20 essential tools for your kit

Basics, marvels and treats for knitters

The basics You’ll need most of these goodies to get your hobby started! 1 Straight needle set

Ok, so you don’t need a complete set of straight needles immediately, a few pairs of needles will do at first, but a complete set like this makes the perfect birthday gift, and sets you o on the right foot!

Lykke 35cm Indigo Straight Needle Set, £149.99

2

Organiser

Many knitters start by jotting notes around the edge of the pattern, but having your own organiser means you can keep your patterns clean and stay one step ahead! www.popcornandcrocodiles.co.uk, £21

3 Stitch holders

If you need to hold stitches from your knitted shoulders or neckline, stitch holders are your best friend. In most cases you can knit straight from them too!

4 Needle gauge

When you’re keen to double check, or the sizes have rubbed o your needles, this gem is essential. KnitPro Needle Gauge, £1.95, www.knitpro.eu for stockists

5 Small sharp scissors

A small pair of scissors, kept just for knitting, is ideal for packing away and taking when on the move. Hemline Stork Scissors from www.lovecrafts.com, £6.95

6 Tape measure

This trusty tool is essential for measuring all sorts of knitted lengths. Mr Foxy Tape Measure, Mrs Handmade on www.etsy.com, £4.95

7 Knitting bag

Once your knitting addiction kicks in, you’ll want to take your knits with you everywhere! A project-sized knitting bag keeps everything you need close at hand. Roll Top Bag from www.kellyconnor designs.com, £27.95

8 Stitch markers

Use these pretty essentials for marking repeats, the start of rounds or where to line up sleeves in your knitting.

Set of Stitch Markers, EweMomma on www.etsy. com, £5.95

9 Crochet hook

Keep a crochet hook on hand for picking up any dropped stitches mid project. You’ll soon become a dropped stitch expert! Clover Armour Crochet Hooks, £5.99