I am a die hard Chiaogoo fan. They made me go from saying I don't know if I like knitting to knitting every day. They are perfect for me and the cable is phenomenal :D

Circular metal needles are my "go to" needles, except for double points. I prefer wooden needles for dpn's.

@meltheredcap6307

3 жыл бұрын

Agreed - metal DPNs have a nasty tendency to go "zhoop!" out of all the stitches and bounce away across the floor. XD

@katedavy6272

2 жыл бұрын

Same for me, especially dpns for sox. I occasionally sand and rub with waxed paper all my sock needles to improve the drag problem.

The BEST video I”ve seen yet, on how to choose between wood and metal knitting needles. Thank you so much. You helped me decide. 🤗

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thank you so much.

You are a heaven sent !!! Have a yarn that just split so bad I was just about to trash it I watched this video and all I need was change my needle! I’m so Happy

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I am so glad I helped!

I was looking into upgrading my bamboo needles and saw this video. Hope you’ll be able to get some professional advice for your hand pain. I had a similar sounding problem and it turned out to be a repetitive stress injury caused by me overextending my double jointed thumbs. Physical therapy helped a lot and let me learn how to not aggravate it. I will be watching more of your videos!

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I actually have an MRI scheduled for this Friday and will hopefully be getting some answers.

I hope you’re feeling great and are pain free. You’re a marvelous teacher.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!

Great video and great advice. Thank you 😊 I hope you're feeling better now 😊

This explains a lot. I am an extremely tight knitter and love the really long needles. The dp's I have are wood and I had a horrible time because the yarn almost refused to move. I may need to rebisit dpn's with metal. I am sorry to hear your hand is acting up. That is not a good feeling. I will pray that you will be able to see the doctor soon and that the issue is easily remedied. I am having a cornea transplant on Nov 2 and am praying my vision will return to my "normal". Take care of yourself, you are a wealth of information and are a joy to watch. Your videos make knitting and leatning about knitting fun!

I’m glad you’re considering the cortisone shot. One should not be an issue, (they can be corrosive), but one will help determine if the pain is in the carpal tunnel.

Another excellent video giving me just the information I needed (and more)! The explanations are detailed, yet easy to understand. You are simply suberbly skilled - and equally funny. Love your humour!

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

I am so glad to hear you like my videos. I'm pretty predictable in supplying the (and more) lol!

Again thanks for all your wonderful and informative vids. Good luck with your hand. I am fairly new knitter(2 yrs), started with bamboo circulars, bamboo interchangeable, went to wood interchangeable, then exotic woods, then metal tip wood and Karbonz interchangeable and I am now working on HiyaHiya lace tips in both short and long sizes. I am very happy with the HiyaHiya's and you so right about stitches sliding off if you don't pay attention. Again thanks for all your wonderful vids. Take care!

Wow, this was super helpful! I'm brand new to knitting and started with what I could find at the dollar store (plastic needles, cheap-o yarn). What brought me here is the fact that within weeks I already snapped one needle and see a crack forming in the other! But even with the cheap knitting needles I had developed preferences without realizing it, and this video does an amazing job of articulating what you don't even know what to ask for. Evidently I'm a 'tight knitter' and now when I go out looking for replacement needles I'll be shopping for stainless steel. Thanks!

Thank you for your video. I am really enjoying watching you.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

Hon, I’m so sorry to hear this. I have a problem with my thumb joint on my right hand but I’m a leftie, so I’m thankful for that. The joint needs to be replaced, but I’ve been putting it off. I will keep you in my prayers. Thank you for this video. Very helpful.

As usual Barbara, Extremely informative, insightful and inspiring!! Thank You Ma'am!! I swear I have so many Chiaogoo different sizes both bamboo and stainless. I also have Knitters Pride which I've found very nice, effective but my go to are the Chiaogoo tips and I am finding myself constantly ordering double sets just so I'm never without backups if that makes sense 😂... I'm constantly starting something new in other words...piles of WIPS. Working right now on fingering weight, 2 strands together top I'm designing... one strand does have tinsel running through it. Going to be for the Holidays. And another Sweater on needles in another project bag that is a yarn from a big box store, Bernat Plentiful, Gorgeous!! Knits up Beautifully!! Will be amazing when I'm done with it.. rotating back and forth between the two. I'm always looking for challenges as I said before!! And love to crochet too but it doesn't challenge me enough. Once I knitting found me there was NO going back 🥰... I hope your hands are better soon, my left hand feels like that too. I usually put heat on it for just a minimal amount of relief. I 🙏 you get some relief soon though.. Be Well Hun & Be Safe 😷🆙️

Love this! My very first needles were metal straight needles. Still have a pair for some reason. I love the addi needles for socks but found I confused the needles (I do 2 socks on 2 circular needles) so I started adding in wooden needles. Then along came interchangeable and my first set was Denise brand. Still have them and still use them, but Knit picks has been my go to. I have a wooden set and an acrylic set. Like them both for different reasons. I also still have my original metal dpns. I never use them, but we have history... Love watching your videos!

Hi Barbara, I truly hope your problem with your hand gets resolved ASAP! Sending you best wishes and positive thoughts for a speedy recovery. I love your "new" podcast format so please don't worry about knitting in one. Your podcasts are filled with so much thought-provoking information that I stop knitting just to listen to what you have to say. Regarding needle choice: I love long, sharp tips. Love Chiaogoo interchangeable set in metal and bamboo because the tips feel comfortable in my hands and the cords don't twist. But I also love Addi Rockets and Knitter's Pride polished wood tips. My needle choice depends on what I'm knitting and the yarn (as you thoroughly covered in this podcast). Thanks for this podcast. Take care now.

Congratulations on reaching 500 subscribers. I've liked everything you've been doing so far.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!

You are an excellent teacher! Thank you!

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Wow, thank you!

When I first started knitting I got the Chiaogoo needles everyone recommended, and I do like them for lace work. But since I tend to skoot up my yarn with my index finger, it gets really sore! So I prefer the less pointy Addi turbo rockets. Nice that we have such a wide variety to choose from! Hope you find medical answers soon, and get pain relief! ❤️🙏

@ljknh

3 жыл бұрын

I have the same problem with my index finder. I'm a new knitter and would love to break that habit. Right now I have a callous on my finger tip.

Thank you. Your explanation is incredibly informative.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

Barbara, I hope you are able to get help for your hand and arm really soon. Take care of yourself. We need you to keep educating us about all the myriad aspects of knitting.

Another excellent video. Good information for those who don't know or aren't sure. The right tool for the job 😊 I use metal needles. Knitter's Pride Nova Platina circular, then recently a set of the Cubics circular (because the other's got packed away in storage and I haven't been able to locate them yet) and most recently I bought a set of Chiao Goo Red Lace. All are interchangeable. The Knitter's Pride set seems to be just a little bit slicker than the Chiao Goo, so I use whichever based on what type of yarn I'm using. I'm not a tight knitter, but I just like the way the yarn moves along on metal. Take care of your hands and I hope you get relief soon!

I have loads of "try and see" needles, but I always use my Chiagoo stainless needles as I am a tight knitter and definately get the best results from those. I did a gauge swatch on 3.5 mm with thin, slippery yarn for my next project and my tension was so irregular, especially the purl rows (I am a thrower) so I tried my wooden KnitPicks, and hey presto, it all looks good now. So thanks for all the very useful information. Sorry to hear about your joint problem, it is probably something that all knitters dread. I hope the doctor can find an easy solution

Barbara, you are fabulous! Thank you for everything

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Awww, thank you!

Thanks for this helpful video! Lots of good information. And I'm nodding my head in sympathy regarding your hand issue. I have OA but was recently diagnosed with psoriatric arthritis - both my hands have been hit hard. And as you know, besides things like knitting, adjusting a camera lens or playing arpeggios on a guitar or piano - we also use our hands for more mundane stuff like twisting a door nob or signing our name. I really hope you get your issue sorted and treated. You're smart to give yourself some resting time and a break from intense knitting! Take care!

Interesting information. I was a very tight knitter and would have pain in my hands. I bought bamboo circulars which forced me to loosen my gauge and now my joints don't swell as bad. I hope you get the desired diagnosis on your hand!

@MW-iu1ed

3 жыл бұрын

Very interesting. It just hit me that recently I was able to afford Chia Goo needles (always used Tulip bamboo before) and I am wondering if that is why I am developing a pain in my left thumb area much like Barbara is explaining. I was thinking that it’s because I am doing more consistent and constant knitting to meet Xmas gift deadline. I enjoy the Chia and want to use since I spent $$ on them. Looks like I will go back to using my bamboo Tulips and see if the pain point goes away. I won’t be happy if that’s the case it took me so long to save up for Chia

Apologies for the multiple posts...I forgot to add 10” plastic Pony, US 8 for teaching my children how to knit.

As a new knitter this has been one of the most informative and well presented tutorials that I have found. Thank you! Hope your hand is feeling better 🙂

@WatchBarbaraKnit

Жыл бұрын

I am so glad the video was helpful to you. My hand is better!

Hi Barbara! I started my knitting journey many yrs ago & used either straight or metal needles. They belonged to my Grammy who taught me to knit. I then bot KnitPicks wooden needles & used them for yrs. Then ordered their metal needles & fell in luv w them. Then I got the Royale interchangeable set as a gift & they have a metal tip w polished wood body. These were great! I have a few karbonz needles & really liked those as well. Finally, I bot Hiya Hiya interchangeable needle kits! I luv luv these! I have the sock kit & the deluxe kit! Very pointy needles & my stitches slide nicely. I guess my tension is "normal" as I dont knit either too loose or too tight. I wonder about the Chioa goos but I have enuff needles for now! Sorry ur thumb is bothering u Barbara. I had carpal tunnel surgery a few years ago on my rt wrist & I havent had a prob since. Im now getting the "same" numbness & pain in my lf hand for quite a while now. Looks like carpal surgery is in my future again! I hope u can avoid surgery but sometimes its the only option, IMHO, that eventually works. I hope u get it fixed soon. Pain is no joke, esp. when its interferring w ur hobby/job/livlihood! Great video! Cant wait for the nxt one! Stay healthy & safe!

Very sad your hand hurts. But I love you for your brain --- Top 5 picks, hints and tips, your attitude on learning, and lessons like this one. I thank you!

This was very helpful. Sorry to hear about your pain and I hope that things have improved one year hence. I just found your channel and watching video is all different orders. 🤭

Barbara, you are a saint. Material affecting gauge isn't something I had considered before, but explains a few problems I've had.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

Learn something new every day!

Barbara, I hope your thumb issue gets resolved soon!💐🙏💐🙏💐 Whenever I have doctors appointments, for my degenerative disc disorder, I remind myself that I am one day closer to recovery (this is my mantra since I tend to be a pessimist by nature). Several months unable to knit due to nonfunctioning arm was torturous but was an opportunity to do other things. Also, I love your current content and how you present the information and especially the beautiful eye candy on your dress form. Please continue.

Sounds like DeQuervain’s! Hope you feel better soon, Barbara!❤️

That helps a lot. I’ve been trying to knit dish clothes with cotton yarn and have trouble keeping the yarn on the needles and a friend said you might try wood and I wondered why so after struggling more I decided to look it up and you had a very good answer so now I’m gonna look for some wood needles. ❤

@WatchBarbaraKnit

Жыл бұрын

Yay, You have fun!

I have a diverse collection of needles and I found that I prefer the metal with sharp points. This was a great video, very informative. Wishing you all the best with your hand.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

I actually snapped some bamboo needles not too long ago. Was told they were best for beginners but this was way more informative than the advice I was given 💛💛

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad I could help!

I wish you a quick recovery from your hand pain

Sorry to hear about your thumb pain. Hope you get in to see the Dr soon so that hopefully you can begin to heal. I love the topic of different needles. When I started knitting, I pretty much went with Chiago, now I have many different types of needles in my "stash". I usually do a small swatch with different types of needles at the beginning of a project just to see which needle I like better with the yarn, even if "guage" doesn't matter much (not fitted items). Keep up the wonderful content. Much love from the Flock Around the Table gal......Sue

I learned to knit with no-name aluminium needles. I never imagined there being any other needle materials or that there is difference in the feel and quality. When I picked up knitting again after a long hiatus, I tried different materials and I was absolutely shocked to see the difference a needle can make. My regular go-to is KnitPro Zing and I will probably get a set of wooden needles as well as more slicker metal ones as I find that my gauage is wildly different depending on the yarn, type and size of project and how much purling there is (my purling is waaay looser than my knit stitch).

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I love me some Zings and totally agree - the difference the needle can make in gauge is wacky.,

Thank you, you put really nice everything to know in one place!❤

@WatchBarbaraKnit

Жыл бұрын

You’re welcome 😊

When I first started, I bought aluminum or anything cheap. I fought my yarn and needles ALOT, since I was a tight knitter (and crocheted). After several years, I treated myself to a set of interchangeable Hiya Hiyas. They were nice, but I had a problem with the joins. Now, after several more years, I’ve treated myself to ChaioGoo Lace circulars, which I LOVE. I love the pointy tips, the needle length, the cable doesn’t loop around itself ... love everything. I recently bought the ChaioGoo 5” interchangeables. My Hiya Hiyas are 4”. Interesting how that extra inch makes my knitting more enjoyable, and I can knit longer. For socks, I do use bamboo, a 9” circular, because I need that grippiness. Thanks for this informative video. Hope you’re able to get in sooner than December to see about your thumb, and are able to get some relief.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Not fighting with your tools makes everything so much more pleasurable.

Thank you Barbara for the needle explanations. I like to knit with bamboo needles because they feel neutral, neither hot nor cold to the hands, and they don’t hurt like when I’ve used metal needles. Funny, I noticed some linen yarn was sticking to the bamboo needles and thought, just knit looser than usual . The linen still behaved sticky and I didn’t like the sad fabric that was developing. I will give the metal needles a try for this linen shawl. If it doesn’t work out, I’m gonna have to be okay to let the yarn go. Huh, I just remembered that the square metal needles felt good and I liked the consistency in tension. You gave me a lot to consider! Thanks

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I've met plenty of knitters in the same boat as you - metal hurts their hands. I think trying a different needle before completely giving up on the yarn is a great idea.

My absolute favorite needles are the Lykke interchangeables. And I hope that your pain goes away soon!

I love the wood gingers you are showing, also I have 2 1/2 inch 16s for hats.I also love metal..one problem I ran into is light..I have a light in my front room that glares off metal.I can use metal in my kitchen..just something more to think about.Bamboo can be sanded with a nail buffer..thx Barb..good luck with the hand.I have ra so I sympathize. 🖖🧶❣👍😊

Good information. As a new knitter I’m liking the polished birch best so far. I have purchased some metal circulars for knitting socks but haven’t attempted that yet. Lots of factors to consider and I appreciate the information. Hope you find out what’s wrong and get your pain corrected soon!!

@katedavy6272

2 жыл бұрын

Birch is lovely to use. I still occasionally use fine sand paper n waxed paper to keep them on top shape

O and by the way 👋 Barbara “ thank you for sharing your videos with me

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

I started out knitting with Susan Bates plastic! lol Now I go bamboo needles all the way......Go new knitters! And sorry your hand hurts that stinks...lots of hugs, I hope you find some relief.....

Great suggestions. I have needles for different types of projects and don't often stop to think why I grab one over another. I knit a lot of "softies" in a tight gauge so use DPN carbon fiber as I can put significant torque on the needles and have snapped wood and bamboo. They also have more grip than metal but not as much as wood which is good when you are knitting 12 stitches in the round. I have learned that I hate 9" circulars. The 4" and shorter needles are too hard to hold so I prefer to use 2 circular needles. The aluminum needles are on my Christmas list, especially in DPNs. They are bright and maybe easier to see when I drop them. My husband gets exasperated I am digging in the recliner for my glorified toothpick (size 0 DPN).

Excellent video! I like wooden, 5” interchangeable needles. I’m a big fan of Knitter’s Pride Gingers and Dreams. However, I love my metal Zings and ChiaoGoos too 🤗

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

So many needles! So little time. LOL

Great topic....thank you!

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Glad you liked it!

This is so helpful, thank you!

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad!

I have been knitting for over 50 years and I found this video to be very informative. I am a fairly loose knitter, and I prefer wood or bamboo needles. My very faves are the square wooden needles that my son, whose hobby is woodworking, makes for me. He makes DPs and straight needles, and for circular needles always give me wood or bamboo.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad!

Sorry about ur hand pain that sucks big time. I wanna thank you for your videos I just found you. But you made me more confident to keep knitting even when I make mistakes when I would normally just give up. I prefer metal and longer ones.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad you're going to keep on knitting!

So sorry to hear about your pain. I was able to get my pain (not the same kind as yours) fixed with chiropractic and hand exercises; maybe in the interim of waiting for the hand doctor you could check into that?? I started with the long aluminum needles and it was frustrating so that's why I never knitted anything, so I crocheted when I was younger. 15 years ago relearning I liked bamboo. Now, I mostly knit with Chiagoo and HiyaHiya interchangeable metal needles. For the larger yarns I use my Tulip bamboo interchangeables or Boye aluminum although I don't like its cords.

Your video was very informative and I enjoyed it. I am a continental knitter and generally use bamboo circular needles as I knit loosely. Sometimes I use metal circular ones for knitting hats. I'm interested in interchangeable needles and would like to give them a try. Hope your hand gets better soon.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!

my fav needles are metal circulars, with a nice point , it took me a while to know what suits me (i have a bagg of needles i need to give to good will) , im allergic to nickel so i stick to stainless steel ones.

I learned to knit on bamboo needles and their stickiness prevents stitches from falling off needles. I began my knitting adventure as a tight knitter but eventually learned to relax my hands and knit differently in order to knit faster and longer with comfort. I have been knitting exclusively on addi turbo lace and rockets circulars for years (love them). Could you provide us your views on body posture while knitting. I think I stumbled on other sites about this but want to get your take on them. (Sorry if this topic was already covered, I have not finished watching all your prior content but am working on it🥰)

Thank you for your very informative video. I will be recommending it to some friends. Best wishes for your hand problem. I had something similar from playing the Ukulele, so I stopped playing and it eventually got well on its’ own. Repetitive stress injury I guess.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing this with your friends. That means more to me than you can imagine.

God bless you & give you special healing!! ❤

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 ай бұрын

Thank you!

Hi Barbara I had he same problem .Wha I did I bough a brace from amazon The have a support for the whole thumb all the way o the wrist . I rubbed some ailment hen put on tthe brace o sleep I remove it in the morning I really help me. I've tried countless braces finally found a perfect one that really help.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I do wear a brace and it helps. But I don't think I have the perfect one yet.

Very sorry to hear that your hand is hurting! I've had some experience with that though... I really recognise what you say and I have De Quervain. It is operable and it helps so much! I had surgery on both my hands and can knit for hours again! I sure hope it's not artritis!!❤️

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Fingers crossed (just not my thumb).

I’m so sorry to hear about your thumb... I have bern crocheting lots of baby blankets lately, and my right thumb is giving me grief...but nothing like yours.. I hope you get to see Dr. Hand SOON💜 Needles... My favorites are the beautiful Zings, and the ChaiGoo Red Lace. I do have some Knit Picks laminated wood needles, which are OK. I do like my Knit Pick straights....They are so pretty.... I literally hate bamboo needles. The grab is just awful... Have never used acrylic, but I understand that they, too, have a lot of grab. Nickle is too slick for me. Beginners just need to experiment a bit, to learn what works best for them. And, it is so true that the yarn can make a big difference... Thanks for another great, informative video.... I have bern enjoying your videos for a long time, now, and they are always fun. Love and prayers, from Cincinnati...

Great info! I am a super beginner and i only have bamboo needles and i thought i was doing something wrong with my tension and holding my yarn because i really have to scoot my stitches along and it was becoming agonizingly slow. So now that i know whats going on i may try some metal ones, after i figure out how not to simultaneously have my stitches dragging along and accidentally dumping them off as i go!

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

This was very imformative thank you very much . I hope you thumb gets better soon have you tried using a painkilling rub on it ?

So so sorry to hear of your hand pain. I had a ton of pain after knitting with wooden and using cotton for several projects in a row. I went to PT and they were so knowledgable and it worked!!! I stretch and massage and keep the tendons working well and now am fine! no operations needed. No injections ect. I just did what the PT folks told me to do. Threw my thumb brace away!! haha!

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

That is great to hear!

As usual, Barbara, you have great knowledge that you share with us! Needles points. Needle grab. One thing I consider is needle stab. My Chiaogoo needles can be nearly deadly at times and when that happens, I look for a blunter needle. That's not to say that all wooden needles fill that bill. I have found ways to commit finger suicide with a bamboo, but it's an important factor to consider in needle choice. Prym has a little plastic needle that has a bulb on the end which is a wonderful idea, but they catch as they come around the cord and back on to the needle and when a stitch needs a bit maneuvering like a knit front to back, the little bulb can be an antagonist. I hope someone invents something fast, slick, that doesn't necessarily want to give me the finger. I am always switching out even within a project, but that's not always the answer because gauge can be messed up. I haven't had that problem yet, but there's always a first time which will usually happen at the wrong time.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

That is a problem if you push with your finger. As always, knowing yourself is the best path to success.

I had similar pain in my left thumb. I had no idea it was arthritis. I did a shot of prednisone and the surgeon said it should last 6-12 months and if not to come back in. Well, it did help and I had hope but after about 45-60 days it was back to lots of pain. I had so many things I tried like creams and laser treatments even did acupuncture. Nothing worked. I went back to the surgeon and I had my thumb joint remade from the tendon in my arm. It was a simple surgery and after a few weeks I could button my jeans pretty easily. I wore a cast for 6 weeks then had about 4 weeks of PT learning how to use my new thumb joint. I am so glad I had it done and it should never be a problem in my lifetime. I recommend not putting off having it checked.

Tip....put sports tape on your hand . It puts pressure on the spot and in my experience does help with the pain.

When I was a new knitter, I tried bamboo, laminated__polished wood (Knit Picks needles are great)I have found that my fav needles are ChaiGoo Red Lacy, Knit Picks polished laminated needles, and Zings. I aviud bamboo… Tarn drags on bamboo..and other plain woods…like crazy. When yiu are new to knitting, it’s a very good idea to try different kinds of needles…and different kinds of yarn. After a while, you will begin preferring certain needles, and yarns. It’s all a matter of preference… My advice is to have fun trying different types of needles and yarns.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

Excellent advice!

Lace or brioche with complicated multi-stitch decreases: I want the pointiest, slipperiest metal needles I can get my hands on, with the longest taper. On the other hand, right now I'm doing a lot of plain stockinette interspersed with stranded colourwork, using an AMAZINGLY splitty yarn, and I'm using a very blunt wood tipped circular. In other words, yes to everything you said. XD Also, fingers crossed for a quick and easy resolution to your hand pain! I have autoimmune arthritis and it first showed up a lot like your thumb pain, soooo fingers crossed. I'm on a good treatment regime now and can knit pretty much as often as I want, but for a while there it was hard.

@meltheredcap6307

3 жыл бұрын

Wups, forgot to put in what brands etc I like! I prefer Addi lace fixed circulars for magic loop, Chiaogoo red lace interchangeables for lace work, and KnitPro fixed or interchangeable wooden needles for slippery stuff.

Thanks for the info. I use Brittany Birch needles and also Bamboo ChiaGoo circular needles. I find that my hands feel better, as I have arthritis in my hands.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

Жыл бұрын

Metal needles can be tough on some people.

So sorry to hear of your hand pain. Hopefully there will be a cancellation for you to get seen earlier. I've already had surgery on right hand and now having problem with left, hate when it stops me from knitting. I prefer ChiaoGoo circular, they are my favorites.

hope you get the hand problem sorted soon xx

Great video

@WatchBarbaraKnit

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the visit

I find I use different needles for different stitches. The Zing metals go beautifully for stocking stitch but I use bamboo for rib. As I'm knitting lamb jumpers it doesn't matter if I mix and match within a project. Are you using an elastic glove on your hand. I find it helps.

Barbara I've exactly the same problem . I saw one of tube knitter , advised to change from continental stttttyl to flicking like the English styl, I took her advice and straggle with kicking style it is a lot slower but it did help me. After I get better I get back to continental, I find metal needle hurts my hand specially a larger size. Bottom line I found Bamboo is the easiest for my hand its is more flexible and warm, I used Nail file needle to file down the tip for my need..

@WatchBarbaraKnit

11 ай бұрын

Yay for problem solving!

Hi Barbara oh no it is the worst thing that can happen to a crwator. I hope it's something easily solved. I purchased my granddaughter a set of straight wooden needles as she tried metal ones but her stitches kept falling off. They are just a cheap set from eBay. Twelve months later she is starting to use some metal needles and is managing with them most of the time, but goes back and forth between the two. I'm so proud of her she is eight years old, going on 30. She has promised me a scarf for Christmas. I have purchased her a set of wooden interchangeables for this Christmas. I just know she is going to be thrilled as she has been hinting. Sadly not seen as much of each other due to Covid but WhatsApp is fabulous. Take care and keep safe. xxJane

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

You should be proud and I am so glad we have all this tech to keep us in touch.

Needle material effects gauge! 🤯. Why did I not think of this!?!? This explains a lot for my project false starts this week.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

There are just so many moving variables, it is tough to learn them all.

One of the first wooden needles I bought were the knitters pride dreamz. I loved them. I then got the interchangeable set, and the set of chunky tips. They're still my favorite. I did get knitter's pride nova patina I think they're called. They're ok, but I really don't like the noise metal needles makes. Even worse I swear my hands aren't as relaxed with the metal needles. I still use them, but only when I've got a sticky yarn. I think the dreamz are the polished type wooden needles, I think they've got pretty good points too, more important to me is that taper!

@laurenbeckerle7977

3 жыл бұрын

ps. I hope your hand feels better!!! I irritated a nerve in my right hand back in January. I probably had been knitting too much, and I slept on it weird. It took almost a month for it to get better. I decided to finally get knitting left handed, continental maybe, down. Now I knit both English and continental styles. Easy stuff with continental and more complex stuff right handed. Maybe that would help? It definitely made a HUGE difference.

Your description of your thumb pain also sounded like carpal tunnel to me. I dealt with thumb pain for several years. I was eventually diagnosed with arthritis in the thumb. A few months later, my hand therapist shared an article comparing thumb arthritis with carpal tunnel. I read it in hopes of learning about my conditioner. Instead, I learned that I had carpal tunnel.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I had the nerve conduction test done and they say I don't have carpal tunnel. And I've had xrays and they say no arthritis. The MRI said nothing wrong with my tendons or bones. I'm a mystery I suppose LOL!

Barbara (I am a long time viewer) - regarding your thumb pain - TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. Hand issues are something knitters cringe over. My knitting has slowed down alot because I am trying to rest my thumbs and extend my hand life. (I wear compression gloves from Mr. Knuckle while I am at work to protect my hands) Also, the reason why I am a selfish knitter. We only have just so much life in our hands and I am going to make the most of it. People keep telling me I should sell my knitting, do a little here and there. They just don't understand that people don't want to pay for the hand made items and then I have wasted hand life for no reason. The long and the short of it is, I enjoy all your videos. Just spending time with you on the screen is lovely. Keep talking and when you can knit again that is just bonus :)

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I know who you are (until you change your little picture LOL)! Thank you so much for the support.

tricky confusing subject ...excellent presentation ...for me when learning if it were not for a suggestion to use bamboo because the stitches kept falling off when trying to make a stitch ...it worked and .. I still have problems with metal but I have graduated to wood ;-)

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

I'm metal through and through LOL.

I had similar thumb problems. My hand doctor did what he called a nervectomy . He cut some nerves going to my thumb. This relieved all pain. I still have feeling in the thumb but no pain. It has been several years since he did this surgery. I have been really pleased. I wore a cast for a week. Had no physical therapy and could knit after 2 weeks. If you have questions I will be glad to answer what I can and give you name of doctor for reference. I live in East Tennessee. Good luck. Knitting is my therapy. Been knitting 60 years

I am not currently attached to anything at this point because I both crochet and knit. Denise has interchangeables for both crochet and knit. I am open to trying others but Denise was the most cost-effective at this point that has both. I tend to have a hook on the right side and a needle on the left. It works well for me as a great mix of both. I am faster and feel more confident but I am also a combination knit which confuses most people that watch me.

Before considering surgery you could search out a wrist support from a medical supply shop. Mine is secured with velcro (covers approx. 2 inches of forearm above the wrist to knuckles, a bit like an elastic supportive fingerless glove) with a moldable metal strip that sits under your hand. I wear for a couple days to take stress off wrist and realign hand/wrist and it helps tremendously. Tiger Balm is also helpful at relaxing the muscles in thumb. In my opinion the hand /thumb aches develop from the awkward hand position held for too long and unconsciously holding stress in the hand that aches. It is my opinion through observation and practice that considering Ergonomics is important in even the simplest tasks. I love metal Addis for most yarns but for slippery yarns I use bamboo.

I've determined I need both types. :)

@WatchBarbaraKnit

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, all the needles! LOL

Barbara, I have a shockingly similar pain in my right thumb, radiating down my wrist. Sometimes it is in my other fingers as well. It comes and goes, but I thought it was related to knitting and writing so much (in school getting bachelors degree in Accounting). My mom has arthritis in her hands and it runs in my family. My pain worsens considerably when my hands are cold. Hopefully you get some answers, and relief soon!!

I have 5” wood and 4” square metal depending on the type of yarn I’m using and the diameter. Maybe be getting a lace set soon too. I like options 😊

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Sounds great!

This is months late but I wanted to comment on the thumb/tendon issue. I had this. I ended up, co incidentally, going on HRT (hormone replacement therapy) and it cured my pain. My gyno said hormonal changes can cause pains. Just wanted you to know in case you have not resolved your issue.

I’m so happy that your hand has improved to the point where you can knit again. My question is, vís-a-vís a golf-type glove to “hold” your hand “together,” (Make any sense?) is there something on the market that could be used to protect yourself from further damage? I have RA and it’s settling in my right hand. I’m not a continental knitter, hence the right hand…but I’d like to do something now to mitigate the damage. I love everything about knitting…so much…, but I haven’t been able to knit in four months…hence the brace/glove idea. Hope you have the time to comment.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

Жыл бұрын

One of my co-workers does wear a stretchy glove that helps her when she knits. It's like one of those compression gloves. I would think something like that would help.

@Number9-ICY847

Жыл бұрын

@@WatchBarbaraKnit Thank you.

Thank you for this! Have you tried to knit Norwegian method? It has removed much hand fatigue for me and my arms and shoulders don’t hurt anymore. Look up Arne and Carlos and watch their tutorial videos! Game changer! Also I am in Florida too in St Augustine and wanted to offer some reiki sessions on your wrists to see if it helps? Or see a reiki practitioner in Sarasota?

@WatchBarbaraKnit

Жыл бұрын

I use a modified Norwegian purl but the rest of the Norwegian style doesn't sit well with me.

My hands-down favorite needles for knitting are the Lykke Driftwood (or Denim or Amber) needles. They are lightweight birch needles that are highly polished and they have a feeling to them like they have a coating on them, but it's just the high level of polishing. I just got myself the complete interchangeable set, and also have the interchangeable Tunisian crochet hooks from them. I simply can't deal with the clicking metal needles produce, and I don't like feeling like I"m going to drop stitches if the loops get too close to the ends of the needles.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Lykke are lovely needles. It's great that we can all find something that fits with our style of knitting.

So sorry about your hand problem! That really puts a crimp on what you love to do. I have arthritis in my hands, mainly my right hand and I am right handed, but so far so good. I really learned a lot from your video Barbara. I prefer polished wood needles. Thank you again for all you do! Also, I like your needle gauge, where is that from?

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I bought it at a convention, but we have them in the shop (A Good Yarn Sarasota). It is a multi-purpose sock ruler.

Hi Barbara, I hear you about hand pain radiating . If I may share what I have found helpful to relax the muscles and reduce pains from hand to shoulder . Of course, professional medical attention is a must and I hope all goes well. These are what I do. 1) Gentle hand, arm and shoulder massaging, maybe using a tennis ball in a tube sock, tossing the ball end over your shoulder, back up against a wall to gently massage the shoulder and shoulder blade. Another way to massage the hand and arm is to take a bouncy ball 2- 3” diameter and gently roll it under your hand and forearm over a table. Later use a 1” diameter rubber ball and do the same to reach smaller muscles. You decide how much pressure apply. 2) Practice using hands and arms in the opposite motion that you typically do, for example, rather than grasping as you would do for holding or using knitting needles, try opening your hands with a large, skinny rubber band about 3” diameter around your fingers. Starting with a relaxed rubber band is just to get the open action going with low resistance. Gradually switch to a rubber band with more resistance, so as to stretch and strengthen the palm side muscles of the hand rather than the back side of your hand muscles. 3) Doing a stretch and flex program called Classical Stretch with Miranda Esmond White, where she focuses on gently relaxing the hand, arm and shoulder muscles with shoulder blasts, special arm lifts she shows pro hockey players and athletes to do. She is on You Tube, as well and is on PBS. She has helped me overcome a lot of aches and pains and the relief have been longer lasting. She does a great job explaining how and why to move parts of the body. Every show is different but all of the shows work on the total body to increase mobility and wellbeing with fewer rather than excessive amounts of repetition . 4) Abstaining from repetitious movements, as you have been doing, is key until the doctor gives you a diagnosis. I wish you well in your recovery.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for taking the time to provide all of this useful information. I have a Doctor's appt and we will know more soon.

I wish i could use metal needles or hooks. But metal physically hurt me, and I don't know why. And I didn't know that about myself till I started knitting and using the metal needles. I couldn't figure out why my fingers and part of my hand hurt. So I use wood or bamboo needles. I've started to use the Prym needles and I like them. Wasn't sure if I would like them because of their tip. But I do like them alot. And the triangle shape of them also make my hands hurt less too. Which is a nice bonus. Lol! Thanks for another great video.

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

You are not the first person I've spoken to that has that issue. Metal can be hard on some people's hands. Glad you found needles that work for you.

Hi Barbra, you poor thing! Excellent video, just what I needed as my hubby is going to buy me a set for our anniversary (need to tell him what though). Try Dr. Berg on KZread, I'm pain and inflammation free now. Love, mil x

Hi Barbara, I enjoyed this video so much! I am a seasoned knitter/crocheter. I have been using metal needles for years and never owned a set of interchangeable needles. I am hearing mixed reviews about them so I am indecisive about purchasing a set of interchangeable needles. Some of the questions I have been struggling with include: Which brand is better? I work with a variety of yarns. Should I get both bamboo and metal? Some of the sets are so expensive. What are the differences between brands? Will they really help me improve my knitting? Can they be more ergonomic? Like you said, it depends on my preferences and my knitting method. I guess I will just have to take the plunge. Thank you for the advice. I hope you were able to discover what the issue behind the pain was. Take care!

@WatchBarbaraKnit

3 жыл бұрын

I completely understand about getting an interchangeable set being a big commitment. There are definitely pros and cons and I hope you find what works best for you.

Barbara, I shall rant and rave at the universe until it is treating your hand better! I hope it is more effective than the ranting I do on my own behalf. I remember the first time I heard of bamboo needles, I pictured them complete with the bumpy parts (nodes, for the botanists among you). Lots of useful information here, and nice to have it all in one place. Anything that helps new knitters keep knitting is wonderful, because it means they'll thin the stock at the LYS before I get there with my brand new credit card and no supply of Yarnsulin. I'm pretty fortunate to not experience much difference in needle types, other than the length. I can use them all, but do have to adjust my grip. One type I do like is the fixed circulars where the needle tip is angled, a sort of hybrid of a short and long tip length. Do you have an opinion on those?