A knitter's array of needles can be compared to a golfer's clubs or a woodworker's tools. Having the right tool for the job makes the experience not only easier and quicker, but a heck-of-a-lot more enjoyable. That's why most knitters have an arsenal of needles at hand- we want to have the right needle for the project. Size isn't the only important consideration, but material can be vital. Mohair might not he an enjoyable knit with bamboo- it might not slip off the needles nicely, but use a nice aluminum needle and you have the right fit. It could be the opposite for lace- you might want to use bamboo or a needle coated in brass to increase friction so those large stitches don't just slip right off the needle.
That's why it's exciting when a new type of knitting needle is introduced. With the new Karbonz, Knitter's Pride did their research and kept up with a trend, but tweaked it a bit and added a nickle-plated brass tip that is more comfortable on the fingers (not too pointy). I have for you every size of Karbonz 6" DPs and Karbonz 8" DPs, made from sizes US 000 to US 4.
A couple weeks ago, I gave a try to these carbon fiber composite needles and I really enjoyed how weightless they are. I found the warmth of the needles to be a welcome change, as I usually knit with metal needles and forgot how nice it is to knit with a needle that isn't cold to the touch in the middle of winter. And I'll admit that I was hesitant about the tips being a different material than the rest of the needle, but while I could tell there was a change where the needles went from carbon fiber to metal, it was similar to the same feeling you'd notice anytime you're knitting with a circular needle and the metal needle meets the plastic cable. There was no snagging or annoying jump.
What I also like about these needles is the price - similar needles made of the same material cost considerably more. So this is a great way to try something fun and new, and not break the bank. Give them a try!
If you'd like to read a thorough review of these needles, take a gander at what Clara Parkes of Knitters Review thought.
Wow! Thanks for posting that. I've had a pair of Blackthorns on my wishlist for awhile, but I think I'll try these instead.
Posted by: Bonnie | March 18, 2013 at 12:59 PM
I got a set of Karbonz doule point sock needles in size 1 to try out. I have some expensive wood dp's that break very easily in the size 1's, so I am hoping the Karbonz will offer the good quality without the breakage. So far, so good. The join at the tip is no big deal, I hardly notice it, and the stitches flow really well when I'm knitting. The needles don't bend either, a problem I was having with bamboo needles. These are a good deal, and I will be buying more of them.
Posted by: Nathanne | March 18, 2013 at 03:35 PM
I've been thinking of trying these for awhile now. I love bamboo DPN's & the square Kollage but am not fond of metal DPN's in general. I think a set or 2 will make their way into my next order.
Posted by: Donna | March 18, 2013 at 06:07 PM
How about the size One circular needles - cable length of 32? For us non-dpn sock knitters?
And I saw in the latest Vogue Knitting that Addi has a new sock needle line....
Just a suggestion, or two. Thanks!
Posted by: jeanne | March 18, 2013 at 10:38 PM
Hi Allison, I just learnt how to knit socks 2 at a time and was wondering if you will be carrying the Karbonz Circular Needles?
Posted by: Mun Yee | March 19, 2013 at 10:11 PM
I like to knit tightly on fine needles, so I am thrilled that these go down to size US 000, as I often find the US 0 is too big. I just might have to give them a try!
Posted by: Sarah | March 20, 2013 at 12:54 PM
I have these needles in the circulars and I LOVE them. I am currently in the process of buying more....
Posted by: Andrea | March 26, 2013 at 12:26 PM