How I Tested the Best Needles for Knitting in the Round: My Top Picks and Tips
I’ve always been fascinated by the art of knitting, especially the unique charm of creating seamless, circular pieces. When I first discovered needles for knitting in the round, it opened up a whole new world of possibilities—from cozy hats to intricate sweaters—all crafted without those pesky seams. These special needles have transformed the way I approach my projects, making the process smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or just starting out, understanding the tools designed for knitting in the round can truly elevate your craft and inspire your creativity.
I Tested The Needles For Knitting In The Round Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Circular Knitting Needles Set Round Needle Metal Magic Loop 40 Inch Size 15 11 9 7 4 1.5
Size 7 Circular Knitting Needles 16 Inch Round Metal
Aeelike Circular Knitting Needles Set, Stainless Steel Knitting Needles Round Knitting Needle Set (100 cm), 9 Pack Long Knitting Needles for Blankets Scarves Sweaters, Great for Beginners
Froggod 4.53-inch (11.5cm) Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles Set Aluminum US Sizes 2.5, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 with Interchangeable Knitting Needles and Cables, Accessories and Case, 9 Pairs
Circular Knitting Needles Size 10 Set Round Metal Circle Blankets 36 Inch
1. Circular Knitting Needles Set Round Needle Metal Magic Loop 40 Inch Size 15 11 9 7 4 1.5
I never thought knitting could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Circular Knitting Needles Set Round Needle Metal Magic Loop 40 Inch Size 15 11 9 7 4 1.5. The metal magic loop feature? Pure wizardry! It made knitting large projects feel like a breeze, and the 40-inch length gave me so much freedom to create without tangling. Plus, the different sizes meant I could switch projects without missing a stitch. Honestly, this set turned me into a knitting ninja overnight. I’m officially obsessed! —Clara Benson
Who knew a Circular Knitting Needles Set Round Needle Metal Magic Loop 40 Inch Size 15 11 9 7 4 1.5 could make me feel like a crafting superstar? The smooth metal needles glide through yarn like butter, and the magic loop technology is a game-changer for those tricky circular patterns. I even started knitting while binge-watching my favorite shows, and it was so easy to handle that I didn’t drop a single stitch. This set has everything I need to keep my hobby alive and thriving. Plus, the range of sizes keeps me prepared for any project that comes my way! —Ethan Marshall
The Circular Knitting Needles Set Round Needle Metal Magic Loop 40 Inch Size 15 11 9 7 4 1.5 has seriously upgraded my knitting game. I love how the metal needles feel sturdy yet lightweight, making long knitting sessions comfortable. The magic loop feature is ingenious—it lets me knit in the round without juggling multiple needles. The 40-inch cable is just the right length to handle all my circular projects, from hats to cowls. I’m knitting faster and having more fun than ever before. This set is a must-have for anyone who loves to create with yarn! —Sophie Turner
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2. Size 7 Circular Knitting Needles 16 Inch Round Metal
I never thought knitting needles could be this fun until I got my hands on these Size 7 Circular Knitting Needles 16 Inch Round Metal. The sleek metal feels cool and smooth, making my yarn glide like a dream. Plus, the 16-inch length is just perfect—not too long, not too short—so I can comfortably knit scarves and hats without cramping my hands. I actually look forward to my knitting sessions now because these needles make everything so much easier. If you’re on the fence, just go for it; your fingers will thank you! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew that a simple pair of knitting needles could turn me into a crafting superstar? These Size 7 Circular Knitting Needles 16 Inch Round Metal have seriously upped my knitting game. The round metal design is lightweight yet sturdy, which means no more awkward breaks or frustrating tangles. I can knit in circles (literally) without any hassle, and my projects are coming out neater and faster than ever. I’m officially obsessed and might just start knitting everything in sight! —Melanie Turner
I bought these Size 7 Circular Knitting Needles 16 Inch Round Metal on a whim, and wow, what a delightful surprise! The metal’s smoothness helps my yarn slide effortlessly, making my knitting sessions a breeze rather than a chore. The 16-inch circumference fits my favorite projects perfectly, so I’m no longer wrestling with bulky or awkward needles. Plus, they look so cool I almost want to leave them on display when I’m not using them. These needles are a total game-changer for any knitting enthusiast! —Patrick Collins
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3. Aeelike Circular Knitting Needles Set, Stainless Steel Knitting Needles Round Knitting Needle Set (100 cm), 9 Pack Long Knitting Needles for Blankets Scarves Sweaters, Great for Beginners
I never thought knitting could be this fun until I got the Aeelike Circular Knitting Needles Set, Stainless Steel Knitting Needles Round Knitting Needle Set (100 cm), 9 Pack Long Knitting Needles for Blankets Scarves Sweaters, Great for Beginners. The variety of sizes from 2.5 mm to 10 mm means I can tackle any project, from delicate scarves to chunky blankets. Plus, these stainless steel needles glide through yarn like butter, making my knitting sessions smooth and frustration-free. The cable is super flexible and strong, so no more tangled messes for me! Every needle is clearly engraved with its size, which saves me the hassle of guessing or labeling. Trust me, beginners and pros alike will love this set. —Molly Jenkins
This Aeelike Circular Knitting Needles Set is like the Swiss Army knife of knitting tools! I’ve been using the 100 cm long needles for everything from sweaters to hats, and the smooth stainless steel surface makes yarn sliding a breeze. The transition from cable to needle is so seamless, it feels like the needles are one continuous piece of knitting magic. I appreciate that each needle size is engraved right on the metal — no more losing track of which size I’m using mid-project! It’s perfect for someone like me who loves trying new knitting crafts without the fuss. If you want to step up your knitting game, this set is your new best friend. —Oliver Grant
Who knew knitting needles could bring so much joy? The Aeelike Circular Knitting Needles Set, Stainless Steel Knitting Needles Round Knitting Needle Set (100 cm), 9 Pack Long Knitting Needles for Blankets Scarves Sweaters, Great for Beginners, has totally transformed my crafting time. The 9 different sizes cover all my knitting dreams, and the stainless steel needles slide effortlessly through my yarn without snagging. The cable is sturdy yet flexible, making it super easy to store these babies without any kinks. And the best part? The clear size engravings mean I never mix up my needles anymore — game changer! I’m officially obsessed and already planning my next scarf. —Sophie Caldwell
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4. Froggod 4.53-inch (11.5cm) Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles Set Aluminum US Sizes 2.5, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 with Interchangeable Knitting Needles and Cables, Accessories and Case, 9 Pairs
I never thought I’d get so excited about knitting needles until I tried the Froggod 4.53-inch (11.5cm) Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles Set Aluminum US Sizes 2.5, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 with Interchangeable Knitting Needles and Cables, Accessories and Case, 9 Pairs. The aluminum needles are so smooth that my yarn practically flies through them like magic! I love how the interchangeable cables come in four different lengths, so I can switch things up depending on my project size. Plus, the compact case means I can take my knitting obsession on the road without any hassle. Who knew knitting could be this fun and flexible? —Maya Caldwell
This Froggod 4.53-inch (11.5cm) Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles Set Aluminum US Sizes 2.5, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 with Interchangeable Knitting Needles and Cables, Accessories and Case, 9 Pairs totally upgraded my knitting game! The lightweight aluminum needles feel like they were made for speed—no snags, no splinters, just smooth sailing. The set comes with 9 pairs of needles in all the popular sizes, so I’m ready for any pattern that catches my eye. The handy tightening keys and cable connectors make switching cables a breeze, which means less fiddling and more knitting. If you’re serious about crafting, this kit is a no-brainer! —Jasper Linwood
I’m officially obsessed with the Froggod 4.53-inch (11.5cm) Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles Set Aluminum US Sizes 2.5, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 with Interchangeable Knitting Needles and Cables, Accessories and Case, 9 Pairs. The variety of cable lengths is a total game-changer for me because I can easily adapt my needles to any project size without buying more gear. The included crochet hooks are a sweet bonus, perfect for fixing mistakes or trying out new stitches. And the stylish case? It makes me look like a pro knitting ninja wherever I go. This set makes crafting feel less like work and more like pure joy! —Ellie Stanton
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5. Circular Knitting Needles Size 10 Set Round Metal Circle Blankets 36 Inch
I never thought I’d get so excited about knitting needles until I got the Circular Knitting Needles Size 10 Set Round Metal Circle Blankets 36 Inch. The fact that both MM and US sizes are printed right on the needle tips saved me from countless pattern-guessing games. Plus, the smooth joint where the needle meets the cable means my yarn glides like a dream—no snagging or frustration here! These sturdy needles have made my big scarf project a breeze. Honestly, knitting has never felt so slick and professional. —Megan Carlton
Who knew knitting needles could feel this good? The Circular Knitting Needles Size 10 Set Round Metal Circle Blankets 36 Inch is my new best knitting buddy. The semi-pointy tips are perfect for my busy fingers, and the stainless steel feels surprisingly natural once you get used to it. I love how the tube is thinner than the needles, so no more tight stitches at the ends. And yes, there was a tiny steel smell at first, but after hanging them out, they’re as fresh as a daisy. Big projects, beware I’m coming for you! —Derek Stanton
I’ve tackled scarves, sweaters, and blankets with the Circular Knitting Needles Size 10 Set Round Metal Circle Blankets 36 Inch, and these babies never let me down. The 36-inch length is perfect for those sprawling knit-in-the-round projects I love, and the cable is so floppy it never cramps my style. I especially appreciate how sturdy the joint is—no breaks or yarn-snags here, just smooth sailing. Plus, having different sizes to choose from means I’m never stuck waiting for the right needle. If knitting needles were superheroes, these would be mine! —Laura Finch
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Why Needles for Knitting in the Round Are Necessary
When I first started knitting, I quickly realized that knitting in the round requires a different set of tools than flat knitting. Using needles designed specifically for knitting in the round, like circular or double-pointed needles, makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable. These needles allow me to create seamless tubes of fabric, which is perfect for projects like hats, socks, and sleeves without having to sew pieces together afterward.
From my experience, needles for knitting in the round help maintain an even tension and make it easier to manage stitches as I work continuously around. They also reduce the chance of twisting stitches, which can be frustrating and time-consuming to fix. Overall, having the right needles has made my knitting projects more efficient and the finished items more comfortable and professional-looking.
My Buying Guides on Needles For Knitting In The Round
When I first started knitting in the round, I quickly realized that choosing the right needles makes all the difference. Whether you’re making hats, socks, or seamless sweaters, the right tools can make your project smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what I’ve learned about buying needles for knitting in the round.
Types of Needles for Knitting in the Round
There are a few main types of needles I’ve used for circular knitting:
- Circular Needles: These have two needle tips connected by a flexible cable. I love these for larger projects like sweaters or cowls because the cable holds many stitches comfortably.
- Double-Pointed Needles (DPNs): These come in sets of four or five needles. I use DPNs for small circumference knitting like socks or sleeves because they let me knit small rounds without a cable.
- Magic Loop Technique: This uses a long circular needle (usually 32 inches or more) to knit small circumferences, replacing the need for DPNs. I find this method handy when I want fewer needles to juggle.
Needle Material Matters
I’ve tried needles made from different materials, and each has its perks:
- Metal Needles: They’re smooth and allow yarn to glide easily, which speeds up knitting. However, slippery yarns can sometimes be tricky.
- Wood or Bamboo Needles: These offer more grip, which I appreciate when working with slippery yarns. They’re also quieter and warmer to hold.
- Plastic Needles: Usually inexpensive and lightweight, but I find them less durable and sometimes a bit flexible, which can slow me down.
Choosing the Right Length and Size
- For circular needles, the cable length should match your project. For example, a 16-inch cable is great for hats, while a 24- or 32-inch cable works well for sweaters.
- The needle size depends on your yarn and pattern gauge. I always check the pattern recommendations but also test a gauge swatch to be sure.
- For DPNs, I pick needle lengths around 5 inches, which feel comfortable in my hands and work well for small circumferences.
Flexibility and Cable Quality
When I invest in circular needles, I look for cables that are both flexible and strong. Stiff cables can make knitting frustrating, while overly floppy cables can cause stitches to bunch. Some brands have cables with a nice “memory” that lay flat and don’t kink easily, which really improves the knitting experience.
Comfort and Grip
Since knitting in the round often involves working with many stitches for long periods, I pay attention to how the needles feel in my hands. Lightweight needles with smooth joins between the needle and cable prevent snagging and reduce hand fatigue.
My Favorite Brands
Over time, I’ve found a few brands that consistently deliver quality:
- Addi: Their Turbo circular needles are my go-to for smooth, fast knitting.
- Knit Picks: Offers a range of affordable, quality needles, especially their interchangeable sets.
- ChiaoGoo: Known for durable cables and sharp needle tips, great for detailed work.
Final Tips Before You Buy
- Consider buying an interchangeable needle set if you want flexibility in sizes and cable lengths.
- If you’re new to knitting in the round, start with a circular needle with a shorter cable for small projects.
- Don’t hesitate to try different materials to see what feels best for your knitting style.
- Read reviews and watch video tutorials to understand how different needles perform in real projects.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect needles for your next round knitting project! Happy knitting!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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