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Essential Knitting Notions: The Tools Every Knitter Should Know
Notions, Notions and more Notions!
As any experienced knitter will tell you, while yarn and needles are the stars of the show, it's the supporting cast of knitting notions that can make or break your crafting experience. These small tools might seem insignificant, but they're instrumental in creating beautiful, professional-looking pieces. Let's explore the world of knitting notions and discover why each one deserves a place in your craft bag.
Today we've put together a fun list of all our faves and it's time to dive in and take a peek!
-Stitch Markers: The Tiny Trail Blazers
Perhaps the most frequently used notion, stitch markers are like little signposts in your knitting. These small rings or clips help you track pattern repeats, mark increases or decreases, and remember where you are in complex patterns. While you can find them in various materials from plastic to precious metals, what matters most is that they're smooth enough not to snag your yarn.
This is also a fun area to add some personality to your knitting supplies as you can get basic stitch markers all the way to fun designs like animals, food and other cute things!
We love the tried and true ring markers from CocoKnits - CocoKnits Colorful Ring Stitch Markers
And if you want something a little more different and fun we love these as they come in so many fun designs- Firefly Notes | Stitch Markers
-Tapestry Needles: The Final Touch
Also known as darning needles, these large, blunt needles with wide eyes are essential for weaving in ends and seaming pieces together. Steel needles are most durable, but plastic ones work well for delicate yarns. The best ones have a slight bend at the tip, making it easier to follow the path of your stitches when seaming.
We love these tapestry needles, they are both affordable and have the bend in them making it easier to weave in those ends! - Clover Jumbo Bent Tip Tapestry Needles
-Cable Needles: The Pattern Makers
For knitters venturing into the world of cables, these short, often double-pointed needles are indispensable. While some experienced knitters can cable without them, these tools make the process much more manageable and help maintain even tension in your cable stitches. They come in various shapes - straight, hooked, or U-shaped - and choosing one is often a matter of personal preference.
Here is a pack we think is fun with alternating sizes and 3 pretty colors- HiyaHiya Cable Needles
- Row Counters: The Memory Keepers
Whether it's a simple mechanical counter that slides onto your needle or a digital one around your neck, row counters help you track your progress. They're particularly valuable when working on patterns with long repeat sequences or when you need to match pieces exactly, like sleeves on a sweater.
This is a great one that fits on your finger- Susan Bates Digital Row Counter
Although a little more on the spendy side, This Ring from Knitters Pride is beautiful and useful- Rainbow Row Counter Ring
- Measuring Tools: The Precision Partners
A good tape measure is crucial for achieving proper fit, while a ruler can help you check your gauge. Some knitters also swear by gauge rulers with cut-outs for measuring stitch and row counts. Unlike that measuring tape from your sewing kit, a knitting tape measure should be flexible but not stretchy, to ensure accurate measurements.
We just absolutely adore these cute little snail tape measures! they are so cute and had to add them to the list- Assorted Snail Tape Measure
And if you'd like something a little smaller and modern looking we have these- ChiaoGoo 60" Measuring Tape
- Scissors: The Clean Cut
While any scissors will do in a pinch, having dedicated yarn scissors makes a difference. Look for sharp, precise blades that can make clean cuts without fraying your yarn. Many knitters prefer small scissors that can be safely carried in a project bag.
These Scissors come in all different colors and patterns- Nirvana Scissors
- Stitch Holders: The Patient Waiters
When a pattern calls for setting aside stitches (like for a sleeve or neckline), stitch holders keep your live stitches secure until you're ready to work them again. They come in various sizes and styles, from simple safety-pin types to elegant curved holders that look like giant bobby pins.
We recommend using these basic metal holders, they work great! - Knitter's Pride Aluminum Stitch Holders
- Project Bags: The Organizers
While not technically a notion, a good project bag keeps your work-in-progress clean and your tools organized. The best ones have separate compartments for notions and reinforced areas to prevent needles from poking through. There are so many you can choose from pretty colors, fun patterns. This is a fun one!
One of my personal favorites is this tote with snaps. It also has an added little bag and a separate pocket for your scissors! - Paradise Fibers Snap Tote Set
Like any tools, knitting notions need proper care. Keep them clean and dry, and store them where they won't get tangled or damaged. A notion bag or small container can help keep everything organized and easily accessible.
Remember, while it's tempting to buy every gadget available, start with the basics and add tools as your needs grow. The best notions are the ones that make your knitting more enjoyable and efficient, helping you create beautiful pieces with less frustration and more pleasure.
