One of my best and newest tools I have are the foot inserts that came with my Adidas trainers I bought earlier this year! They are made of moulded stiff cardboard, has an instep and heel. I've marked the exact spot on them where I need to start knitting my toe - I just slip the sock on the foot insert to see how close to my mark is and so far it's worked! I think it's magical! 🤣🤣🤣
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
That's a great idea! I love repurposing like that.
@FallacyBites
10 ай бұрын
That's brilliant! I'm always good with making socks for me and people with similar feet, but way bigger feet? I'm doomed. I will keep my eye out
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
That's a GREAT idea! TY for mentioning it! I just never thought about it, and the little cardboard cut out I've been using (per Fish Lips Recipe) is about to wear out! I think I have some of these, so it's perfect timing too! TY.
@dorothyrainey1141
11 ай бұрын
I think having a crochet hook handy is key. They really come in handy when you drop a stitch or need to fix something.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
Yes! Love my little crochet hooks for fixing things!
@Tomi-j4s
10 ай бұрын
My sister-in-law gave me a tiny latch hook for picking up stitches and seaming. She says you can get them in knitting machine supplies. They work even better than plain hooks.
@sarah_yo
10 ай бұрын
agree! a crochet hook works just as good as those "special" tools that are being sold for dropped stitches
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
I really love my HandiTool, and now have one per project bag! They're inexpensive ($3-4.00 USD) so handy, as you've got the hook on one end, comes in various sizes down to a 2mm, and a straight needle on other so it can be used to temp hold stitches, cable needle, etc. I just love them as they fit anywhere, are only 3.5-4", and work great! Before I found this, I used a regular crochet hook, and it does work fine, too. This just fits better into my notions bag and size is perfect.
@transarchivist
10 ай бұрын
Row counters are literally the most useful tool!
@loridesrosiers
11 ай бұрын
I didn't like cable needles until I picked up a spiral cable needle, it was a game changer for me and that year I did a TON of cable projects just because I loved using it so much. This year I picked up a few more so I can have one in every bag and have spares.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
Haven't heard of a spiral cable needle - I'll have to check that out!
@bethbaker9492
11 ай бұрын
Agree! I love my spiral cable needles. All the others were constantly in my way.
@ShintogaDeathAngel
10 ай бұрын
@@bethbaker9492 not heard of spiral cable needles, but the worst I used was one of those rainbow painted wooden ones that had notches in the middle. I know the idea was to hold the stitches but it felt horrible trying to remove them.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
I just got a spiral one myself. Haven't had a chance to use it yet, but I can't wait! I'm so excited to hear that others really like them.
@debbie.mckenzie
4 ай бұрын
I'm watching this one in May 2024, and it's right up my alley. I keep a big wide broccoli rubber band in my knitting stuff. I poke my needle tips right through it for stitch stoppers. It's also great for twisting my interchangeable needle tips onto the cord.
@NerdyKnitting
4 ай бұрын
Great idea!
@janievalgunn
11 ай бұрын
I cannot live without a row counter but I use a row counting app on my smart watch so it’s always convenient for me to use and never worry of losing it. Lobster claw stitch markers are amazing for crochet ~ I cannot stand using them for knitting 😂
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
I hadn't thought about using the lobster claw markers for crochet instead - I'll have to give that a try!
@jenlim101
10 ай бұрын
I don’t like split ring markers but I recently found a use for them. They are good to catch the dropped stitch, just hooked through the stitch and several rows above. Turn it until the pointy end is facing downward so it doesn’t drop off. Split ring marker is good as a hook to hold the bulb ring markers or other stitch markers. A quick way to making a lifeline is to thread the dental floss through the tiny hole at base of your interchangeable needles and secure it with a small knot. Knit as usual and you will be threading the floss through your knitting.
@oldthunder150
10 ай бұрын
I have this yarn bowl. It Was a gift from my taughter. I use it for filet crochet yarn espacially when I take it outdoor. So it is protected from dirt.
@jsprat96
11 ай бұрын
I love the color work ring. I tried doing the Seaglass tee as a first time colorwork without one until about halfway through. It was a slog-until I got that ring. I knit continental and can’t figure out how to use both hands, so this is what works for me.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
I've just bought one, but haven't had a chance to use it yet. I'm glad to hear you like it. On Social Media, I've seen a lot of people really DO like them! So thought I'd try it too.
@sharontabor7718
10 ай бұрын
I love my row counters. I attached it to an orphaned dangle earring and it goes between the 1st and 2nd stitch which means I have to touch it and turn it. And I love my cable needles. Dpns slide out. In a pinch I will use an oversized safety pin.
@thinwaifer
11 ай бұрын
I don't use stitch holders, I just use extra interchangeable cords. I also don't like the dangly charm stitch markers. I use circular interchangeable needles almost exclusively at this point so when (not if!) I drop a needle, it can only go so far. I gave up on needle stoppers and just shove my project back off the needles onto the cord. I don't like the split rings as they tend to work their way loose and fall off the project. I don't usually use the little metal light bulbs because they're small and I overlook them. When a friend started knitting earlier this year, I took the opportunity to pass on a lot of my straight needles, as well as a lot of notions that just weren't working for me. More recently, I was knitting on a trip with friends and one of them had never used stitch markers before. I believe I converted her from using scraps of yarn to mark her repeats!
@robyn-r3g
11 ай бұрын
I grabbed a gourd bowl off the shelf and used it to keep my wool dry whilst I knitted outside on a wet lawn. It worked really well. I like my wool to sit at my feet, so a bag gets wet. Very enjoyable video, thanks. 👍 🦘🦘🦘🦘🦘
@lorrainekrahn4498
11 ай бұрын
Mikey, you are so patient and extremely nice to explain all this in a calm manner. My first thought was “ oh, P.O.!!” But in retrospect, wow, I had no idea exactly how much time and effort it took for a new Free pattern to be made available to us, your devoted followers.❤
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
Facts!
@patricewassmann212
10 ай бұрын
The stitch marker with the lobster claw clasp is actually a progress keeper. Not meant to go on your needle! It hooks into your knitted fabric to keep track of how much progress you make each time you work on something,
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
And it pulls my stitches until they stretch out! So, I don't use the lobster claws on my knitted fabric.
@anthonyweber1759
10 ай бұрын
I have a makeshift yarn bowl, which is a cauldron shaped halloween candy bowl with a binder clip clipped to the side with the handles up to thread the yarn through.
@kathyffarney-keck8593
11 ай бұрын
Now we need vlog on notions you use❤
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
Next month, I think!
@aknitlife
11 ай бұрын
I love plastic needle stoppers with cute designs or plain ball shape. They really keep the stitches together. They can be a bit pricey. I’m lucky I won a giveaway and also a dyer gave it as a thank you for patronizing.
@sarah_yo
10 ай бұрын
I agree with the circular needles instead of straight needles comment so so much! When I started knitting I got some very slippery straight metal needles. They worked okay-ish for my first project (a headband). my 2nd project was a scarf, which I worked flat on a circular needle -- omg the difference! it was so much easier! I also work all of my socks on those mini circular needles, since I can't figure out how to work with 5 needles. but I have to add that I knit the tip of my socks with 3 straight needles tho, which is always my least fav part about knitting a sock.
@northernbunny9894
11 ай бұрын
I love crafting of any kind... but when I saw your title, I had to smile. Everything you talk about makes so much sense. I thought it was just me, or I wasn't using those notions right. now know I am not crazy for like those stitch counter among some other items that you mentioned.
@TxVoodoo_
11 ай бұрын
I use my yarn bowl for the project I keep on my desk in my office - it keeps the yarn from getting nasty. The row counter I use is the one on my phone - it does stitches as well, and is customizable for repeat patterns. I use stitch markers like CRAZY. I have several kinds, but I make them myself, so not a big issue of cost. I don't mind the dangling. I can't keep numbers in my head - I have dyscalculia. I use stitch holders, too! For thumbs on mitts, which I make a lot. I don't cable much, but when I do, I use a cable needle. Especially since arthritis kicked in. My fingers end up losing grip if I'm holding the stitches. One thing I did was buy a big bag of notions at an estate sale. ALLLLL the things for about $5 total. So now I can use what I want. Thank you for talking about barber cords - I'd never heard of them! I found a spool of a neon colored one on amazon for $9. That seems right up my alley. I tried the colorwork ring and NOPE. lol. I looked like an uncoordinated spider with yarn everywhere. You just popped up in my recommends, and I've subbed now. Thank you!
@seester123
11 ай бұрын
Thank you for the shout out 🥰. This was a really cool video and it was interesting to see some of the ways other knitters have improvised different notions!
@agnescleary2312
10 ай бұрын
For needle stoppers I find wine bottle corks work best. So, naturally you've got to open a bottle whenever you start a new project!😃
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
Never thought about these - but in trying to find stoppers for size 0-2, it's hard. So I am now trying out those little foam circles that stick on the end of needles. The other stoppers with the 2 holes that close around needles - I just never seem to have the right size! Either way too small for Size 5-7 or too large for size 1! Maybe that's a "me" problem! LOL.
@Sincyn241
10 ай бұрын
I made an abacus style row counter from small and large natural stone beads I picked up at the craft store. I threaded them from both sides with waxed dental floss. It has 9 smaller stones on one end (for the 1s), then a looped knot with a locking stitch marker to attach it to my project or bag, and then 20 larger stones on the other end for the 10s. With the natural stones, there is quite a lot of color variation, so I also noted the 5 and 10 marks with a specific shade or pattern that stands out and makes it easier for me to track with a quick glance. But I have ADHD, and not a great memory, so I use the one every 10 rows marker too, to double-check. I really do like sliding the natural stones, and the dental floss is proving remarkably hardy for this project, it’s just so satisfying to move the little beads along. I’ve also purposely attached it to the inside of the top of my project bag and letting it get jostled around to see if the beads stay in place, and it hasn’t lost its count yet!
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
Nice idea!
@shesaknitter
10 ай бұрын
I use a type of row counter that locks, so accidently advancing the count does not happen. I also have always used stitch markers, and I have a cable need that I love. It is a very particular type and I've used it off and on since 1972. I've been a knitter since 1959. I definitely use stitch markers if I have a pattern with lots of changes across the rows. It is much easier for me to move the markers over than to have to remember or having to count over and over or having to take a pen or pencil to write things down. I've used one of those cardboard tubes for holding socks and dpns for years. Mine don't look any the worse for wear, they are pretty sturdy, but I've started using flexitips instead of dpns when I need to do circular knitting. Much better and I don't have to shift a few stitches onto the next needle over at the beginning of a new needle to avoid that channel that can appear, showing where the stitches are divided on the needles, as can happen with dpns. But that's only for the small circumference items. For anything a bit larger, I just use circulars. I too like interchangeables and although I have square interchangeable tips of wood and metal, plus a Lykke driftwood set. However, last year for my birthday present (to me!) I bought a Cypra interchangeable set. I love the copper and almost always use that set unless a yarn is too slippery in which case I'll use the driftwood tips. I prefer the shorter ("special") 3.5" tips. I do have a lot of fixed circular needles, almost all accumulated before the really nice interchangeables were made. I remember when there were only the Boye and Denise sets, which were pretty awful, IMHO. I am usually reading while I knit, and unless I'm doing something really complicated (or lace!) I can knit without looking at what I'm knitting. So having to look and count, not to to mention count and write something down would mean that I wouldn't be able to read as easily while I'm knitting. That would put a real drag on the knitting. Thanks for the video! Very interesting.
@missingaria2503
9 ай бұрын
I've been casually knitting off and on since I was.... I guess 10 or so? My grandma taught me on straight needles and I remember she only ever had like half a dozen or so straight needles she used since she also mostly knit casually. When I started buying my own needles Clover had only recently come to local craft stores with their bamboo needles but (as a teen with limited funds) I just kept buying the metal ones even though I was never really a fan. Once I finally invested in a nice pair of bamboo needles I LOVED them, but the thrifty side of me lamented the possibility of needing to buy more. The cost to return ratio for a casual knitter like me was one of the biggest factors that turned me off of knitting for a few years. Especially since I'd reached a skill level where I was really sick of making scarf after scarf, but found it hard to do anything of a slightly higher skill level without making the switch to paying for single size circulars in addition to my straight needles. I didn't even know that interchangeable needle sets existed until this latest wave of knitting fans cropped up and saw so many knitting Ytbers using them. Now I have a beautiful LYKKE color set that my gf got me as a gift and I LOVE it. If I'd known, I'd never ever have wasted so much on straight needles and my knitting world could have opened up so much sooner. Even better, I don't have to exchange or buy new needles if I find the gauge I thought I needed isn't giving me the look I want. Absolutely could go on for hours and hours about how much more I love knitting with these.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
Welcome to the Knitting Today side! Glad you like your new needles. I love mine (ChiaGoo & Addi's both! LOL.) Having the cords makes all the difference in knitting! And they're so useful for trying on, holding stiches, etc. Just screw on the stopper, and you're ready to change/store/try on! Makes good financial sense instead of buying a million and one gadgets! Glad you're liking the Lykke's - they are lovely needles. I looked at those once, but really prefer fast quick SS needles. But they were lovely!
@saraw8503
10 ай бұрын
I bought a set of colored metal needle keepers. Love them.
@GATeacherfriend
11 ай бұрын
I use rubber bands as needle keepers or on the ends of DPNs to prevent stitches from falling off. I bought the silicone tubing for beading for holding stitches. It's plentiful! It is dicey about falling off needle tips when you're loading stitches, but if holds the stitches so you can try things on or use needles elsewhere.
@ramonademmon5951
11 ай бұрын
I have a beautiful wooden yarn box, not a bowl. It is great. I can use it even if I am using 2 colours as it has a lid. It can even store my smaller project when I am not knitting. It keeps my cats from destroying my project. I love it. I don't use my stitch counter for knitting, but it is great to count my laps when I swim!
@shereenabusaeedi3754
11 ай бұрын
I also use my stitch counter to count swimming laps! It's perfect for that! :)
@saraw8503
10 ай бұрын
I have a clear acrylic tool that magnifies and has inch increments on one side and half inch on other side. I love it. It really helps identify stitches for gauge swatching.
@hollywiancek5301
10 ай бұрын
When I started knitting, I was given my grandmother's straight needles. I decided to use my commute time to knit. There were many passengers sitting next to me on the South Shore Line dodging those needles! I learned quickly about circular needles and my grandmothers needles now sit in a vase.
@BrookieWookieBee
11 ай бұрын
I use wine corks to cover my needle points. For the DPN, I keep them in the bag they came in. Sure it's got tape in it but it's worked for years.
@hilarycohen1470
10 ай бұрын
I like using the plastic bobbins to hold a few yards of sock yarn to accompany sock gifts so the recipient has matching yarn for repairs.
@NerdyKnitting
10 ай бұрын
That's a great idea!
@jenniemoore2114
10 ай бұрын
I found these little silicone tube point covers a month ago and they work great. They're about 2 inches long and ver flexible. They sure don't fall off and, in fact, I have to give a good tug to remove them!
@NerdyKnitting
10 ай бұрын
Those sound like a great tool - thanks for mentioning them!
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
I just looked these up! I had no idea they existed. TY for the valid suggestion!
@dragonkat1868
10 ай бұрын
Just watched this video, I'm a new knitter, have made a few hats and a pair of socks (flat) made a lot of mistakes and not sure how to fix them. I can pick up a slipped stitch though. I'm more of a crocheter but trying to learn how to knit. I've just started my first shawl, so far so good. I just subscribed.
@NerdyKnitting
10 ай бұрын
Welcome! I'm glad you found the channel.
@suzipam1234
10 ай бұрын
I use my knitting bowl all the time. I carry my knitting with me and the bowl placed everywhere always keeps my wool clean and neat. I crochet all the time and knitting counters and stitch holders are very useful. Also for aran knitting they are useful.
@medeamaterial
11 ай бұрын
I really liked my Norwegian ring for two dolor knitting. I bought and used it for a double knit scarf in lace weight, it saved my sanity.
@kindlequeen8593
10 ай бұрын
Some things I’ve personally never used/tried to use and found an alternative: those stitch/row counters that go on the needle. Hate those, they break over time and take up a lot of space. Instead I use the Clover clicking counter. Put it on a piece if cotton yarn and wear it around my neck. My straight needles. I got the Chiaogoo interchangeable set of needles and have never gone back. I have so many sets of straight needles I never use, mostly because I’m hyper-mobile and the weight of the straight needles and the project moving from left to right and back is a lot of strain. Also, for the “barber cord”, I’ve found similar products at Joann’s at $3 for 18 meters.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
I hang mine off a string right at Stitch #1. I can't pass it without changing, and it's not in the way nor does it stretch out my stitch. Kinda goofy - but it works! Love my ChiaGoo's also! I use those cables rather than Barber Cords! After all - it's why they made the Stoppers!
@Snaphappy26
10 ай бұрын
I am an English knitter and love my straight needles, long enough to tuck under my arm. I struggled with circulars but have got used to them with practise. They are still not my go to… I have tried dpns but struggle to not get a mark between the needles. As for cable needles I have a pack of straight metal ones that I have had for decades… I love them. They can slip a bit but I sometimes stick the end into my knitting(😮) if that is an issue. I think because I am a slightly tight knitter I don’t really have a problem with them. I cannot use bamboo or wood needles because I knit on the tighter side. However, my friend, who is a loose knitter cannot use metal needles as both her loose knitting and knitting style means they keep falling out and end up on the floor. I have some very cute needle keepers. They are small silicone figures that fit most sizes of needles. They are addictive..🤭 I have them in the shape of strawberries, pineapples, koala, sheep, dogs, cows, yoda, foxes, etc etc. They stop your stitches falling off and your needles making holes in your bag. The only thing I would prefer is for them to be fastened together so you don’t lose your empty needle 😉 I like the look of the yarn keeper bag that snaps at the top. I am not an intarsia knitter but I do knit using two strands and they get sooo twisted. Any tips how to stop this happening? I end up hanging my knitting every few rows to allow it to untwist 🫣
@NerdyKnitting
10 ай бұрын
When I'm using more than one strand I try to pay attention to the direction I'm turning my work and try to turn in the opposite direction to 'untwist' the yarn.
@kimilini4814
11 ай бұрын
If I remember, I do appreciate my thumb row counter (like what the bus driver had) but after so many repeats I catch on and don’t need it any more. Important note on stitch markers. The little loopy markers you’re mentioning are meant for crochet. They hold on to a crochet stitch a bit better and are generally only used to keep track of stitch counts on a foundation row. Just thought that may give you a different idea on usage :) My favorite cable needles are large safety pin looking ones for the curve like your first preferred example
@kimilini4814
11 ай бұрын
I also love my Denise needles, but if I’m on straight needles they are bamboo clover needles
@z50schild
11 ай бұрын
I do use row counters. I use the digital one, that fits around your finger, and I use one from clover, analog, that you can lock. I use the digital one for something with endless repeats of 4 or 8 rows. And I use the clover one I can lock for larger projects that are at risk for getting a lot of pauses. I mean, I can remember what row I was on from yesterday, or maybe even from a week ago, depending on the circumstances. But any longer, i'm not going to remember. I have a young child, nearing his first birthday, a lot of things ended up on pause this year. Either for short moments, but with a chaotic ending (if your child cries, you're not going to remember what row you were on or remember to write it down) or for longer periods, because, such a young child, takes up a lot of time and sleep deprevation takes up a lot of brain space. For stitch markers I really like the lightbulb safety pins. Love them. They're nice and thin and will work with all yarn thicknesses. But as an alternative, I use metal paper clips, which i bended a leg from to open it. It works as a cable needle as wel. They lock way nicer than the spirally stitchmarkers, they work something like the spirally stitchmarkers, but better. But I don't like them for everything. If you carry your work around a lot, the opened leg will snag on a lot of things, including your work.
@karenhoney9850
11 ай бұрын
elastics, small ones as stitch markers and larger ones for securing stitches on needles in the project bag, (wrap multiple times for a secure stopper). A thinner than you usually work cable needle to act as a stitch holder and for picking up disaster stitch spills. I knew I needed the 1.5 mm circular for something. A 1 inch wide school ruler makes a great sock measure .A piece of paper makes a good row tally that can also record notes like time to decrease etc. Store it with the project.
@maureen4669
11 ай бұрын
I learnt to knit as a child and have only just come back to it. How things have changed! I've tried some knitting with circular needles but am finding it difficult to work out how to hold the needles. I need more practice before I splash out and buy some Chiagoos. My favourite row counting method is coloured paper and pencil, making a tally counter and making notes if I have done less rows etc. for one sleeve. I keep the paper in the project bag, so I know where I am when I go back to it.
@sassysuzy4u
11 ай бұрын
Great video! I've never heard of a sock ruler haha I have only ever made socks for myself though, and just traced my foot onto a piece of cardstock and mark the arch and where I want to toe box to end/start.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
I have some cardboard cutouts of our feet too - it's a great way to ensure everything fits without chasing down the intended sock wearer! 😁
@svoboda7466
10 ай бұрын
That's funny. I am watching this video while crocheting and using pretty much the same yarn bowl you have. I use it sometimes for smaller yarn balls. If I have a cake or a some sort of large skein I use a bag because it will not fit into the small bowl.
@naughtscrossstitches
11 ай бұрын
The lobster clasp ones work better with crochet than knitting. I have found that you need that heavier fabric. Though I usually use a paper clip more often than not.
@kellicoffman8440
11 ай бұрын
Use row counters all the time and I bought a stranded color work ring 💍 haven’t used it i also have used cable needles. I use stitch markers a lot
@cathieclove3101
10 ай бұрын
my favorite tool is the susan bates silvalume handi tool. it's my everything go-to. also, I love the clover kacha kacha row counters. I wear them around my neck with paracord my husband tied. I knit cables projects and I use the same shaped needle as your purple one. 👍 I also use my two yarn bowls. but I've NEVER thread the yarn thru the J. 😆 I guess I use more gadgets than most.
@teriadams7398
11 ай бұрын
I love coiless pins as a stitch markers. The closed rings sometimes I would forget and need to cut out of my knitting 😂
@catardif4158
10 ай бұрын
I have a number of sets of Addi Heart needle holders. They are spring loaded and hold on to the needles very tightly, and yet are easy to remove. They come in two sizes that actually work with all of my needles. The small one works on US 000-8, and the large one works with US 9-15. Plus, they are cute. :)
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
They ARE cute! I'm wanting to buy a smaller one for the new set of Addi's I got recently. I love the cords! And the fact that I don't have to dig out a tool to tighten them - but it did take me a bit to learn to insert the cords correctly! Won't lie. Still love my ChiaGoo's too - but I can use either set.
@Sangouiche
11 ай бұрын
The little bag for Intarsia could be nice but if you're not sure, maybe you can take a bag and close it with a couple of clothepins ? To separate the yarn ? Then you can try the intarsia bag without having to buy one !
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
That's a great idea!
@madeingunsa
11 ай бұрын
I love the stitch count ring thing because if you do a lot of amigurumis is so much comfortable/easy to count rounds (because as you have very few stitches you end rounds very fast) and if you stop working, when you pick it up again you know immediately in which round you are. Regarding about the measurements of the gauge swatches I might have a clue of why 4". 4" = 10cm. I use metric system to count everything, and in metric system, you want a multiple of 10 to be easy to calculate. Because multiplying or dividing by 10 is so easy that you don't usually need a calculator. For example, if your gauge is 20 stitches in 10cm (4") if you need 100cm you can do that by head and it's 200 stitches. That's why I think this "rule" was made taking in account the metric system and then adapted to the imperial system. I use metal cable needles that have two ends because you could slide the stitches in one end and then use the other end to knit the stitches when needed. I don' like using dpns because they always fall of my hands while working. And now I will start my rant about sock blockers! You make a sock that has a negative ease and then you bock it. What happens then? That your negative ease finished snugly sock grows and then you have a BIG sock for your feet/foot size! And when you use it it grows more because of corporal heat so, at the end of the day, you have a very uncomfortable sock only because you decide it to block it. Only block it if you want nice instagram pics but if you want to have confortable socks for your size, don't block them... Barber cords are wonderful items to have in your notions bag. I use them for everything. Also I bought a 15m long cord in amazon and I cut it where I want, so very good investment.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
I hadn't thought about the metric system but that makes complete sense!
@fairboxie
11 ай бұрын
I dislike the lobster claw dangly stitch markers too, but I found a solution! I had some rings laying around because they're so pretty and I like them but I never wear jewelry so I started using them for stitch markers. I even went to the thrift store and bought some cheap rings too. Nothing too snaggy or big, but with sparkly gems or signets or whatever, they're just so pretty to look at while you're knitting.
@ladymacb29
11 ай бұрын
I always use a digital row counter... it's so easy for me to just hit it with my thumb.
@rowenaphilbeck1919
11 ай бұрын
I use my plastic cable needles They work great for me.
@topstitchgirl
11 ай бұрын
For me, it's 9" circular needles for knitting socks. This one is on me because I don't like 16" circs either, I'd rather magic loop. And because of the way I hold my needles, there was no way I'd enjoy knitting with a circ that has a 2" tip. But I bought it anyway and immediately regretted my purchase. You will pry my colourwork ring from my cold, dead hands. I use it because I'm a continental knitter, and I really hate holding yarn with my right hand, so the ring is a godsend. As for the cute stitch markers with the lobster claws, I always attach them to a ring stitch marker and use them that way, never on their own. But usually only one at a time as a BOR marker because more than one on a project gets aggravating.
@kristad9016
10 ай бұрын
The fancy knitting pattern “holder” that has magnets, and is made from cardboard with metal inside for the magnets to stick to….I tried it, and wow, do I hate it. The feel of the cardboard is so yucky and it always flops closed when moving the magnets, what a pain. I spent more time fiddling with it than knitting.
@Arieltheonly
11 ай бұрын
When i first started knitting i never used stitch markers and would make so many mistakes becase of it. I only recently started using them this past year because I got them in a kit last christmas. I love cable needles but only the ones that look like paper clips since i need alot of stitches on them. I just found those needle stoppers and its a game changer. I stopped knitting for 4 years because j was frustrated that my yarn kept falling off that and carpal tunnel. And learned crochet instead. But do knitting and crochet now. I hate dpns. I find them pointless, especially since circular needles are so much easier. Work smarte not harder. I use circular for everything. I learned knitting on circular too
@EuleMarija
11 ай бұрын
I am a big fan of interchangeable needles. So, whenever I have to put my stitches on rest, all I have to do is screw off the needles and screw on the stoppers they usually come with. And when it is time to continue working on the part of my project I just take off stoppers and get on my needles 🙃 I am so happy for not having any useless notions as I don’t buy them in advance 😊
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
YES! I love your usage for the cords. That's how I use mine too. I think they were intended to be used like this.
@Shewhoknitsandspins
11 ай бұрын
I just bought some needle protectors from Comma Craft Co. these are not what’s available in stores. My favorite is: Yes, I am that Bitch.
@originalmahgwet
11 ай бұрын
I can't keep track of how many rows I've done without my Row counter.
@moonbasket
11 ай бұрын
I would love to hear your thoughts on the colorwork ring. I do lots of colorwork, but haven't tried out the ring yet. I don't have tension issues and have just accepted that the yarn is going to be twisty, so it hasn't seemed necessary. My most used random notion is a needle gauge. I have so many DPNs and miscellaneous circulars that I have thrifted or inherited that don't have a size printed on them. I keep the needle gauge in my bag with all my needles, so that I can always double check the size of the needles I'm grabbing. I want to sew myself a needle book of some sort, but I haven't gotten around to it. Haha.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
Love a needle gauge too - I'm always double-checking before starting a new project! 😁
@midwestkatie4
11 ай бұрын
My grandma used to use a bobby pin as a cable needle.
@RachelCunningham-ut9ks
11 ай бұрын
send me those row counters! i have almost one for every project.
@laurayoungmark334
11 ай бұрын
Yarn bowls... I have 1 "official" yarn bowl and 2 regular bowls that have been pressed into service 😂. My uncle does pottery, he has made cups, serving bowls etc but i use it for yarn because its beautiful. The other two i picked up from local crafters who had their work displayed in small giftshops near me. None were actually sold through a yarn store just local family businesses near me so Igot them much cheaper than I had seen in the craft/yarn stores/websites etc and they're all lovely. I also like to support other crafters when I can. I like using bowls because I knit from either a cake or a ball... usually a cake, and with it in the bowl i don't have to stop and unwind the yarn i just let the cake spin. The key is that the bowl needs to be roughly as tall as the cake/ball so that the yarn can move within the bowl but not escape. And of course it helps if you have a designated spot to knit so that you just park the bowl in your spot and have it waiting for you to knit
@laurayoungmark334
11 ай бұрын
Oh and one of them is a small wooden bowl. Very lightweight and it fits perfectly in my knitting bag for my "on the go" projects and its great for those out of the house knitting drop-ins/classes to whip out if i need to put my yarn on the floor or on a table and keep my yarn from rolling away.
@verylikecheryl
11 ай бұрын
Silicone teething beads are brilliant needle stoppers. Idea courtesy of @westmaven
@ArooDoggo
11 ай бұрын
Oh goodness no I can’t not use a row counter, I have a counter on my phone. My mind wanders too much during the crochet process to count my rows in my head! When I get to my stitch marker I just tap my screen and it keeps track for me 😂
@Kansaschickie
10 ай бұрын
Lobster claw markers are for crocheting.
@BookAndLace
10 ай бұрын
I can’t stand my yarn loose in a bag. I have two hard yarn bowls & a small repurposed plastic ice cream container. I totally take them with if I’m taking a knitting project with me. I knit lace weight and my own spun yarns. Don’t like the charms stitch makers they snag on everything. I prefer the lightweight “safety pin” kind. Those finger rings for tension/yarn guide. I knit Portuguese style and just don’t have a use for them.
@dozergetscrafty
11 ай бұрын
I use stitch holders as cable needles. I dont take any chances 😆
@maybeChrist777
11 ай бұрын
I use a crochet hook instead of a cable needle.
@pattiann8477
11 ай бұрын
Take those lobster clasp markers and put them on your zippers if you REALLY love them! They are great there! Little kiddies really love them too!
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
Great idea!
@Shipper08
8 ай бұрын
The cable needles from Daiso were plastic and HORRIBLY slippery.
@heartstoe1
10 ай бұрын
I just use hair ties to secure my needles when I'm not working on the project.
@hmmcminn7221
11 ай бұрын
Needle stopper/protector hack: I use foam ear plugs as needle stoppers (all different kinds). You don’t have to worry about finding the right size to fit your needle. Also, if you don’t push them all the way through the plug, your needles won’t poke your bag fabric. You can find these in big tubs much cheaper than actual stoppers.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
I love that tip - thank you!
@michaelabeijer675
11 ай бұрын
Brilliant!
@brittbella6573
11 ай бұрын
This is a great tip! I’m going to try this when I start buying smaller needles. (I’ve already wasted money on large needle stoppers. 😂)
@elisekt1860
11 ай бұрын
I also use cork or packaging peanuts
@TarisLuna
10 ай бұрын
Yes! A woman in my knitting / crochet group was looking for something to keep her stuff from slipping off and my first idea was to use foam earplugs.
@meletcl
11 ай бұрын
Circular needles didn't exist when I first learned how to knit back in the Dark Ages. The technique that my mom taught me was to tuck a needle in my arm pit which provides leverage in such a way that you can just manipulate the lefthanded needle (English style here) to create stitches. I later learned that this technique is called Irish production knitting and is also similar to the Shetland Is. knitting style. You can build up a lot of speed with this knitting style and I find it takes pressure off my wrists. I do use circular needles as I am not stuck in a time warp but I cannot knit as rapidly with circular needles. Not having to sew up seams is a plus in favor of circulars. Straight needles now have few fans but they served me well for many years.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
I'm going to have to try that method of tucking the needle under my arm - that sounds so much more comfortable than just holding both (and having the right needle constantly hit my forearm). Thanks for sharing!
@meletcl
11 ай бұрын
A good example of "pit knitting" with a twist - check out Hazel Tindall who uses a knitting belt. The famed Shetland Is. knitters used knitting belts which provided the leverage that tucking the right hand needle under your arm does. Also you don't throw the yarn but "flick" it. Hope this technique works well for you! 😊 It really is an ergonomic knitting style.
@nuriagiralt617
11 ай бұрын
I learned the same way and I'm still trying to "learn" to use circular needles. I want to be able to knit without a seam and to do stockinette without purling!
@meletcl
11 ай бұрын
@@nuriagiralt617 It takes some time to adjust to circular needles if you have been using straight ones so try to be patient with yourself and the process.
@ElinT13
11 ай бұрын
This is how I learned to knit as well. But once I tried circulars, I was hooked. Now I am too lazy to use anything else, whatever I knit.
@Angela-en6oh
11 ай бұрын
Finally - a knitting presenter who actually talks about knitting, rather than all that “personal stuff”. (Sorry, I know I sound very callous with that comment and hope you won’t judge me too harshly.) I have looked at a LOT of these videos, trying to find something that I can identify with as well as be of interest to someone, like me, who has been knitting for over 60 years. So, I hit the subscribe button and am looking forward to seeing what you have planned for your next video.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
Welcome!
@lesleyoliver3310
10 ай бұрын
I have been crocheting or knitting for about 58 years and hear you. Just subscribed myself. 🐨🦘👋🏻
@Angela-en6oh
10 ай бұрын
@@lesleyoliver3310 Hello Lesley - nice to have contact with someone from Australia all the way to Cornwall. I had hoped not to sound to “nasty” with my comment, so I thank you very sincerely for your supportive message. Now - let’s see what the next video serves up.
@lesleyoliver3310
10 ай бұрын
@@Angela-en6oh not nasty at all and 40 others gave a thumbs up to the your comment. Have a great crafting week. 🐨👋🏻
@Angela-en6oh
10 ай бұрын
@@lesleyoliver3310 Hello Lesley. Thank you. I appreciate your comment. As to my “knitting week”, I was asked by a friend, whose daughter works with premature babies, to knit some really tiny covers to hold drips in place for some of the children she is helping. She even gave me a proper knitting pattern to follow! So I’m off to my wool stash ….. Have a great creative week too.
@MySweetT1
11 ай бұрын
I like to use yarn bowls to keep my yarn cakes from collapsing when they get used up. Especially if I am using cotton cakes. It keeps tangling at a minimum.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
Have you seen the newer holders/feeders that hold a cake/ball and have a hook neck like a swan? They're not too big and are really fabulous! It's like you never need to tug or pull yarn - like yarn just floats through the air and lands perfectly at your needles! I really love it! They keep balls from collapsing too! I now have 2, where I'll use one for each color, and it works so well. This is something I don't ever see knitting without again, unless I'm traveling. I loved it so much I just bought a tad different style that can hang from wrist or the glove compartment in car, that I hope will be just as smooth! We'll see! Thought I'd try it.
@pinkpandamiranda
11 ай бұрын
I love a good stitch counter, especially when I'm doing a new pattern. They help me remember where I am when I get back to my project sometimes days after I stopped.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
And I can never remember if I've punched it or not! So not working well for me. I tend to mark up my patterns with hatch marks or use a homemade chain of lightbulb marks (add 1 each round) so that I know my exact place.
@ReallyACactus
11 ай бұрын
I tried an analog row counter on a whim, and I just place it at the beginning of my row (if in the round) or somewhere in the middle (if knitting flat) and it's honestly been the best. Its hard to forget about it because it's literally a stitch marker
@becci8099
10 ай бұрын
Those are the best ones. I actually love the ones that are a stich markers. The other ones that are not right in project I will forget 😅
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
@@becci8099 I have one of these, and do use it often! I like it also.
@Shewhoknitsandspins
11 ай бұрын
Those split rings are absolutely wonderful in crochet.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
Good to know! I'm doing some crochet so I'll put those with my crochet projects instead of my knit projects! Thanks!
@ElinT13
11 ай бұрын
Yep, a pain in the neck while knitting, but perfect for crocheting!
@leaj3799
11 ай бұрын
How so? I think of myself as a crocheter more than a knitter but I’m competent in both. However for stitch markers I also prefer the light bulb pins for several reasons:1- can remove easily from crochet projects as well as use them at the end of a row or in the middle to stop last stitch from unraveling, 2- slide easily for row repeats in knitting and sit nicely on circular needles (not a fan of the single use circle ones like the Chiaagoo but that’s personal preference because I value easy removablity), 3- are magnetic so easy to keep track of if you have magnet handy (also a good notion to use with metal cable needles- and yes I too like the “hook”/u shaped ones vs. nasty plastic) and 4- cheap to buy in large batches with lots of contrasting colors that you can spread across those multiple project bags as needed so if lost you don’t care as much (vs. expensive but cute lobster claws - and yes I love the look of charm bracelets but totally hate the dangling effect!)
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
I like the metal ones for my knitting, but not the big old plastic rings. The metal ones seem to stay in place better when knitting - for me, anyway.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
@@leaj3799 I love the ones from ChiaGoo - but they only belong in specific places, and in other places, I use removeable SM's. I like the ChiaGoo resin ones for BOR type markers, or for socks, but mostly do use the smaller ones. Mine have held up really well for several years now. Removable ones do tend to have more uses, so I use both.
@SharonCullenArt
11 ай бұрын
I use the square button push row counters and like them. But I do use markers for sleeves counting decreases. I don’t use needle covers. I just pull my circulars when I put them away and no problem. The only time I lose stitches is when I accidentally pull them off while knitting or when my dog jumps in my lap.😊
@elisestrikker
11 ай бұрын
In Norway everybody has started using silicone beads as needle protectors/needle stoppers, they work great and you can find them in many cute designs. As a Norwegian who knits a lot of colorwork I find the colorwork rings useless, more hassle than help. I do love progresskeepers (the stitchmarkers with a clawclip) for showing me how far I have knitted and marking the rightside if I knit something in the round with magic loop.
@Wanda-R-etc
10 ай бұрын
That's how I use the lobster clasp stitchmarkers as well. And a Dutch girl here but I learned how to do colorwork without any yarn gadgets too. Once you learn it, you will never unlearn! 😊
@flickslandan8262
10 ай бұрын
I prefer a lightbulb saftey pin over the lobster type. Is the pearls the ones that are sold for baby "fake nipple" bands? I don't know the English word for the thing babies use to suck on.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
@@flickslandan8262 Me, too! Lightbulb markers are lighter weight, don't stretch my stiches, and I can add a new one each round, thus counting my rounds. Since they stay in place at BOR, I know right where I am.
@CMeyer-ut3dd
11 ай бұрын
I like the idea of passing the stuff I don’t like to someone else. We might save that person some money in case they wanted to buy it.
@Goshgolly27
10 ай бұрын
I don’t use the lobster claw markers in knitting, but they work great in crochet! You can clip them around the body of a stitch easily. While theme sets are great, I try to look for ones that don’t have a lot of sticky-out bits so they don’t grab the yarn when I am slinging my projects around.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
Those lobster claws can be very heavy and drag down my knitting - even had some pull my stitches way out of shape! I personally avoid them, as I have other things I can use and that work better, in their place. I think it's just a cheap alternative that is easy to find for some resellers/crafters.
@cmangaudis
11 ай бұрын
I am with you on most of your “don’t likes”. What I have come to love and have learned to make are chain row counters. It took me quite a while to figure them out - I’m a 55+ year paper and pen user 😂 - I like them because they are light and they stay IN your project so can’t be lost and they move like a stitch marker so there is no forgetting about it. I am the poster woman for the fact that old dogs CAN learn new tricks 😉 I also like the plastic end with the elastic in the middle to hold my dpn’s- I think they are called Needle Huggers. They protect the tips and keep the project in the needles.
@misselanys1219
10 ай бұрын
Do you have a tutorial for making one of these row counter chains?
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
I agree! I like the ones with the little wooden number markings because they're very light! I tried the ones with the metal numbers on the rings, but they got heavy on my needles and drug me down! I decided to try one with wood that had the row #'s on it and they worked great - even on Size 1 needles! They're lightweight, and don't feel like anything on the needle, and I also use it in place of a marker for BOR, so I don't miss counting my row! Great idea.
@sundaesx
11 ай бұрын
I invested in some seriously expensive straight needles a long while back, they didn't last a month because I soon found out about circular needles.. now they are just being pretty in a jar.. really, circulars are where its at!
@karenalbery2773
11 ай бұрын
Yes the yarn bowl is for people who have beautiful dedicated knitting space and no pets kids to break them, steal them, toss the yarn out and use them to house rock collections or hot wheels cars obstacles....
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
😆 It sounds like you are speaking from experience!
@karenalbery2773
11 ай бұрын
100%
@QuzieSuzieQ
9 ай бұрын
My favorite thing for keeping dpns and sock projects is dpn sleeves or coozies. I sew rectangles together leaving one long end open. I add two snaps on each of the open ends it allows the project to hang freely and the snaps keep the project from falling off the needles. I usually sew them to match my project bags. Best option I have found for making dpn projects portable.
@DGaryMoore
11 ай бұрын
I use the green Clover row counters (that clock) all the time while knitting socks. Pehaps I could count, but the row counters make it a lot easier for me. In addition, a yarn bowl is great, as you mentioned, for a single project in a single location, but don't work very well if you draw your yarn from the center as I do.
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
Or travel!
@Dreamknitgirl-1
11 ай бұрын
I just use rubber bands to make loose knots at ends of circular needles. It’s a really inexpensive but effective way to not lose my work when pulling it out of the bag
@annes7926
10 ай бұрын
I use a row counter - it’s a green Clover one with a lock. I started knitting with British patterns that used row counts. I still use them because it helps me make sure increases or decreases are done properly, and my garment pieces are the same length. My go to is using a lanyard for snips, measuring tape, and row counter. I don’t put it around my neck, but it makes them easy to find. I do use a yarn bowl, but only for specific projects. I have smaller projects that roam with me. Excited to have found your channel.
@christielamb2894
11 ай бұрын
Hi Tonia, I really like using #3 crochet cotton (the doily thread) for lifelines, provisional cast on and even to keep completed pieces of projects (like knit toys or amigurumi) together until I'm ready to assemble. One of my favorite "notions" is a Barbie doll sized knit beanie. I use it to keep my life line pieces in and to keep my darning needles where I can always find them. I like small hinged tins or empty prescription bottles (the ones that are about the same diameter as a silver dollar) for holding a pair of folding scissors, a row counter, stitch markers, a few bobby pins (they can be used in so many ways, even as a cable needle in a pinch), buttons - if my project requires them, a short measuring tape, a yarn needle and any else I can squeeze in that I might need. They're small enough to toss into any and all my project bags. 💜✌️🧶
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
I like your organizational methods!
@christielamb2894
11 ай бұрын
@@NerdyKnitting thank you. I've got plenty of prescription meds for my type 2 diabetes so I'm always looking for ways to recycle the empties. Plus I like the fact that the child proof lids keep my smaller tools safely away from the kiddos (and my cats too). I'd like to add that I love the dental floss samples that are sometimes included in the bag-o-goodies the dentist gives you when you visit their office. Unwaxed floss also works well for lifelines and the cutter part of the dispenser will cut your smaller gauge yarns in a pinch. Also, when the floss runs out you can open the outer container and reload the spool with cotton doily thread.
@Wanda-R-etc
10 ай бұрын
Prescription bottles are also useful for keeping scraps, across the ocean we don't have the safety bottles but we do have a lot of sizes. And I like to reuse them as well. Even give them away to caretakers, friends and so on. Everyone can find use for them somewhere. 😂
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
@@christielamb2894 Wonderful ideas!
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
@@Wanda-R-etc I've always used them in my sewing/quilting machines to put used needles into (I poke a hole in the lid) and it keeps them safe from little hands and my puppy! Works great, and can hold alot, and fits in a very small space. Good idea to use for knitting notion too!
@latesummerlife
10 ай бұрын
To keep keep my double pointed needles from poking through my bag, I use a bag that's made from recycled billboards(sounds weird, but apparently billboards are made from like a reniforced plastic tarp material thats still flexible). They were selling the bags in my local knitting shop and I originally bought it because it seemed sturdy enough to keep my cats out of my yarn. I think another thing that helps is using a bag just large enough for your project. That way everything is in their snuggly and your project isn't bouncing around with needles and stitch markers falling off.
@yarnastherapy
11 ай бұрын
I agree about the yarn bowls! I *LOVE* their beauty - but I'm a "bag full o' yarn" kinda girl!! Stitch markers: I make my own, and I use the LARGE Lobster Claw/Clasps, which are much less aggravating than the smaller ones, which I agree with you are annoying 🙂
@beverlythompson3246
11 ай бұрын
I must be the only person who likes my row counters! Use them on every project. Do not like the silicone cords- they never stay on the needle! When I want to try my garment on I use a second needle of the same size and knit halfway around. After trying the garment on, I complete the round and then go back to my original interchangeable needle the next round.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
You're not the only one who likes row counters - there have been LOTS of comments from people who use them! And great tip about using a second needle when trying things on!
@debradockendorf3155
11 ай бұрын
I’ve use the progress keepers as zipper pulls on some of my project bags. These bags have the standard zipper pull. I don’t like the lobster claw either. I slip a light bulb marker through the lobster claw if I want to place it on my work. I use them often to mark the starting point for counting.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
Love the idea of using the progress keepers as zipper pulls!
@WhattheBeck
10 ай бұрын
the lobster clasp stitch markers are definitely better suited as keychain additions or charms on a bracelet 😂 i love my notebook more than row counters but sometimes i stick one on my needle to keep my place when i know a project is going into hibernation
@maryfrank2175
2 ай бұрын
Yes - and I tend to use lightbulb stitch markers, and just one each BOR. It works great - and I never have to worder if I've marked my round! I just chain them together on/by the 1st stitch, and it's always accurate.
@Samsona75
11 ай бұрын
I use thé lobster claw stitch markers as zipper pulls on my project bags. Never on my actual knits.
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
Great idea!
@SarahJo
11 ай бұрын
I love those little needle topers! When I use DPN's I'm always worried my stitches are going to slide off, so I just put the needle toppers on each DPN and rotate them as I knit, works great!
@NerdyKnitting
11 ай бұрын
I never thought about using them as I was knitting - just for storing. Now I might have to rethink them! 😁
@lbrowning2543
11 ай бұрын
Me too. They keep stitches from slipping off.
@CMeyer-ut3dd
11 ай бұрын
My DPNs drop out of my hands and into the side of the chair. These toppers help with that problem
@rmonogue
5 ай бұрын
I use yarn bowls for holding a ball or cake of yarn when winding bobbins for weaving, or when re-winding a cake to make it looser. For DPNs I just put a rubber band around them, wrapping it around both ends after bundling them. I’ve heard about DPN coozies with snaps that I might try making. I have a couple row counters made from a chain of loops with numbered beads. They can count up to 99 by moving a lobster claw bead for the 10s digit. They work great for me, but I don’t mind dangly charm bracelets. 😂 I cut off the leg portion of worn out commercial socks to make yarn cozies. They squeeze the yarn cake together as I pull yarn from the center, and also help keep them from tangling. I knit socks and gloves 2 at a time, so I’m always splitting my skeins into 2 cakes which both live in my project bag.
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