Since I've been knitting for a fair number of years, I have a pretty decent needle stash. I've got my straights, DPNs, and circulars, all in a range that allows me to knit lace weight to bulky projects. But, like many of you, I'm sure, my needle stash is a jumble of bamboo, wood, nickel, and, yes, even aluminum (eeks!). Over the last couple of months, I've been thinking a lot about my needle stash, wanting to improve its quality -- since my yarn stash has graduated to more natural fibers, why not upgrade my tools, too, right?
So, during our trip to Boston, I treated myself to a pair of Addi Turbo needles and then later got a pair of Red Lace at my LYS. I'm starting to feel like a grown-up. While I'd love to have the money to invest in all Signature and Addi Turbo needles, I don't but still want to knit more regularly with good quality needles -- hence my new addition.
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| Knit Picks Interchangeable Set, US4 - US11 |
After finishing my Wholehearted Shawl and spending countless hours working on my baby design, I needed to cast on a vanilla project. I got out my cake of Cascade 220, picked up my new US9 circulars, and started knitting my first Baktus. Great pattern, horrible gauge. I frogged it after about 10 inches. I then switched to US8. Ugh, I frogged it again, but am now happily knitting this relaxing pattern on US7s.
So, yes, size matters, and I know I'm going to enjoy both my Baktus and my new needle stash.
I know not everyone will agree with me, but I love my set of knit picks interchangeables. I have the wood set though because I find the metal ones too slippery. Great idea to cast on a vanilla project, I love the color!
ReplyDeleteI have one set of Harmony in US 6 and US9 and love them but I really love the sleekness of the nickel so I indulged!
DeleteI heard from someone that the wooden ones break easily do you find this true or were they just knitting too heavily maybe? That's the only reason I've been hesitant to buy the set.
DeleteI love my Harmony needles and I got them at a similar sale about 4 years ago. They stand behind their product and will send replacement parts if your needle separates from the cable or if the wooden needle has a split. They also replaced one of my cables when it came away from the metal joint. Just email and tell them what your problem is and they ship a replacement no questions asked!
ReplyDeleteI made a Bactus but never liked the yarn so I don't wear it much. I must say you have me inspired by your choice of yarn and pattern. First I need to finish Sakina and Wholehearted!
I know what you mean ... the yarn makes such a difference with this pattern.
DeleteYay to interchangeables. I want to get some, too, but I haven't decided which set.
ReplyDeleteBoth the Harmony wood and the Nickel are wonderful -- nickel is definitely sleeker so keep that in mind.
DeleteYay for more needles. I have the harmony wood ones and love them, although I tried the nickel ones like you have and I think I like them better! But to each his own. Such a pretty color, can't wait to see the finished project.
ReplyDeleteAhh I'm drooling over the needle set . . . and the color of your soon-to-be Baktus. <3
ReplyDeleteooooOooOoh.
ReplyDeleteLucky you! I have been eyeing knitpicks' sets (I have wanted harmonies for ages now) but I already have 2 sets of interchangeables (boye's and takumis) and I would feel guilty if I bought another.
Also yummy color! Does the Batkus only take one ball?
Hmmm, three sets would probably be over-the-top! LOL. Yes, the Batkus takes only one ball/skein depending, of course, how big you want it to be. The beauty of this pattern is that you start to decrease once you're about 1/2 way through your skein.
DeleteHow are you liking the Knit Picks needles? I've been writing an interchangeable knitting needle guide and I would love to hear how you like them.
ReplyDeleteNeedles - just more goodies to Stash! ! !
ReplyDeleteChiaoGoo Red Lace seem have become my needles of choice lately.
Great pointy tips and the cable isn't bad either.
hugs
I have that same interchangeable set- it really is wonderful. Changing needles mid-project (like for ribbing) is so much easier!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to hear what you think about your interchangeables! I have been wanting to get some too.
ReplyDeleteha! caught me, I have a mixed collection of needles too! Love to hear how you're progressing with your interchangables, I've been uncertain whether to invest in these or not. Still on the fence, but I'd love to hear your feedback!
ReplyDeleteI have to say the good needles are worth the investment. That's all I buy now - but then, given how much I knit, it's a very small price to pay.
ReplyDeleteI received the harmony-set for my birthday. I really like the little bag with everything in place. It's so easy to swatch and go a size up or down with just this bag on the table and not having to go through a drawer full of odds and ends. :)
ReplyDeleteAh, just confessed I'm a little chaotic, didn't I? :D
That is going to be one gorgeous Baktus! And Knitpicks is having a needle sale? Wow, those are so rare! I'm off to go check it out...
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you treated yourself! That is going to be a beautiful Baktus!
ReplyDeleteGood for you on treatin' yourself.
ReplyDeleteI love my Addi needles but love the Knit Pick ones just as much!
ReplyDelete