.paradisefibers.com/products/copy-of-addi-turbo-circular-12-inch HiyaHiya has 12'' circular needles www.amazon.com/HiyaHiya-Circular-12-inch-Knitting-HISTCIR12-8/dp/B005N41PH0 But to be honest I prefer ChiaoGoo 12inch circular needles more. I can't wait for those new set..... Thank you very much again for the info.... Loads of love

[@ampm3098]

Thank you for taking the time for doing this comparison. I loved it and it’s now an excellent reference that I will pass along to members of my knitting group. I love 9 inch circulars and dpns and now I’m in love with the addi flex and blight every size! I find that with the 9 inch circulars your hands have to adjust their grip and that may feel weird for some but after a few rows you don’t notice and you are knitting like a breeze. I think this review helps others to venture out and try new things! Thank you!

[@Karanodom]

i would love a video on your knitting on 9 inch needles.

[@elizabethhoffmann8059]

First. I apologize. I was thinking... just get to the reviews already. Found the chapters. Got straight to the reviews and OH MY GOSH! The clarity and detail of your reviews! I'll be going back to the introductions. Worth it. Thank you!. Liked and subscribed!

[@dorothymullaney9494]

Oh my goodness, I would love to see how you knit socks on a 9" circ! Thank you, and thanks for the informative videos!

[@marywanamaker2700]

I’m a new knitter, this was very informative. Thank you so much.

[@SSKYarners]

I looove tiny needles and use them to knit socks and sleeves all the time! I use Addi 8” circs & found they’re not to sharp & the cord is flexible. I knit English style and learned how to “flick” with my right hand and found it very easy to transition. Socks fly off my needles now! I also cast-on, rib, & knit heel flaps with 8-9” circs! 🙋🏻‍♀️

[@virginiamackintosh7816]

The only 9-inch circulars I’ve ever used are the Chiao Goo. I love them! I’ve never had a problem with cramping, and - like you - I use them for the entire sock except the toe. Thank you for reviewing all these different brands. You’ve saved me from the need to explore beyond my favorite.

[@TinyFibreStudio]

Everything I’ve seen about the Addi needles with the two different tip lengths (they're known as Sock Wonders in the UK) says you’re supposed to knit with the long end, not the short one. That’s the way I used them on a sleeve recently and they worked well for me. You've got more needle to manipulate stitches with. This might vary depending on knitting style but I’m a continental knitter as well and found them pretty comfortable once I got used to them.

[@Ansel_Here]

Yes please do a video on making socks with tiny circulars.

[@barbarasmith483]

Yes, ma'am. Absolutely a tutorial knitting socks.

[@WendyDussault]

I am a new knitter and crochet mostly until I discovered continental knitting that was a game changer for me. I would love a video of you making socks on 9" needles and I want to master this because the other ways look to complicated IMHO. Liked & Subscribed!!! Alberta, Canada.

[@Karanodom]

you spent incredible research time on this video! thanks

[@kathryncobb5244]

Wonderful video! I knit Portuguese style, exclusively, and I always have socks on my 9” ChiaoGoo Size 1 circs. I cast on 60 stitches and knit a 20 row 1X1 or 2X2 rib then start my sock pattern or plain stockinette. I do a Fish Lips Heel (my favorite because of no fiddliness) or a wedge heel and usually a wedge toe with a Russian graft. My gauge is usually 8 1/2 to 9 st/inch. I knit the entire sock except for the shaped toe with the circs. I have also knit the same sock inside out because purling is simpler in Portuguese knitting than knitting. Everything came out the same but I did not save any time purling inside out because I had to manage the curl over the needles and the grip was more awkward. I hold my hands lightly on the needles with needles at a 90 degree angle when crossed. It is very easy to control the first stitches on the needles then. I manage to keep a not -too-tight tension by easing up the needles a teensy bit after making the stitch so that the yarns fluffs to fill up the space between stitches on the needle before I start the next stitch. This loosens the tension on the back of the stitch and is an intuitive move. I very rarely have dropped stitches and am trying to learn how to knit while not looking now. Thank you so much for all the research you do.

[@judithmullin390]

Perfect timing, I was going to try knitting socks with the small circumference needles. Which one to try was my question and now you have solved it. Since I already favor Chiaogoo needles for my regular knitting, they will be my first choice. Thank you for your extensive review.

[@noradavid8275]

Phew! What a relief! Yes video, please 😊

[@n.ayisha]

i absolutely love the level of (scientific) control you apply in doing these comparisons. your clear-cut criteria and consistency make for what are (bar none) the most reliable reviews of the kind. thank you so much for all the time and work it takes to make that happen. now... pardon me while i go buy some circular sock needles. p.s. i agree entirely regarding the Hiya Hiya tips. they are my favorite needle brand at present, but those tips did hurt a lot (until i developed a bit of a callous on my "pushing" finger), and i definitely split more stitches with them than with my Addi or Chiaogoo needles.

[@EweUniversity]

Hello, and thank you so much. As some others have reminded me in the comments here, Hiya Hiya does make regular (less sharp) tips, so I might have to try those in the 9" circulars. I forget that they have the blunter tips because I prefer the sharps in longer circular needles. XO

[@Rosa-mb5yp]

Please...please do a video on knitting socks on 9" circulars! I'm so happy to meet you. Thank you for sharing your storehouse of information. What a great instructor!

[@MissKittyLover]

I had never seen or heard of these little needles until your video. Obviously, I haven't gotten to the point of knitting socks yet. Sock knitting is a little intimidating to me because I think there is no way they will stay up like store-bought socks, so I just haven't tried them yet. But, if you were to make a video on knitting socks, I would watch for sure. Thanks for these videos. You are very thorough & informative & I appreciate it.

[@user-dp3iu3hz7u]

I learned socks a long time ago so I always feel more comfortable with double pointed needles. I learned to knit 60 years ago. I do really enjoy your videos!!

[@Susan-tx1tt]

I love the chia goo 9 inch needle. I love the fact that there are others using 9 inch needles to knit with!

[@lindac7146]

When I was searching for 9 inch needles, my local yarn store did not carry them, so I purchased them online. At the time, I only saw Hiya Hiya, and Chiagoo needles in that size, so I bought both. I love both sets of needles, but found I stabbed myself regularly using the Hiya Hiya needles. I'm so glad to know Chiagoo is your favorite 9 inch circular needle too. I love the smoothness of the join so much that I now look to Chiagoo as my first choice of circular needle in all sizes and lengths. I should have been smarter and bought interchangeable needles, and maybe I will at some point. I enjoyed this episode, as always.

[@Jacelyn5440]

I have never used tiny circular needles. BUT, I do have the Clover Takumi needle sets -- interchangeable, and straight, and I love the way they feel in my hand. Now, I am not a knitter -- just a knitter wanna be. One thing I really like about the Clover is that they help to hold the yarn it seems. And, for me that is huge. I have had trouble keeping the yarn where I want it in the past. I have struggled with trying to learn to knit for some years now. I know the stitches, and some of the other maneuvers, like M1, etc. But, I have yet to be able to put a pattern together. I have problems when I make a mistake -- I don't know how to take it out and get it all back on the needles. I think when I conquer that I will be able to knit. :) I have been a crocheter for many, many years.

[@teripersing]

For years I was a confirmed DPN lover, then I tried the Chiaogoo 9" circs. I'm definitely a fan of those now. I've experimented with some of the brands you reviewed today, with much the same opinion; Addi turbo and Clover Takumi needles are too blunt, Hiya-Hiya is too sharp, and Kollage is just awful with that catching join. I do switch to 24" circulars to work the short-row heel (leaving the resting stitches on the 9"), and would be interested to see your method of working your sock heel. Thanks for the review!

[@bettyfockler551]

Thanks for a very interesting review! I have used only 9” circs for many years. I knit Combination, some call “picking” with yarn in my right hand. My needles are Hiya Hiya sharps. I love them! I have 4 circs, 2 metal & 2 bamboo. Plus 6” Hiya Hiya stainless straights and 5” ChiaGoo bamboos. A couple sets of each, in 0s, 1s, 1.5 and 2s. My method is 2 at a time (cuff 1, cuff 2/ leg 1, leg 2 etc.) I cast onto my circ with a tiny straight and knit a few rows flat leaving sufficient tail to weave those rows closed later. I switch to the straights for heels and toes. I’ve used my circs in the past, but I’m more efficient using straights. My choice of stainless vs bamboo circs depends on the yarn I am using. I am curious to try the Easy Needles, but I’m afraid I won’t like the tips... we’ll see. I’ve tried Magic Loop and dislike all the dangling of needles and pushing and pulling. My gauge is most consistent on the 9” circs at 8 to 9 stitches, again depending on the yarn. I will be watching for your needle storage review - Heaven knows I need help! Thanks!

[@cbs70]

Thank you for your thorough research. I have just started using the Chiaogoo & decided to do a sock tube to truly get the practice. I am not a fast knitter, but have fallen in love (obsession) with sock knitting. For this reason, I have tried 4DPN, 5 DPN, & magic loop. 5 Dpns help my speed, but if I don't use another pair at the same time to knit the other sock, I will very likely get 2nd sock syndrome. To avoid that, I began using 2 @ a time magic loop. While it helps me complete a pair at a time, I find it slow & boring & fiddly (annoying). In the past 2 hrs I just managed to knit about 6" of one sock w the Chiaogoo 9" needle. I love it! I learned that putting almost no pressure on the needles or your fingers, makes it easier to use. Also, I place my left hand on the yarn & cable & use that to rest the (not fully gripping) pressure & help move the cloth to the tip. This allows me, a Continental knitter, to keep the sock rotating faster. I barely grip the right needle as I pick the stitches so they can keep moving & rotating (distributing down & to the left so I don't have to adjust sock , cable or needle.

[@robinmyers8939]

Hi Kristine. This is the first video of yours that I have seen. I watched because I love 9” circular needles. I like the chiagoo and hiyahiya the best. One thing you didn’t mention about your testing was how the number of stitches worked on the 10” needles. I use 64 stitches for my socks. The 10” needles are too long for the number of stitches. The stitches are stretched too far apart and are difficult to knit. The kollage needles fought me every step. They wanted to be straight not curved. My hands have never hurt while knitting but with the needles advertised to not hurt while using, my hands were tired and hurt. Thanks for an interesting video.

[@mom2prophets215]

Thanks Kristine for a brilliant episode. I knit in the English style (I’m a thrower), but also was so excited to jump on the 9inch circular train. I love my Chiao Goos, though I have one (of three sets) that has a bit of a rough join. I also have a set of Hiya Hiyas which are lighter, and bent at the join during my first use! I’m not a tight knitter, so I’m not sure what happened. I like to knit my socks a pair at a time, on separate needles and have never had trouble with heels or cuffs. I have also knit cuff down and toe up, and other than that darn toe, it seems to be as pleasurable either way.

[@maryalgar8779]

Yes, would love video on you sock making techniques.

[@cathynordahl9081]

Thank you for the review. What surprised me the most was how much more expensive the Knitters Pride needle was. I have an interchangeable set of theirs and i hate them. The cables have pulled out of the metal joining piece so many times. I've had to buy new cables over and over again. And the joins are so rough. I just got my first set of Hiyahiyas for Christmas and they're beautiful. Such a smooth join. But i may exchange them for ChiaoGoos. I've used them both as regular circulars not as interchangeables. As far as the tiny 9", I've only used the bamboo Clover. Not a fan. Difficult to maneuver. My hands started to hurt. I may try again with steel.

[@christineosterbuhr3264]

I would love for you to do a sock class. I have tried several times on DPNS but have had no luck.

[@robinrockwell2833]

I'm making fingerless gloves w/5 #4 dpn. Not loving it, so I have ordered a 9" circular Chiaogoo, after which I found your review. Whew, it looks like I bought the right thing for my project! Thanks for this review. It was very helpful, and I will check out your other 'shows'. You were very helpful. Thanks so much! Be aware, I will be looking for hints about jobless cast-ons on these mini circulars.

[@jansmith7177]

Thank you for such a thorough review!! I know it took you a long time to do this and the information was invaluable. I usually like doing socks 2 at a time, but also enjoy the ease of doing a single sock and have been using 9" clovers since that is the only one I've purchased. when I do 2 at a time, I do use ChiaoGoo 40" circulars and have been thinking about purchasing a 9", so now I have the confidence to make that purchase. One tip I have for others using 9" circulars is in casting on. I use a tubular cast on and cast the provisional stitches on a dpn with thicker yarn like dk or slightly heavier (I use dishcloth cotton yarn). Then I start using the 9" circular with the sock yarn, knitting off the dpn. The thickness of the provisional yarn helps the first few rows of the cuff extend easily around the 9" circular. I would love to see you do a tutorial on how you do your socks. I'm particularly interested in how you do the heel flap, turn and gusset. Thanks again - I love all your videos.

[@jofelker7656]

Great video. I enjoy & learn from your videos. Yes! I would like a video on knitting a sock on 9 in. needle. I am trying different needles for socks and prefer 9” but need some help with my technique. I store my straight needles in soft cases, a wooden box my husband made for me and a pitcher. I store my circulars in ziplock bags which I label. I put all the bags in a rectangular basket. My biggest frustration is trying to read the sizes on the circular needles, which is why I labeled the bags.

[@robinplatt]

Appreciated the review. I recently purchased kollage tiny needles. I struggle with holding and coordinating hands,yarn,needles to make the process smooth. Wish I had seen your review sooner.

[@sharongamble9854]

I so appreciate your teaching. You are easy to follow in a logical fashion. I have learned so much from your videos. Thank you. You gave good insight into comparing and contrasting the tiny needles. Thank you Kristine.

[@marjeanboyd3811]

Would love to see a video about the pros and cons of your favorite heel methods for socks.

[@francesshort5756]

I’ve been knitting for 40+ yrs. I just made my first pair of socks about a month ago. I was having trouble getting cast on with the dpns, so I used the Chaiogoo 9” circulars to cast on, then switched to dpns after about 6 rounds. I used the dpns for 1st sock, then made the 2nd sock using the 9” circulars. Gauge was about the same. I used 2 Dpns to make heel flap and the toe. I really like the 9” circulars!

[@MsLynneJ21]

You have no idea how happy I am each time I’m notified of another episode from you. You never fail to happily share your knowledge share with the rest of us. I have followed you for a long time and I just realized that I wasn’t following you on Instagram so I just now requested to do so.

[@jenniferannfox2316]

I like her videos too. She is interesting, on topic, straight to the point and no drama. Also she obviously does a tremendous research and time spent preparing her lessons for the video. I love the format.

[@Ansel_Here]

Kristine, after watching your tiny circular knitting needle review and comparison, I switched to the size 1 chiaoGoo needles which I was nervous about using since the size was different than the Addi easy knits and hiyahiya. Best Move ever. My arthritic hands were hurting so much with these two other needles but with the ChiaoGoo’s I am back to knitting the way I remember… fast and sweet. Gauge is perfect. Thank you. I wouldn’t have switched over if it hadn’t been for this review. I love the cord on the ChiaGoo needles

[@megrandmomjean5019]

This is an OUTSTANDING review. VERY helpful. Thank you, Dr. Kelly :)

[@kdwallroger]

I am a real fan of small circs. I have been making my socks on them for almost 2 years, close to 30 pairs. I do the Fish Lips Kiss heel on them as well. Recently, I made a pair of colourwork mittens with them as well I was struggling with ladders and was frustrated trying to manage all the needles, so I switched and finished the pair within a week. It does take a bit to get used to it, but once you are...you may never go back :)

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Kristy -- yes, I feel the same way. I started using the tiny circs because of the laddering with DPNs (no matter what technique I tried) and never looked back. :)

[@samanthanicholson9015]

So far the chiao goo worked out stitching was smooth steady, nice looking dpns are usually choppy looking stitches that wobble side to side, the chiao goo went back bcuz if price they were consistent but sometime in had cramps bcuz of arthritis, loved em I look forward to trying your other top two picks and teaching grandson and daughter in law to use the magic loop double needle for socks. Chiao goo so far was nice to knit but had a little bit harder time purling

[@foxmod1202]

Thank you for your fabulous review! It was filled with Very important information ! Please make a video of your way of knitting 🧦 socks because I need to learn to make them. No one knits in my family I’m alone on learnings. Thank you again your are pure Awesomeness! I have already purchased ChiaoGoo 9inches size 5 mm to make 18 doll hat and they are wonderful! because they are the red ChiaGoo and have a long tips.

[@bettygoldberg5353]

Thanks Kristine for this podcast. Yes, please show how you knit a sock on these tiny circular needles. Enjoy you podcasts a lot. I'm a fairly new subscriber, and love your approach.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Betty -- thanks for watching and for subscribing. I'm adding that tutorial to my list for a future video. XO

[@danielleboots7032]

I've only used the clover 9 inch. I am not a true sock knitter, but I made my granddaughter a pair of leg warmers with size 8's. I've purchased sizes 1",2",and 3" needles for future sock knitting. I used 3's and found my socks are sloppy. I need to find my exact formula. Many podcasters have their favorite needle size and number of stitches. Even though my socks were sloppy my cuff is a bit tight. Thanks for another great episode. Oh, by the way, your hats are very nice. The recipients will love them.

[@paulaestcourt9184]

Yes,yes,yes please do the video for the socks. I have been knitting for 60 years and I have never been able to knit socks I struggle.

[@CassieDA17]

I tried the clover 9" only because I could buy them at Joanns and really like using 9", but prefer metal. I've been trying to decide what metal 9" needles and was think Chiaogoo - you're video confirmed my decision!

[@bridge10dr]

Hi I really enjoy your podcasts. I am a fairly new knitter and believe it or not my first piece was a pair of socks. I watched a 7 part tutorial by Simply stiches. I think it has a heel flap and gusset but I'm not sure. I used 9 inch Chiagoo needles and loved them. This tutorial was made to show how to make socks with the circular needles. I made the whole sock with them I'm sure because I didn't have DPN's at the time. I am using DPN's for the center of a shawl right now and I am managing but find them to be fiddley. I think I will stick with the circulars for my socks. I have two so I did a cuff than the other and back and forth....both socks done at once. Thanks for all your great Information Kristine.

[@faithgreen4717]

definitely would love to see you do a sock video on 9” circular needles and toe up as well.

[@kathygoodman6159]

I'm one of those people who uses DPNs to cast on and do my heel. My cast on is messy when I use the 9 in circs, and I find the first row so much easier on DPNs. I'd love to see you do a video on how you do the whole sock on 9 in circs. I'm so glad that you did this review. I've only used the Chao Goo 9 in circs. I had heard that they were the longest needles. I do push with my finger, so I've cut my finger on sharper needles before. It took forever to heal because I couldn't stop knitting. I finally used my leather thimble on that finger so it could heal.

[@pattyspring4410]

Yes, I would like to see a video tutorial on how you do socks on the 9" circulars. Thank you.

[@Carola-By-The-Bay]

4/24 Thank you for this information! I’m a learning knitter and I’m determined to knit my first socks this year. I’ll order two sets of 9” circular needles and hope to find a “how to” video on KZbin. 🧶🌻😊

[@joannecoward3955]

I love the chiaogoo 9 inch and love them, but would be really interested to see how you do the heel flap and gusset on them. Thanks for a informative podcast Happy knitting

[@bridge10dr]

I have only made one pair but I think it was the heel you want. Try looking at a 7 part tutorial (3, 4, and 5 are the heel) by Simply stiches I made the whole sock on the 9 inch chiaogoo, and yes I love them also.

[@joannecoward3955]

Thanks Cindy I will check that out

[@courag1]

Cindy Mccourt I was at the point of doing the heel flap when I read this. Went straight over and watched the videos you referred to. I have picked up my stitches and am working on the rounds reducing the side gussets and the small circular needle is working great. My needle is composed this way with the ChiaoGoo Mini Twist Shorties: 2.75" tip for my right hand, 1.75" tip for my left hand and I am using the 6" cable. I am making a pair of socks for my husband, his ankles are thicker than mine. If it were a sock for me, I could use the 5" cable. So now it is busy work and I am home free. I cast on my 10.5" ChiaoGoo interchangeable even this time. But I'll either go to double points or Magic Loop on the toe. I am quite comfortable using this circular needle now. Yes, I can knit with the shorter needle in my right hand but for me, I find it more comfortable with the longer needle in my right hand. Thanks for all the reviews and help.

[@ladydlc550]

Simply in Stitches has two great tutorials for knitting cuff down socks using 9" circulars. Craft House Magic has tutorial for toe up socks. I learned how to knit socks with these tutorials. The 9" circulars are the best way to knit socks for me.

[@megcarr3126]

Hi Kristine, I haven't tried the 9 inch circs yet, I am worried that I won't be able to knit with them very well. I had a stroke ten years ago and still don't have full movement or feeling in my left hand. I am a new sock knitter, I only started last year, I do enjoy magic loop and find it much easier to manage than dpns. I found this video interesting, even if I don't plan on trying these anytime soon, it's still helpful to know. Thanks for all of your fantastic videos, they are infomative and interesting. 😀💖

[@TinNC]

Love all of your videos. As a newbie knitter your information fills a gap of knowledge--there are plenty of tutorials on how to do the knit stitch, purl, etc. but you have taught me about the big world of different yarns, different types and sizes of knitting needles etc. So many things that I did not know about or where to find the information. Thank you again for the videos and keep them coming!

[@suenicholls5446]

Thanks Kristine, great podcast as usual. I am a short circumference convert. But the needles I love are the hiya hiya steel tips. All the quality and smooth join but not such a sharp tip(plenty sharp enough for me though!).

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Susan -- yes, thank you for the reminder that Hiya Hiya makes a regular needle tip that is less sharp. I forget that, as I always use the sharps on longer circular needles. I think I might like the regular tips in 9" circulars, though.

[@debradavis9583]

I have used 8"/9" circular needles to knit all my socks since 2000. I use 8" Addi turbos, which are closer to 7 1/2" in length for toddler/children as socks, and for adult socks, I use KA 9" (closer to 10") bamboo circulars, with a swivel join. While the KA needles can be a little harder to find, I really love the swivel!

[@lydiadaugherty5171]

I found that after watching some videos regarding sock knitting socks, with different short needles you are all interesting. I see there;s even cabled crochet hooks! Wow, even a solid sock needle :D I rather have enough for two at a time, I think. Thanks for your lovely videos!!

[@leonawilliams8102]

Yes I’d love a video of you knitting socks and in addition I’d like to see a video of you knitting linen stitch continental.

[@CinSpain]

I agree 100% with your opinion on the circular needles, and thank you so much for adressing the big problem with reading the size of the needles. I find that SO annoying!

[@veniestagourdine3881]

Nice thorough review . Thank you for taking the time out to do the footwork.

[@carol-annmatthew5296]

Hi Kristine, a very good review. I'm a complete newbie in the art of sock knitting. I'm just a plain old knitter of all sorts and a little crocheting, but your thoroughness kept me watching to the end.

[@brendahemby3848]

Hi! I use the Chiaogoo 9" circulars for socks all the time. Most often I do an afterthought heel but I have done the heel flap and gusset method with no problems on them. Like you , the only thing I don't do is the toe. I have also done patterning and lace on them. When I cast on, I use one dpn in the same needle size and hold that in my right hand (I knit English style though I flick with my right hand) which makes the process faster for me. I love using 9" circulars for socks! Thank you for your reviews, I always enjoy them.

[@jacciwooten5745]

I love the Chiagoo 9" needles and I use them for socks.

[@ThePhantazmya]

Thanks for the review! I have the Clover Takumi ones and I like that they are bent but there just isn't enough needle for me to hold and my hands get cramped. I was hoping the Kollage ones would be better because of the longer tip length but I'm not willing to struggle with a rough join. I've been switching over to Chiaogoo interchangeables as my main needle set ever since your last review. I'm absolutely in love with them. Their mini red lace cord is almost too flexible but its great for 2 at a time magic loop which is my preferred sock knitting method.

[@KrishnaWashburn]

Great research, Dr. Kelly! I learned how to do Tunisian crochet today, so it's a great day for my fiber arts skill set.

[@janicethresher469]

New England central

[@janicethresher469]

Beverly

[@sharonrs2114]

Great segment on 9-inch circulars! You probably already know that you can get Hiya Hiya circulars that are not sharps. I do know what you mean about poking your fingers with them because they are the needles that I usually use. Yes, please show us how you knit socks with 9-inch circulars. I've used them for fingerless gloves but haven't attempted socks yet.

[@edjones8815]

Hi Dr. Kelly, Thank you for doing this review. I really wanted to like the small circular needles, but it was not so great. I am a tight continental knitter and typically do magic loop and get a 9 inch gage on US 2 needles ChiaoGoo needles. I generally need 72 stitches for a sock. I purchased and used a US 2 9 inch ChiaoGoo needle, and except for placing half of the stitches on a holder while I was working the heel flap and gusset exclusively knit a pair of socks. The whole time I had the feeling that I was fighting against the cable resistance to stay in a circle. It made my hands tired. I found purling unpleasant, and that is not normally the case for me. I was considering trying a different brand of 9 inch circular in the hope that the cable on the ChiaoGoo was my issue. Your review was very helpful. At least for now, I think I am going to continue as a happy magic looper.

[@EweUniversity]

Hello -- yes, I completely understand. I definitely know that the tiny circumference needles aren't for everyone. We all can use the methods that are most comfortable to each of us. That is the beauty of knitting. :)

[@judygrayson7896]

Yes sock tutorial !! Please

[@dogsinolga]

This was a great Classroom. I switched to Continental style in 2017... after 50 years of knitting! I also just got my first pair of 9" Hiya Hiya sharps and LOVE them. Yes, you do have to be careful with your finger! I might try the Addi easy knts after this review. It is so great that you tested so many needles. I also have a Chao Goo pair of 9" which I like but not as well. I love to knit but apparently, my real passion is dyeing yarn and roving. OH YES... and do mention if you ever talk about 9" circular again that it takes about 1/2 of a sock to get used to them. I almost gave up but I had heard there was a learning curve so stuck with it. Now, I am one of those 'switchers' from 9" to magic loop or dpns. But, I think it is because I am new to Continental style. Thank You!

[@tracyhiattgrice5565]

And you included a spreadsheet just as I was wishing for one. Awesome! Thanks very much. I've never tried these tiny needles, but I'm going to give them a shot, starting with the ChiaoGoos. I use DPNs mostly for socks, sometimes two circulars. I do not care for magic loop at all. I'd like to hear more about the knitting class you teach (or taught) at your university. Thanks again for all your work!

[@nainaayya2806]

Thank you for not teaching us knitting - plenty of tutorials online. Your forte is sifting through information about knitting topics and testing and comparing - no one does this! It’s been helpful and I’ve purchased several of your reccommended books, needles, and accessories.

[@belbubs]

Yes! Everything you said..... yes! I love 9" circs! I would absolutely love for you to show us your knitting techniques for socks! Yay! Can't wait!

[@kehardy1986]

This was great and soooo in depth. I personally learned to make socks on 9" chiao goo and I have never looked back. That brand is my favorite in all lengths. The join and cable are awesome plus I love red! I'm currently even using them to make mittens! I hope to get the interchangeable set soon in shorties. Thanks again for this wonderful info.

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Kimberly -- that's awesome. I'm going to do a review of the tiny interchangeables soon. 💙

[@kehardy1986]

Kristine Kelly 🤩🤩🤗🤗

[@MaeInBelgium]

Thank you for this video. I am new to 9" circulars, and I am trying the Kollage Square with a firm cable. These needs do swivel at the join, which I really like, because it lets me hold the needles a bit differently in each hand and makes it easier for me to alternate holding the yarn in my left or right hand. Also, I think the join is really smooth on these, so it seems they have improved over the last few years. I don't know if I like them yet. I will give them two pairs of socks before I really decide. But if I don't love them, I will give the Chiaogoos a try. Thanks again!

[@vickysimons5477]

I'm new to sock knitting, so any tutorial you do will be greatly appreciated.

[@susannawarner6817]

Yes, a video on how you knit the cuff, heel and toe also.

[@kitsala1]

9" are my favorites for socks, learned my first pair on them. My go to are chaigoo&hiya hyia. Have them in all size 9" & your right the entire sock can be made on 9". I usually use 1.5" for my socks after learning on 2&3 US. Love these, thank you for this episode. Also I store them in the sleeve they came in, I know right where they are. Thanks again.

[@knitsinpurple2005]

I knit a lot of socks and always use 9inch ChiaoGoo needles. I love them. I use them for the entire sock.

[@loving110995]

I have chiaogoo set of interchangeable needles so I decided to buy their 9" needle as well. Going to test it out on some preemie hats before buying one to make socks with.

[@1lourson]

yes please a easy sock tutorial on shorties would be great

[@pattymiller6696]

Very good episode...I’ve tried one of the 9” circulars and found my hands got tired or cramped up...maybe, I just needed to keep working with them to get used to it. I usually use dpn’s...I guess I’m comfortable with them...and my knitting is tighter too. You are so good about giving us so much information...thank you!

[@knitty781]

Wow! This video was recommended in the Crazy Sock Lady Summer Sock Camp feed. It is an amazingly detailed review. Thanks for all the information.

[@susancwright5250]

I use 9" circs exclusively at this point because of hand grip/strength issues that make other needles difficult to manage. I have tried all the brands you reviewed except Knitters Pride. While I agree with your assessment, my particular mobility challenges have led me to the Takumi Clover needles for my sock knitting needs. I find the slight bend to be an enormous aid in holding onto the needle; the blunt tip does not create a permanent wound in my right index finger and the wood provides enough friction so stitches do not unintentionally slide off. I prefer knitting both socks concurrently and also like to have 6-10 sock projects ongoing at any given time; the reasonable cost of the Clover 9" circs makes this possible. I would love a demonstration of the heel turn & flap with the short needles ( because I am too lazy to figure it out).Many years of using dpn's, fumbling with 2 circular needles and what seems like hours wasted pulling through that magic(?) loop led me to the 9" circular needles. Like everything in knitting there is no right or wrong/good or bad so long as a cohesive fabric is produced and the knitter enjoys the time spent. The value of a finished object is subjective and socks are meant to warm feet, not be judged by the foot patrol.In the mid 1960s when I started knitting socks there were mostly metal dpn's - then came plastic. I liked plastic very much except they were easily broken.Regarding the wood needles, occasionally one will feel slightly rough so I use the smoother side of an emery board to even out the surface; this slight sanding works wonders - likewise with a join that has a small snag. I have also reshaped the point on many a tip of a bamboo needle if it didn't quite suit my taste (particularly larger size needles that tend to be blunt).Finally, it would be helpful if there was a date on your podcasts. In reviewing past episodes knowing a relative time frame would be very useful. Thanks so much. Susan Wright. aka cattylonglegs

[@Leslybunting]

What a fantastic review. Thanks for taking the time to knit all the swatches for this video. I learned so much about the different choices for circular knitting and needle choices.

[@shllybkwrm]

I love using short needles for socks, they go so much faster! I use the two-circular method for the toe, with two 9" needles or sometimes one 11". Sometimes I do the heel on the second circ, but I totally agree it's not necessary.

[@ladyintn48]

I'm not sure how I found your channel, but I am so glad that I did. I have only been knitting for about 3 years now and the reason I started knitting was to knit socks. Well that didn't happen as they were way too hard for a beginner. However, I have watched many videos now and have made several pairs, quite a few shawls, several blankets and now working on my first afghan. I have never made socks with DPN's...just magic loop but just got my first 9" tiny needles this week Chiaogoo, I might add, and would love to see how you make your socks. I am so wanting to figure out the perfect way to make a pair and then be able to just knit them and have a drawer full. HA! Again love your videos, have gone back and watched all the old ones and look forward to the new ones. Thanks for all the help you give us.

[@EweUniversity]

Hello, and thank you so much. I love hearing about your knitting adventures. Best wishes in your experimenting with the 9" ChiaoGoos. :)

[@juliehertel21]

I bought the Chaigoo 9" circulars in all the sizes from 0 to 4. I have tried the 9" twice, but switched back to dpn's due to hand cramps, pain, and numbness. I would love a tutorial on sock knitting with them - clearly I am just holding them improperly but I haven't been able to figure out what I am doing wrong. I don't have numbness or pain with any of my other knitting. I will say, however, that I loved the stitch quality I got with the *Chaigoo 9". I Also did get 1 of the Hiyahiya 9", but they are really sharp! In the meantime, I really like my KnitPicks birch dpns for socks. Lovenyour videos.

[@debraraymer3386]

Well, I have a sweater with a half of a sleeve left, another top with the back have Well, I have a sweater with only a half of a sleeve left, another top with the back half done, so of course I need to knit some fingerless gloves. I needed size 2 and 3 dpns, so I picked up my tiny circulars. I did a long tail cast on, which wasn't very difficult. I then started knitting. The first row, I thought maybe I made a mistake, but by the second row I was holding them comfortably, and knitting away. Since these are fingerless, I should be able to do the whole fingerless mitt, except for the thumb, which I have some short dpns that will work fine. Great find-thanks Kristine

[@EweUniversity]

Hi Debra -- great to hear this! Thank you for taking the time to comment. :)

[@Skywalker67897]

Hi Dr. Kelly! Loved your video about these teeny circular needles! I absolutely adore them. I fell in love with these needles when the bug bit me and knitting socks became my new hobby! At first I thought my big paws would be a hinderance to handling them but after getting my chiao goo's, it was just a matter of getting used to them. I don't like using dps's. No mater how I try, I can't get the hang of using them. The only time I use dpns is when it's time to close the toe doing the Kitchener stitch. I also have a pair of hiya hiya' s and love them too! You're right about poking a hole in your finger moving stitches off your needles. My right pointer finger has a small circular callus on it. I call it my battle scar. Lol. Thanks again for another great video! Can't wait for the next one.

[@ThePurpleBookshelf]

I love knitting socks on tiny needles. I use 2.5 mm for socks, which makes the Addi size 1 perfect for me. I have to remember to buy US 1.5 in other brands. I prefer the 8” length over the 9” length as it seems to make my stitches flow smoother. I always do the cast on and heel flap on the 8” needle. My order of preference: 1) Addi turbo 2) hiya hiya (regular tip) 3) hiya hiya sharp 4) ChiaoGoo

[@aquilladahun-aleftyknitter]

Yes, I would love a video of how you do your sock heels. I love my 9 inch circulars and usually just do a cut in afterthought heel. I think its odd that people do not think they can cast on or do ribbing with them.

[@agnesduarte84]

Firstly, thank you for a most informative podcast. I have learned quite a bit from this and previous episodes. I would appreciate a video using the 9 inch circulars for knitting the gusset and turning the heel.