Knitting in the Round: Mastering Double-Pointed Needles
If you're a knitting enthusiast, you've probably come across double pointed needles along the way. Double-pointed needles, also known as DPNs, are a versatile tool that can be used to knit a variety of projects, including socks, hats, sleeves, and small toys. While DPNs may seem intimidating at first, they are quite easy to use with a little practice. In this tutorial, we'll talk about double-pointed needles, from understanding what they are to mastering their use.
Double pointed needles, as their name suggests, these knitting needles have points at both ends and no stopper in the middle. These usually come in sets of four or five and are used for knitting in the round. Knitting in the round is a technique where you create a seamless, tube-like fabric, perfect for socks, gloves, hats, and other cylindrical projects. The narrowness of the double pointed needles ensures that stitches don't slip off, even when working with delicate yarns.
These needles are like all-in-one tools because you can use them for a wide range of projects, from small and delicate items like lace shawls to bigger, more intricate pieces like sweaters and mittens. Unlike straight knitting needles, DPNs allow knitters to seamlessly join stitches in the round, creating three-dimensional projects without any visible seams. They're especially handy for projects with small circumferences, like sleeves and baby clothes, where regular circular needles might be too long or tricky. Also, these needles are easy to carry around because they're small and lightweight. So, whether you're heading to a knitting group or going on a trip, DPNs make it convenient to keep your knitting projects on track.
What to Look for in Double Pointed Needles
When choosing DPNs, it is important to consider the following factors:
Materials: DPNs are available in materials like bamboo, wood, metal, and plastic. Each material has its unique feel, so consider your personal preference for texture and weight.
Yarn: Choose a yarn suitable for your project, and make sure it matches the recommended needle size.
Size: DPNs come in a variety of sizes, from 2.25mm to 12.75mm. The size of the needles you need will depend on the yarn you are using and the project you are knitting.
Point: The point of the needles should be sharp and smooth. This will help you to avoid splitting your yarn.
Number of needles: DPNs are typically sold in sets of four or five. You will need four needles to knit a small project, such as a sock, and five needles to knit a larger project, such as a hat.
Tapestry Needle: You'll use this to weave in loose ends when you finish your project.
Getting Started with Double Pointed Needles
Casting On Stitches: Cast on the required number of stitches using one DPN. Spread the stitches evenly across the needles.
Joining in the Round: Ensure that your stitches are not twisted on the needles. Hold your working yarn (attached to the ball) and use another DPN to knit the first stitch on the first needle to form a circle. Optionally, place a stitch marker to mark the beginning of the round.
Knitting the Round: With the working yarn at the back, insert the needle from left to right into the first stitch. Wrap the yarn around the needle from back to front (like a regular knit stitch). Pull the loop through the stitch and slide it off the left needle.
Continuing to Knit: After finishing the stitches on one needle, switch to the next. Repeat knitting all the stitches on each needle, working one needle at a time. Don't worry if other DPNs stick out; focus on the one you're using.
Changing Needles: When you've finished knitting all the stitches on one needle, put it down and pick up the next DPN with the next set of stitches. Continue in this manner until you have completed one full round. Continue knitting in the round, repeating the steps. Optionally, move the stitch marker at the start of each new round.
Decreases (If needed): If your pattern asks for decreases, follow instructions (e.g., K2tog or SSK) for shaping.
Binding Off: Bind off when your project reaches the desired length. Knit two stitches and then lift the first stitch over the second. Continue binding off until one stitch remains. Cut the yarn, leave a tail, and pull it through the final stitch to secure. To weave in loose ends, use a tapestry needle, ensuring they are secure and hidden.
That's it! You've successfully knitted in the round using double pointed needles.
Exploring Advanced Techniques with DPNs
Once you've mastered the basics of using double pointed needles, you can explore more advanced techniques. These include:
Cables: Create intricate cable patterns by crossing stitches over each other using DPNs that add a beautiful and textured dimension to your projects. DPNs provide the precision needed to navigate cable twists, making them an essential tool for cable knitting enthusiasts.
Colorwork: Experiment with colorwork techniques such as Fair Isle and stranded knitting to add beautiful designs to your items. The ability to distribute stitches evenly across multiple needles makes DPNs well-suited for colorwork projects.
Lacework: Elevate your knitting projects with delicate lace patterns using DPNs. The short length of these needles allows for precise manoeuvring, enabling you to execute intricate lace stitches seamlessly. Whether you're crafting a lace shawl or incorporating lace elements into socks or mittens, DPNs offer the control needed for achieving stunning lacework.
Twisted Stitches: Add texture and depth to your knitting projects by incorporating twisted stitches with double-pointed needles. Twisted stitches involve knitting through the back loop, creating a twisted effect that adds visual interest to your work. DPNs provide the control needed for executing twisted stitches precisely.
