Square Knitting Needles? All you need to know

Knitting tools - Square Knitting Needles! Some popular brands to consider

Square knitting needles are a special type of knitting needle that have a square or rectangular cross-section, as opposed to the traditional circular or rounded cross-section of most knitting needles. It is a relatively new type of knitting needle that have become increasingly popular in recent years.

The exact origin of the square knitting needle is not clear, and it is likely that several inventors or manufacturers played a role in its development. One of the earliest and most prominent makers of square knitting needles is a company called Kollage Yarns.

These needles come in various sizes and materials, just like round knitting needles, including:

Metal

Aluminum or stainless steel square needles are sturdy, durable, and offer a smooth knitting experience. They are ideal for those who prefer a slicker surface for faster knitting.

Wood

Wooden square needles are lightweight and offer a warm, comfortable feel. They provide more grip than metal needles, making them a suitable choice for those who prefer more control over their knitting.

Bamboo

Bamboo square needles are lightweight, smooth, and slightly flexible. They offer a comfortable knitting experience and a good balance between grip and speed.

Square knitting needles can be a great choice for many knitters. Here are some reasons why you might want to use square knitting needles:

Square knitting needles can be a great choice for many knitters. 4 reasons why you might want to use square knitting needles:

Ergonomic design

Square knitting needles have a flat, square shape that can be more comfortable to hold than traditional round needles. The flat edge of the needle rests against your fingers, reducing the strain on your hands and wrists and making it easier to knit for long periods of time.

Better tension

The square shape of the needle can help create more consistent tension in your knitting. The flat edges of the needle grip the stitches more firmly, reducing the likelihood of dropped stitches and uneven tension.

Reduced slipping

The flat edges of the needle can also reduce the likelihood of the stitches slipping off the needle. This can be especially helpful when working with slippery yarns or when knitting complex patterns that require a lot of handling.

Improved stitch definition

The square shape of the needle can help create more defined stitches, making it easier to see the pattern and any mistakes that may need to be corrected.

If you're interested in trying out square knitting needles, consider testing out a few different materials and sizes to find the ones that work best for you and your knitting style.

Things you need to know about Square Knitting Needles?

Are there any downsides to using square knitting needles?

While square knitting needles are generally well-liked by many knitters, there are some downsides to using them that may not be suitable for everyone.

First, square knitting needles may take some time to get used to, especially if you are used to working with traditional round needles. The square shape can feel different in your hands, and it may take some time to adjust your knitting technique to accommodate the shape of the needles.
Second, square knitting needles can be more expensive than traditional round needles, particularly if you opt for high-quality materials such as wood or metal. This can be a downside for knitters who are on a tight budget.
Finally, some knitting patterns may not be designed for use with square needles.
It's always a good idea to try out different types of needles to see what works best for you and your knitting projects.

There are popular brands of square knitting needles available on the market, such as Kollage, Addi, Knitter's Pride. When choosing a brand, consider the material and size of the needles, as well as any special features, such as a comfortable grip or a smooth, snag-free finish. It can also be helpful to read reviews from other knitters to get an idea of the quality and performance of different brands. By trying out a few different brands and materials, you can find the square knitting needles that work best for you and help you create beautiful, comfortable, and consistent knitted projects. Overall, the best brand of square knitting needles will depend on your individual preferences and needs!