NEEDLE TYPES
STRAIGHT NEEDLES ... are used when working back and forth in rows. They come in lengths of 10, 12, and 14 inches and sizes O-1-2-3, etc. The larger the number, the thicker the needle.
DOUBLE POINTED NEEDLES ... come in sets of 4 or 5. They are used for socks, mittens and any articles made in rounds.
CIRCULAR NEEDLES ... are used in making skirts, or parts of garments when a seam is not desired; also in completing a large doily or a round tablecloth.
Directions give the size and type needle required and it is not advisable to change the size unless it is necessary in order to obtain the correct gauge.
CABLE NEEDLES ... are short with a bend in the center to hold sts from slipping off. They are available in thin or thick size for the different yarns. A short double pointed needle may also be used. It is a good idea after placing sts on the straight needle to be used for cable to stick needle into garment slightly, this will prevent sts from slipping off needle.
STITCH HOLDERS ... are used to hold sts to be used later. Example: sts at back of neck or when all sts are cast on and worked to armholes, then divided for front and back. The stitch holders can be purchased or a safety pin or length of yarn may be used.
STITCH COUNTERS ... usually placed on knitting needles. They have a dial and after working a row, turn the dial to the next number.
BOBBINS ... usually made of plastic to hold small amounts of yarn for use in making argyle socks or the Fair Isle, Scandinavian or Ski patterns.
GAUGE ... The stitch gauge which appears at the beginning of all instructions is most important to the size and fit of your garment. Before starting, make a sample swatch of the pattern stitch with the needles and yarn specified. If you have MORE sts than gauge use LARGER needles. If you have LESS sts than gauge use SMALLER needles. Check your gauge as you progress to assure a perfectly sized garment, Ill. No. 1.
