The success of any wood needles project starts by choosing the proper knitting needle. That's because the needle determines what the stitches look like and how much you actually enjoy knitting. The more you enjoy it, the more you will knit and the better you will become. Given how much influence knitting needles have on a project, there are a few things to consider when buying them. Here is a brief discussion of each of these factors.

Types of Knitting Needles

There are different types of bamboo knitting needles because each one fulfills a different purpose. Before you buy any knitting needles, you should have a good idea of what you will be knitting so that you can match the appropriate type of needle to your project. Here are four different types of needles to choose from.

1. Single Pointed Knitting Needles (or Straight Needles). These needles are straight, with a point on one end and a knob or a cap on the other end. The knob prevents stitches from falling off the needle, while new stitches are added to the pointed end. Use two single pointed knitting needles to knit flat pieces, such as scarves or sweaters.

2. Circular Needles. These bamboo crochet hooks have a flexible plastic cord in the middle, which connects a single pointed needle at both ends of the cord. The length of the cord varies in length, anywhere from 12 inches to 60 inches, depending on the size of the finished knitted piece. Use circular needles for both circular and flat knitting.

3. Double Pointed Needles (or DPNs). These needles have points at both ends. Since four or five needles are used at the same time, double pointed needles are usually sold in sets of either four or five. Use these needles to knit circular pieces without showing any seams, such as socks.

4. Cable Needles. These single point needles are very short, very thin and can be either straight or hooked. Use these needles to help you knit cable stitches.