Circular knitting needles are made up of two needle points, joined by a flexible cable. You can knit back and forth on them, just like straight needles, if you want to. The benefit is that you can make a much larger project on circular needles, because the cables joining them come in wide variety of lengths. So, if you’re knitting a big project like an afghan or blanket, circular needles are your best choice.

You can also use short circular needles to make projects in the round, without the hassle of using double pointed needles. If you’re knitting a hat, or even some sock patterns, you simply cast on your stitches, and join them in the round, knitting continuously instead of back and forth. Many people find using circular needles is much easier than using a set of double pointed needles.

To join your stitches in the round, cast on your required amount of stitches. When you reach the right number, bring the other end of the needle around (where you started casting on), and knit (or purl, according to your pattern), into that first cast on stitch, joining your work in a circle. To make sure your stitch is tight and doesn’t leave a gap where you join, pick up the tail from your first cast on, and hold it together with your strand of working yarn. Knit the first two or three stitches with this double strand to keep the work tight without leaving a hole. Then drop the tail end and continue knitting as usual with your working strand of yarn.

To choose the right circular needles, look for needles that are smooth and secure in the base that attaches them to the cable. Needles with gaps or roughness will catch on your yarn and snag it when you’re trying to knit. Look for smooth flexible cables that join your needles without gaps or roughness, too. Many cables are made out of stiff plastic that kinks and does not straighten out, and this can lead to a hassle when you’re knitting. Look for pliable plastic that doesn’t hold a kink for the best results.

Circular knitting needles come in a wide variety of sizes and types. You can find them in wood, bamboo, metal, and plastic. It depends on your personal preference which one is right for you, so try several styles before you decide on the right circular knitting needles for you.

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Holding knitting needles is perhaps an art form in and of itself. As a knitter, remind yourself constantly to relax. No need to tense you shoulders or over-do it. Stretch out your arms and fingers, and allow every muscle to do its job. Holding one needle in each hand, position your hands about half-way up the needle for a convenient balance and stability. Begin slowly and steadily, relaxing your hold to allow for even, neat, and probably-made stitches.

If you are beginning with casting on stitches, you will only need to hold one needle. This is a slightly awkward maneuver, but is often made easier by resting the back end of the needle against your side. This helps stabilize the needle while starting the project. Allow the needle to flow in and out of the yarn smoothly, and don’t make things too taught or controlled.

When you begin stitching each row, it is typical to hold the needle with each pointer finger straightened to gain a relaxed grasp. While the rest of the hand is curled around the needle, the pointer finger is straightened and firmly but easily resting against the top of the needle. With this position maintained, your pointer finger will remain continually poised and ready to thread the yarn around the needle to make the stitch or help slip off stitches as you work through them.

Allow a gentle ease with which you will hold the needles, and be careful to maintain each stitch. Don’t let your grasp push the stitches to far up the needles to the point they slip off. Again, hold the needles with relaxed muscles as you direct them through each stitch.

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