There are different types of knitting needles available in a great variety of materials and sizes. The size of the needle depends on the diameter.
The picture here shows a few examples:
- Single-pointed, extra-long wooden needles, ideal for jackets and pullovers when using the English method. The wood absorbs humidity from hands and is good for keeping slippery yarns in place.
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Plastic needles are light-weight and rather cheap.
- Bamboo needles are also light weight and smooth.
- Acrylic needles have a slippery surface and are a bit stronger than the plastic ones.
- Metal needles are good for rougher yarns. They are usually more expensive but last a lifetime.
- Double-pointed plastic and metal needles are used to knit circularly, usually socks, gloves and beanies.
- Round needles are also used to knit in the round. A flexible plastic cable connects two needle points. The cables are available in different lengths (usually 40, 60, 80, 120 or more cm).
- Stitch holders are often used to hold a number of stitches that later on will be worked in a special way.
