Double pointed needles (DPNs) are needed when you are working in the round in an area of small circumference - an area smaller than the length of circular needles. Examples of where double points are needed:

• socks
• the very top of a hat, when decreasing near the top
• leg warmers
• arm warmers
• mittens & gloves
• sweater cuffs and perhaps neck

Depending on the manufacturer, DPNs are sold as a pack of four or five needles. With four DPNs, the knitting sits on three needles, and you knit with the fourth.  With five DPNs, your work sits on four needles and you knit with the fifth needle. Working with five double pointed needles is sometimes easier, and puts less stress on the fabric you are making. Using five needles also helps prevent the formation of loose stitches at the juncture between the double points. Many sock patterns are written for four DPNs, but you can easily adjust to use five needles.

Double pointed needles come in a variety of lengths, and this varies by manufacturer. Susan Bates produces only a 6-inch length, but Brittany produces several different lengths. The shorter ones are great for socks, cuffs, baby items and gloves. The longer ones are great for necks.

As with all needles, people develop preferences about the lengths and materials of double pointed needles. So it is important to try out some different styles and manufacturers to find the needles that are the most comfortable for you and your knitting style.

The double pointed needles we carry are:

Susan Bates (metal) Crystal Palace Bamboo, Brittany Birch