Mastering Circular Knitting: A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Double Pointed Needles

Do you love the look of seamless and professional knitted pieces? Are you wanting to tackle more advanced knitting projects but don’t know where to start? Look no further, because in this article we will be delving into the world of knitting in the round using double pointed needles. Whether you’re a beginner looking to expand your skills or an experienced crafter wanting to try something new, this technique is both versatile and rewarding. Join us as we explore how to master this essential knitting skill.

What are Double Pointed Needles?

Double pointed needles, also known as DPNs, are essential tools for knitting in the round. They are long, thin needles that come in sets of four or five, with two pointed ends on each needle. DPNS can vary in length and size. They are commonly used for creating seamless projects such as hats, socks, gloves, and sleeves.

The use of double pointed needles dates back to the 19th century when circular knitting became popular. Before then, knitters used to knit flat pieces and sew them together to create a three-dimensional shape. However, this method was time-consuming and required a lot of skill to match the seams. The invention of double pointed needles revolutionized knitting by allowing knitters to work on their projects in the round seamlessly.

Benefits of Knitting In The Round Using Double Pointed Needles

Knitting in the round using double pointed needles has several advantages over flat knitting or using circular needles. Here are some benefits:

1) Seamless construction: Unlike flat knitting where you have to stitch pieces together, working with DPNs allows you to create a seamless item without any seams showing.

2) Portability: Double pointed needles are much smaller compared to straight knitting needles or circular needles. This makes them easy to carry around with you wherever you go, making them great for on-the-go knitting projects.

3) Better tension control: Knitting in the round using DPNs allows you to control your tension more accurately since there are no seams interfering with your stitches. This results in a more even and professional-looking finished project.

4) Versatility: You can use DPNs for various projects such as hats, socks, gloves, and sleeves. This versatility makes them a must-have tool for any knitter.

How To Set Up Your Double Pointed Needles

Setting up your double pointed needles correctly is crucial for a successful knitting in the round project. Follow these steps to set up your DPNs:

1) Gather your materials: Before starting, make sure you have all your materials ready, including yarn, double pointed needles, stitch markers, and scissors.

2) Cast on stitches: Use a long-tail cast-on method to cast on the required number of stitches onto one of your DPNs. Leave a long tail at the beginning that will be used later to close any gaps.

3) Divide stitches: Once you have cast on all your stitches, divide them evenly between three needles, with each needle holding approximately one-third of the stitches.

4) Join in the round: Hold all three needles together in your left hand and use the fourth needle to knit across the first needle’s stitches. This will join your work in the round.

5) Be careful not to twist: Before starting to knit, make sure that all your cast-on stitches are facing inside and not twisted around the needles.

6) Place markers: To keep track of where each round begins and ends, place a stitch marker on one of the needles. You can also add stitch markers at different points if needed.

Knitting In The Round Using Double Pointed Needles

Now that you have set up your DPNs let’s get started with knitting in the round. Follow these steps:

1) Hold your work: To begin knitting, hold your work with all the needles in one hand (usually left for right-handed knitters) and use another needle (usually held in the right hand) to knit onto those stitches.

2) Knit around: Start knitting using a simple knit stitch throughout. Remember that you will always be working on the right side of your work when using DPNs.

3) Shifting needles: When you finish knitting all the stitches on one needle, transfer it to your left hand and bring an empty needle from your right hand to continue knitting.

4) Be careful of ladders: Ladders, or loose strands between your needles, are common when using DPNs. To avoid them, make sure to pull the first stitch tightly when you start a new needle.

5) Increase or decrease: While knitting in the round using DPNs, you may need to increase or decrease stitches. You can do this by following the patterns’ instructions or by simply making a knit increase or decrease on one of your needles.

6) Check for gaps: Every few rows, check for any gaps between your needles and use the tail left during casting on to close them up.

Finishing Your Project

Once you have completed all the rounds of knitting, you will need to finish off your project. Here’s how:

1) Weaving in ends: Cut off the yarn from your working yarn’s last stitch and weave in any loose ends using a tapestry needle.

2) Binding off: When you have reached the final row, bind off using a stretchy method such as the Elizabeth Zimmerman sewn bind-off method. This will ensure that your edge is not

Benefits of Knitting in the Round Using Double Pointed Needles

Knitting is a beloved craft that has been around for centuries. It not only provides a creative outlet but also offers numerous benefits to the knitter. One popular technique used by experienced knitters is knitting in the round using double pointed needles. This technique has gained popularity due to its unique benefits which we will explore further.

First and foremost, knitting in the round eliminates the need for seaming. Seaming can be a tedious and time-consuming process, especially for large projects such as sweaters or blankets. With double pointed needles, you can seamlessly knit in a continuous round creating a beautiful seamless garment. This not only saves time but also creates a polished and professional finish to your project.

Another advantage of using double pointed needles is that they allow you to easily create circular or tubular knitting. This means you can create hats, socks, and even sleeves without having to change from straight needles to circular needles. This is particularly useful for those who are new to circular knitting as it eliminates the need for additional equipment and simplifies the process.

Furthermore, knitting in the round with double pointed needles offers excellent tension control. With traditional straight needles, there is often uneven tension along the row due to the shifting of stitches from one needle to another. In contrast, with double pointed needles, there is no shifting of stitches which leads to more consistent tension throughout your project. This not only creates a more professional finish but also makes it easier to join different color yarns without any noticeable variation in tension.

How To Choose The Right Double Pointed Needles

When it comes to choosing double pointed needles, there are various materials and sizes available on the market. The most common materials used are wood, metal (such as aluminum or stainless steel), and plastic. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages.

Wooden needles are excellent for beginners as they offer a good grip and tend to be lightweight. They also provide a warm touch, making them ideal for those who have trouble with cold hands. However, wooden needles may not be the best choice for more advanced knitters as they tend to bend and break under pressure.

Metal needles, on the other hand, are stronger and more durable than wooden needles. They offer less friction which allows stitches to glide easily. This makes them perfect for working with delicate yarns or when speed is required. However, metal needles are quite slippery which can make it challenging to control tension, especially for new knitters.

Plastic needles are generally the most affordable option and work well with most yarn types. They have a smooth surface that allows stitches to slide easily while still providing enough resistance for better control over tension. However, plastic needles can feel rigid and uncomfortable in the hands, making them inappropriate for projects that require long hours of knitting.

When selecting double pointed needle size, keep in mind that the finished product’s circumference will determine what size needle you need. Typically, smaller projects like socks or hats require smaller needle sizes (US 0-2). While larger projects such as sweaters or blankets will require larger needle sizes (US 8-13). It’s always best to refer to your pattern’s recommended needle size to ensure proper gauge.

Tips For A Successful Experience Knitting In The Round With Double Pointed Needles

Knitting in the round using double pointed needles can be intimidating for beginners but don’t let that discourage you! With some practice and these tips, you’ll be knitting in the round like a pro in no time.

1. Start Small: Begin your journey into circular knitting with small projects such as hats or fingerless gloves. These projects will allow you to get comfortable with the technique before tackling larger projects.

2. Use Stitch Markers: Double pointed needles create a continuous round of knitting, which can be hard to keep track of. Using stitch markers to mark the beginning or end of rounds will make it easier to keep track and ensure your project is the right size.

3. Don’t Leave Long Floats: Floats occur when you carry a yarn across more than four stitches. Leaving long floats on the inside of your work can cause your project to pucker and look uneven. To avoid this, twist the floats every few stitches by bringing the carried yarn over or under the working yarn.

4. Take It Slow: Knitting in the round with double pointed needles requires more concentration and coordination than traditional knitting methods. So when starting, take things slowly and don’t rush through each round.

5. Use Magic Loop Method: If you’re struggling with juggling multiple double pointed needles, consider using the magic loop method instead. This method uses a long circular needle with two different cable lengths that allow you to knit small diameter projects using one cable instead of juggling multiple needles.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Knitting In The Round With Double Pointed Needles

1. Not Using The Right Number Of Needles: Many patterns will indicate how many double pointed needled you should

1. What are double pointed needles and why are they used for knitting in the round?
Double pointed needles, also known as DPNs, are long, thin knitting needles with points at both ends. They are used for knitting in the round because they allow you to seamlessly knit a circular piece without any seams or joins.

2. How many double pointed needles do I need to use when knitting in the round?
Generally, you will need to use four or five double pointed needles when knitting in the round. The exact number depends on your pattern and personal preference.

3. How do I hold the double pointed needles while knitting in the round?
There are a few different ways to hold double pointed needles while knitting in the round. You can hold them like regular straight needles, with all the stitches on one needle and using another needle to knit. You can also divide your stitches evenly between three or four needles and hold them like a triangle or square.

4. Can I use circular needles instead of double pointed needles for knitting in the round?
Yes, you can use circular needles for small projects that require DPNs, such as socks or gloves. However, if your project is too small for a circular needle with short enough cables, DPNs may be a better choice.

5. How do I avoid gaps between my stitches when using double pointed needles for knitting in the round?
Gaps between stitches can happen when transitioning from one needle to another while using DPNs. To avoid this, make sure to pull your first stitch tightly before starting each new needle and keep tension consistent throughout your project.

6. Is it possible to switch from double pointed needles to magic loop method while still working on my project?
Yes, it is possible to switch from DPNs to magic loop technique if you prefer. Simply divide your stitches evenly between two circular needles and use the magic loop method as usual.

In conclusion, learning how to knit in the round using double pointed needles may seem intimidating at first, but with practice and patience, it can be a rewarding skill to master. The key to success is understanding the basics of knitting and applying them when using double pointed needles. By following the steps of casting on, joining in the round, and working with the needles strategically, you can create seamless and versatile projects such as hats, socks, and sleeves.

It is important to remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to knitting in the round. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts are not perfect – keep practicing and you will see improvement. It is also helpful to seek out additional resources such as classes or online tutorials to further enhance your skills.

Additionally, being comfortable with different stitch patterns and techniques will open up a world of possibilities for your knitting projects. Experimenting with different yarns and needle sizes can also help you create unique textures and designs.

Overall, knitting in the round using double pointed needles allows for continuous circular knitting without the need for seams. This not only creates a cleaner finished product but also eliminates any discomfort caused by seams on garments worn close to the skin.

Lastly, don’t forget to have fun while learning this new skill! Knitting is a relaxing

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.