The Difference Between a Circular Needle and a Cable Needle
Knitting has always been a popular hobby and pastime that is both relaxing and rewarding. However, to get started with knitting, you need to have the right tools. Two of the most commonly used knitting needles are the circular needle and the cable needle. These two may look similar at first glance, but they have distinct differences that are important to consider when purchasing knitting supplies.
What is a Circular Needle?
A circular needle has two needle tips joined by a flexible cable. This type of needle is ideal for projects that require knitting in the round or for working with a large number of stitches. They come in various lengths and sizes, depending on the project you are working on. Unlike straight needles, which can cause wrist fatigue, circular needles distribute the weight of the project more evenly, making it more comfortable for the knitter to handle.
What is a Cable Needle?
On the other hand, a cable needle is a straight needle with tapered tips. It is usually shorter than a regular needle and is used to hold stitches that are not currently in use. A cable needle is commonly used when knitting cables, as it holds the stitches in place while other stitches are worked. The stitch is slipped onto the cable needle and then held behind or in front of the work before being knitted.
The Differences Between the Two Types of Needles
The main difference between a circular needle and a cable needle is their shape and purpose. A circular needle is used for knitting in the round, while a cable needle is used for knitting cables. The flexible cable of a circular needle allows for the stitches to be distributed and held more comfortably, while the straight cable needle is used to hold stitches in place while knitting cables with a single row or crossing stitches over each other.
Which One Should You Choose?
Which needle you should choose largely depends on the project you have in mind. If you are planning on knitting in the round or tackling large projects that require a lot of stitches, a circular needle is the way to go. However, if you are interested in adding cables to your knitted creations, a cable needle will be essential. If you are just starting out with knitting, you might want to try both types of needles to determine which one you prefer and which one is most comfortable for you to use.
