How to Use Circular Knitting Needles: A Beginner’s Guide to Knitting in the Round and Flat

Understanding Circular Knitting Needles

Circular knitting needles might look intimidating, but they’re incredibly versatile! They consist of two needle tips connected by a flexible cable. This design allows you to knit in the round (creating seamless tubes) and also to knit flat pieces much easier than with straight needles, especially for large projects.

Why Choose Circular Needles?

Versatility: Knit both in the round and flat.
Comfort: The weight of the project rests on the cable, not your wrists.
Large Projects: Great for blankets and large sweaters because they can hold a large number of stitches.

Knitting in the Round with Circular Needles

Knitting in the round creates a seamless tube of fabric. This is ideal for socks, hats, and sweaters without side seams.

Step-by-Step Guide to Knitting in the Round

Cast On: Cast on the required number of stitches as per your pattern.
Join in the Round: This is a crucial step. Ensure your stitches aren’t twisted before joining. Place the last stitch you cast on next to the first stitch on your needle.
Knit the First Round: Knit the first stitch from the back needle onto the front needle. Continue knitting around, always working from the back needle.
Place a Stitch Marker: Place a stitch marker at the beginning of each round to keep track of your progress. Move the marker as you come to it on each round.
Continue Knitting: Keep knitting in the round, following your pattern. There’s no need to turn your work. You’re creating a spiral!

Magic Loop vs. Short Circulars

For smaller circumference projects (like socks or sleeves), you have two options:

Magic Loop: Uses one long circular needle. You pull the cable out in two loops to effectively shorten the working length.
Short Circulars: These are circular needles with very short tips and cables, designed for small circumference knitting.

Experiment to see which method you prefer!

Knitting Flat with Circular Needles

Yes, you can absolutely knit flat with circular needles! It’s just like using straight needles, but with the added benefit of the flexible cable.

How to Knit Flat

Cast On: Cast on the required number of stitches.
Knit the First Row: Knit across all the stitches.
Turn Your Work: Just like with straight needles, turn your work at the end of each row.
Knit or Purl: Follow your pattern. For stockinette stitch, you’ll alternate knit and purl rows.

Why Use Circulars for Flat Projects?

Comfort: Holds a large number of stitches without straining your wrists.
Space Saving: The cable allows the project to rest comfortably without taking up as much space as straight needles.

Choosing the Right Circular Needles

Selecting the correct needle size and cable length is essential for comfortable and successful knitting.

Needle Size

The needle size depends on your yarn and pattern. Always check your pattern for the recommended needle size. A general rule is to use the smallest needle size that gives you the correct gauge.

Cable Length

Cable length is crucial. For knitting in the round, choose a cable length that is shorter than the circumference of your project. For knitting flat, the cable length doesn’t matter as much, but a longer cable can be helpful for larger projects.

Types of Circular Needles

Fixed Circular Needles: The needle tips are permanently attached to the cable.
Interchangeable Circular Needles: You can detach the needle tips and switch them out for different sizes. These are a great investment if you knit frequently and with different yarn weights.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Twisted Stitches

Problem: Your stitches are twisted when joining in the round.

Solution: Carefully check your stitches before joining. Make sure they are all facing the same direction.

Laddering

Problem: Gaps appear where the round begins when using magic loop.

Solution: Gently tug on the first few stitches of each round to tighten them.

Needle Size Too Small/Large

Problem: Your gauge isn’t matching the pattern.

Solution: Change your needle size. If you have too many stitches per inch, go up a needle size. If you have too few stitches per inch, go down a needle size.

Advanced Techniques

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, explore these advanced techniques:

Knitting Cables

Circular needles are perfect for knitting cables, both in the round and flat.

Colorwork

Intarsia and stranded colorwork are easier to manage on circular needles, especially for large projects.

Seamless Garment Construction

Learn to knit sweaters and cardigans seamlessly from the top down or bottom up.

Conclusion

Circular knitting needles are a fantastic tool for knitters of all levels. Whether you’re knitting in the round or flat, they offer comfort, versatility, and the ability to tackle large projects with ease. Practice makes perfect, so grab your needles and yarn and start exploring the possibilities!