I only got into knitting proper as a young adult. But, after years of trial and error, I believe that I’ve honed in on the 10 things that every knitter out there should have in their toolkit. No matter their experience level.
1: A row counter
How many times have you put down your project and picked up again later on, only to forget which row of your pattern that you’re on?
If you’re more technically-inclined, then a good counter app is going to be one of your most-used items in your toolkit. This is going to be one of those ocassions where I strongly recommend going for a paid version of an app rather than the free one.
I use Counter Tally Count. It’s simple and allows for multiple counters at the same time.
2: yarn needles
With every knitting project, there’s going to be the inevitable tails to weave in. This is where a solid set of yarn needles is going to be a lifesaver. Go for ones that have a bent tip, as I find that those make the weaving in process a little easier.
3: sharp scissors
Find yourself a pair of scissors that’s going to cut through the thickest yarn that you normally with. I’d stick to the smaller side if you like to take your knitting with you when you’re out and about.
4: a full set of interchangeable needles
The choice of needles is always going to be a personal one. Having said that, if you’re going to stick to one kind of knitting needle for most of your projects, I’d strongly suggest going for a set of interchangeable needles.
Their key selling point is their flexibility. Not just in the literal sense, but also in terms of the number of project types that you can go for.
Because these things can get a little pricey, get a set of tips and cables to start out with and add more tip sizes and cable lengths as you go along. My personal favourite is the set from ChiaoGoo.
5: a project bag
If you like taking your knitting with you when you go out, then a project bag is a must!
Keep in mind that it doesn’t need to be specifically geared towards knitting projects. But as long as it can keep everything contained and protect its contents from the elements, then it will do just fine.
6: stitch markers
My stitch markers are one of the most used items in my toolkit. Apart from marking the boundaries between project sections, they’re also exceptionally useful for keeping track of stitch and row counts. Very helpful when working on larger projects.
My favourites for everyday use are simple closed ring stitch markers and safety pin style stitch markers.
7: tape measure
A necessity for checking the size of your project, especially if the pattern uses lengths as project milestones.
8: a travel pill organiser
I use a travel pill organiser to keep all of my smaller knitting notions in the same place. I got mine on Amazon (link).
9: a needle roll/organiser
If your set of interchangeable needles doesn’t come with its own case, then you’re going to want to get yourself a knitting needle roll to keep things organised.
I used the one from JesabelleB, and it has held up well for several years.
10: yarn
What would any knitting toolkit be without yarn?
My advice here is to get just a little more yarn than what the pattern recommends. This is to account for yarn tails, since some patterns don’t specify whether the amount of yarn required for the project includes yarn tails or not.
Happy Knitting!
Anna