Beginnerland
In Search of a Faster Route off Sleeve Island
Dear Ann,
Earlier this week I was thrilled to finish the ribbing and bind off the hem of the Bottom Line Pullover that I’m making for the Great Isabell Knitalong.
I was immediately unthrilled by the prospect of knitting two long, narrow tubes, aka the sleeves. I have to really buckle down and not get distracted by casting on a new, shiny, and perhaps more summer-y project. (See below.)
These sleeves are living on borrowed time. I have to get them done now or risk not getting them done until it’s cold again. It will be so nice in September to have a completely finished, brand-new sweater on the shelf.
C’mon, will power! Finish the sweater!
The Trouble with Sleeves
There are no perfect solutions to knitting small circumferences in the round. For me, anyway, it’s a pick-your-poison situation. I have been known to knit them flat and seam them, and I think that’s a perfectly good answer. But I also appreciate the elegance of a sweater with zero seams, so I want to knit these sleeves in the round.
The tried-and-true, traditional way of knitting a small circumference in the round is double-pointed needles. I get along OK with DPNs, but I don’t love them. I have never been able to overcome the tendency to pull out the wrong needle, and they don’t travel very well. I’m either anxious about losing one somewhere in the seat of a plane, train, or automobile, or actually losing one in the seat of a train, plane, or automobile.
The alternatives that I know—Cat Bordhi’s two-circulars method and the Magic Loop—are clever and secure, but they both require frequent interruption of knitting to readjust the stitches on the needles. I know that you can get into a rhythm with these methods, but I’ve never been completely convinced. Maybe I just don’t do it often enough. Maybe I’m a weenie.
What if you could combine the 2-circs method (in which the stitches are divided between just two needles) and DPNs?
That’s the solution proposed by the good folks at Addi, with their FlexiFlips. Just three needles (shown lying on the sweater above): two to hold the stitches, and the third to knit with. You go round and round, with minimal interruption, as you do with DPNs. The “flexi” aspect is that the needles bend in the middle, which makes them hold the stitches in a round the way DPNs do, and makes it physically possible to knit in the round on just two needles. They’re very, very short circular needles.
Right now I’m on the first sleeve, and there are still enough stitches that I can hold them all on a short circular, but the stitch count is decreasing fast. I’ve test-driven the FlexiFlips briefly before, and I’m optimistic, but these two sleeves are going to be my Product Testing.
Readers, have you tried these needles? What do you think of them? Should we carry them in the MDK Shop? Does the functionality make it worth acquiring another type of tool? Answers on a postcard, please (in the comments).
The Carrot at the End of the Stick
Here’s my incentive to race to the bottom of these sleeves: Hatdana, a new pattern by Denise Bayron.
When Hatdana first came out earlier this month, it was all I could do not to cast on immediately. I’m not much for headwear, but I’m excited for Hatdana as a summer cowl, in linen or cashmere.
And then, to make it all the more alluring, Denise recently updated the pattern to add a fingering-weight option.
So here’s my weekend plan: knit those sleeves. I promise! I’ll knit them on a flight to Nashville this morning, and then on a drive to Florence, Alabama, this afternoon, and then every chance I get while in Florence.
In my knitting bag, whispering to me like a small child wanting another cup of Sprite, will be the Hatdana pattern and a skein of Sylph in Maidenhair. Linen and cashmere, light as a breeze. I hope I’ll be knitting it on the flight home, with a finished Bottom Line pullover packed away in my carryon.
Wish me luck!
Don’t forget to share your FlexiFlips opinions below.
Love,
Kay
Kay, Your Bottom Line is looking great! I finished mine last night in Jill Draper’s Dark Cherry, a beautiful claret color. For the sleeves, I use 2 very short circular needles and knit with a third – the shortest circulars available. I find this less confusing than the Cat Bordhi method. I think this would be like using the FlexiFlips but with more flexibility in the middle. When the circumference gets small you want all the flexibility of a circular, I think.
I am going have to try Judy’s short circular method. I just recently tried making some socks with the flexi flips. They were awkward. I wasn’t getting in a good groove with them so I went back to dpn. I wanted to love the flexi flips but that didn’t happen. At least not yet.
For me, double points require more adjusting than magic loop. Attached sleeves are cumbersome to knot because they’re attached! So your constantly have to shlunk the body of your sweater around in your lap to get it in the right position to knit the next needle full of sleeve stitches.
Addi Flex Flips are not much more secure than regular dpns. I could see them being easier to use once you get used to them. I use magic loop a lot so when I tried flex flips I kept dropping one on the floor. This would not work well on a plane.
Some manufacturers including Addi make a 12” circ. I like this for sleeves — gets me most of the way to the cuff. Then I suffer the last couple of inches w magic loop.
I use Chiaogoo 9” or 12” circulars and have almost all but tossed out my DPN’s.
Me too, I have a range of short circulars, they beat DPN’s anyday!
I use Chiaogoo 9 ” circulars too, for socks etc. I adjusted pretty quickly after one
class at my LYS. I highly recommend them. I am 70 years old but have no problems with arthritis. If I can do it on size 1 and 2 needles, you can! It’s also fun to learn new things.
YES – me too! I get why people love two at a time on a long cord, makes sense. But for me, I can just fly with those little circs. And it looks fantastic completed. No ladders or lost dpns. No fidgety stitches to rearrange, just simple easy knitting in the round. Perfection!
I’m a confirmed double point sock knitter. I tried the flexi flips for one pair and just never felt comfortable with them. They have gone to a happier home and I have returned to my happy little DPNs.
I, too, prefer double points to the constant cable adjusting of long circulars or two circulars for magic loop knitting. So my answer is a big YES. Flexi-Flips are the best of both worlds and much less likely to be dropped and/or slip into the sleeve of what you’re wearing as you walk wildly around the house repeating the words, “where could that blasted needle be? I JUST had it”. I see these these little gems as sanity savers.
I have some flexiflips and for the most part am happy with them. My one issue is that I feel that they are too short for some things — my stitches are crowded on the needle and that slows me down. I’ve found for socks I still prefer two circulars.
I used FlexiFlips for the sleeves in my Liberty Tree Pullover and they worked really well, and I’ll use them for Petula when I get there. have a tendency to poke holes in my fingertips when I use DPs and I had no issues with the FlexiFlips. I like the way they’re packaged, too.
I love my small small circs for socks but am yet to aquire a pair for sleeves. I’ve found when I start the sleeves on DPNs my tension is looser than the yoke so they kind of *bulge* in a weird way…the perfect solution must be out there!
I’m on top down sleeves right now. For the last couple of projects, I’ve used a 16 inch circular for the top and a 12 inch circular for the bottom. Most of the time, I use wood needles due to hand issues but have found the 12 inch metal circus to work best for me.
I bought the Flexi-Flips. I wanted to love them. Really, I did. I hated them. Returned them to the store where I bought them. Told the nice lady behind the counter I hated them. She leaned across the counter and whispered “Me too.” But there are as many ways to knit as there are knitters. After 50 knitting years, I’ve just started using the Magic Loop and I do love that, ditto Cat Bordhi’s two circs method. I really, really hate DP’s but find I never ever need struggle with those again now that I’ve got the ML nailed!
I also jumped at the chance to try the FlexiFlips and really wanted to love them. But I hated them and gave them to another knitter in my group who loves them. To each her own. I personally am a fan of dpns.
I tried the flexiflips and loathed them. I returned them. My preference is wooden needles, or something with a bit of ‘give’. Using metal needles on constant curves stress my fingers and I can’t knit as long.
I like to use a 12″ circular needle to do my sleeves. I find that for my sleeves I can use them all the way through knitting the whole sleeve with out having to switch to other needles.
I have not tried the Flexi yet and do not feel the need to do so as the perfect way for ME is knitting sleeves on Addi Sockenwunder – one 25 cm circular needle with one shorter and one longer needle point. Except for socks I also use these for tops of hats. That being said, perhaps I get the chance to try the Flexi ones and it might be an eye opener.. 😉
I never heard of Addi Sockenwunder. Just tried looking online, but they are not available in USA. Are they new? I’d like to try them, too.
I believe they are called Addi Easy Knits here in the States. I hate those super short needles (my hands get tired using them) and these needles have made such a difference. I prefer to hold the longer needle in my dominant hand.
I have never heard of these – just ordered a set to test, because I hate the tiny tips on small circumference needles. Not a FF fan for that reason.
I have two sets of Flexiflips so I can can make a pair of socks at once, and I love them! Knitting is so fast. I appreciate that each needle offers two different points as well. Really I’d like to buy several more sets for circular knitting.
I could try the Flexi Flips recently and I found them absolutely great! I’ll definitely buy me those wonder needles for my next trip to sleeve island.
I adore Flexi-Flips! Used them the first time for sleeves about a year ago and have never looked back. I’m not a fan of double points, generally used two circulars prior to getting the flexi-flips.
Flexi flips have become my sock needles and sleeve needles. I never quite got the joy of magic loop (all that cord pulling) or two circs (which needle next?) but the flips are great. The two ends are different, so watch that at first, but much nicer than DP’s.
Yes, stock them in the shop!
I too really wanted to like these babies, and went out and bought some 2’s and 3’s. But I agree with Wendyknits—they are just too short and stitches threaten to come off the ends. If you can’t use them on socks and mittens, what’s the point?
I am DPN challenged so whenever a knitting project calls for a tube, whether it be socks or a sweater sleeve I use one 60” circular needle and the magic loop method (shown in the video below). However, the FlexiFlips are intriguing and I would like to give them a try! Maybe they could get me past my DPN phobia!
https://youtu.be/IdSpc0EZpnk
Interesting! Thanks.
However you knit those sleeves, have a great time in Florence! A little sewing weekend?
I tried the FlexiFlips and they were ok but fiddly – I mostly use steel DPNs, so the sudden flexibility in the middle of the needle was a little off-putting to me. But sometimes it’s just nice to use something different to keep the old brain thinking. 😉
Lately I’ve been using one medium/long circular needle for small circumferences, with a trick I learned from Karen Templer. Instead of working Magic Loop, I create a “bubble” with the extra length on the cord, looping it out of the work where the round changes. It stays in place as you work around – making a very obvious end-of-row marker – and easily accommodates changes in the number of stitches. It also works without nearly as much faffing about as Magic Looping requires. It’s hard to explain in words, but it’s really handy!
I do this too or I use a 12″ circular. I don’t mind dpns but flexible in the middle sounds offputting.
Could you be using the “traveling” loop. I’m beginning to use this method; easier to contend with than the ML “loops.” There are videos on YouTube; search traveling loop.
Oohhh, I can picture what you are describing and it makes sense! I’ve never wanted to embrace Magic Loop because of the fiddling (and I’m ok with DPNs), but this sounds great! Thanks for this idea!
I do this and have found that it works really well. It’s still very fiddly when you get to cuffs of a sleeve but the end is in sight. Having said that I’m currently marooned on sleeve island – mainly due to current exciting projects. 🙂
I have four sets of FlexiFlips, one set in metal and three bamboo. I bought the metal ones to knit socks (US 1) and liked them enough to try the bamboo (US1, 2, 2.5). Maybe it’s the small sizes I’ve got, but the joins on the bamboo ones are not great. I find myself reaching for my dpns instead of the FlexiFlips.
I’ve tried the Addi Flexitips. I agree they are a useful addition for small circumferences. Especially neat if knitting in confined spaces, like travelling etc. Also useful for sock knitting, especially when starting the heel flap, put the spare stitches on a Flexi needle and it swings them right out of the way. They are a little bit tiny in length, not long enough to curve your palm around them, the action is all in the finger tips, which can get a bit tiring. My current favourite method is both sleeves together and a magic loop – but that means two balls of yarn for each colour, so it’s not always a tidy option. I am pleased to have the Flexitips in my bag of tools.
I’m a HUGE fan of FlexiFlips! I won’t go back to DPNs for socks or mittens now. I haven’t tried them for sleeves. My one suggestion: unless you are already using Addi Turbos for the body of the sweater, swatch separately for the sleeves. I find I often need to drop a size or two using these needles, because I knit much looser with them.
Fascinating. There’s a saying among beekeepers: “Ask 10 beekeepers a question and you’ll get 20 answers.”. Guess I’ll have to try the Flexis myself to find out if I’ll love them or hate them – seems to be no in-between. I do know I can’t use the really short circulars (less than 16”) because the tiny needles are too difficult for my old fingers. Thanks to everyone for their experiences.
I, too, am not a fan of magic loop for all the reasons noted previously but mostly because I spend more time pulling needles and cords around than knitting! I don’t mind dpns, but they don’t travel well. I tried the flexi-tips when knitting a pair of fair isle type mittens with a repeating front and back pattern. They were perfect for that application! The advantage of knitting on two needles, with the identical pattern on each, allowed me to knit much faster and commit the pattern to memory with one glance vs dividing it on three needles as I would have for dpns. It was worth the price of admission for this reason alone. The two types of points is a bonus!
YES! I agree: makes it easier to see motifs when on just 2 needles instead of 4. I’m sold on Flexis for socks, haven’t tried them on other things yet. I did find the metal ones a bit slippery with super wash yarn but bamboo is just right. And no more dropping one DPN in the dark somewhere. Isn’t it great that we knitters have so many choices these days!
I have several pairs of flexi-flips. Love them for socks, Don’t like them for anything larger than 3mm though. My favourite for everything else is 2 short circs. DPNs and magic loop are avoided as much as humanly possible.
For my last sweater I Knit the sleeves two at a time using magic loop. It’s a little fiddly getting started but then quite fast and enjoyable. The only problem was that for some reason my gauge tightened up and the sleeves were a little tighter than I expected. I may go up a needle size next time. I took a two at a time sock class with Mina Phillip and applied the method to sleeves. You are positioning the stitches half as often as knitting them separately. And I only joined them together twice! But that was obvious as soon as I screwed up so no no biggie.
I’m trying to be less dramatic, but I absolutely detest the Addi Flexi needles. (Don’t me wrong, Addi Rockets are my needles of choice.) I cannot get my hands comfortable on the Flexis-the ends feel too short for my hands. I really regret the money I spent on a couple of sets. Disclaimer: I love the magic loop method and don’t see how it can be considered more fiddly than double pointed needles. Hmmm… little extreme. Guess it’s time to go meditate.
Anna. I don’t find this extreme at all. Please don’t try to meditate yourself out of having opinions and feelings.
I have just finished sleeves with HiyaHiya flexi flips and have a pair I’m working with for a sock. I’m used to socks on two circulars, so it took a while to get used to having a loose needle. It was dropped to the floor many times. I really like them!
I’m comfortable with DPNs but mostly use magic loop. I tried the flexi-flips in my local yarn shop and wasn’t that impressed with them – they seem like a weird hybrid of the two methods.
You’re going to Florence! INSANELY JEALOUS!!! Have a fabulous time!
I prefer a plain 16” circular until it is too long, then I switch to a 12” if I can. Sometimes I will use two circulars too. The 12” only goup to size 9.
The two-circular method makes it easier to not have the sleeve get twisted as after knitting off of one needle, I am reminded to turn my work to untwist the sleeve, if that makes any sense.
I wish the interchangeable needle makers would come out with a 14” cable for my short (16”) tips.
I used to always beg my parents to let me drink Sprite. As a kid, it was the best! The best! Crank through those sleeves – you’ll be so happy in September when you have a fresh sweater.
I’m working on a pair of socks with flexi flips, and I’m not really loving them the way I thought I would. They seem somehow more awkward than dpns. Maybe I will eventually get comfortable with them, so I’m trying to at least get through one sock without abandoning them, but so far I’d just as soon be using dpns or two circulars. I guess we all have our personal preferences. Some people love magic loop, but I can’t stand it.
I guess I should start off by saying I have no problems with DPNs or ML. I’m a co-owner of a yarn shop in Colorado and we do carry flexi-flips. We don’t sell many of these needles. I agree with the “you either love them or you really don’t” theory. The “love them” folk are less than the “don’t” in our experience.
I have used them for socks and like them, never thought of using them for sleeves. I’m off to try them to finish my Calligraphy …..
Kay, I am one that prefers double points over a 16″ or even 12″ circular because of the needle size. I am a needle gripper, so on the smaller circs the needle length is short and my hand aches when I use them. I tried a pair of flexiflips and it took some getting use too. I do like the needle length on them but wish the flexi part was an inch longer (they would be perfect then and I would buy a pair in every size). It takes some getting use too, but a good alternative.
First of all, it sounds like you’re going to Alabama Chanin—– and I’m jealous. Secondly I am so intrigued to learn more about these needles and will be keeping my eyes peeled! Knit on, sleeve island will soon be behind you!
I love the concept of the flexi flips, I don’t love the tips. I like sharp needles and both sides didn’t feel sharp enough. I tried the hiya hiya flexi flyers and like the points much better. I love having all the different options in my arsenal.
I like the Flexi Flips, though they take some getting used too. One draw back, is that sometimes I find them just a tad short, by like 5-10 stitches. I use 3 small circs with the same technique.
You know – I’ve seen these but I didn’t buy them (and I don’t DPN) because I’ve been disappointed by Addis too many times. The price point is too high for the quality of the brand’s cables, IMO. Also, on some level, these needles just seems like a gimmick to me. But then, I find magic loop sleeves, or flat sleeves, to be easily enough doable. If you haven’t found your sleeve sweet spot, they may be just the thing for you!
I have experimented with a friends Flexiflips and did not like them enough to run out and buy my own, yet. But no needle is going to eliminate my biggest issue which is that I truly hate knitting the sleeves top down and having to have the whole sweater turning and turning about on my lap. There is no good solution to this issue, and it doesn’t get any better when the whole weight of the sweater is being supported by short little needles. I don’t mind a top down childs sweater because its not all that big, but for an adult: I just avoid the style if there is no way to rework things and knit the sleeves separately. (I don’t mind seaming at a all). Call me contrary, but I am kind of impatiently waiting for this yoke thing to fizzle out.
Another option is to knit the sleeves before the body of the sweater, that way there is less bulk to futz with.
To avoid wrestling the entire sweater body while knitting the sleeves in a top-down … don’t wait until the body is completed! Once you have separated for sleeves & body and have worked about an inch of body … put it on waste yarn to hold the stitches secure and work your sleeves. I will sometimes go ahead and work the body until the skein I’m working with runs out.
Advantages? Less fabric in your lap. Ability to do a “sanity try-on” very early in the process. (Once the sleeves are about elbow-length, put THEM on waste yarn, too.) Is the armscye deep enough? Are the upper sleeves too big / too small? Does the neckline sit the way you want it?
Disadvantages? The time you spend slipping stitches to waste yarn and then replacing them on your working needle. The loss of the “running-out-of-yarn-so-I’ll-make-the-sleeves-shorter” option.
On sleeves, generally — I tend to work two at a time, flat on a long circ, and then do a quick seam at the end. Knitter’s choice! After looking at videos for the Flexi-Tip and also for SockWonder ,,, I think not, unless I had the opportunity to play with them before committing to buy. I do have 9″ circs but found they make my hands hurt and I suspect the same problem would come up with these alternate tools.
When you knit your sleeves, get out a big stainless steel salad bowl to hold the sweater in your lap. It supports the weight of the sweater which spins easily as you knit the sleeves. After you stop laughing, try it. Works for me!!!
Didn’t read all the comments before responding! I totally agree with your solution. Made a huge difference for me, too!
This is a great idea. I have two (TWO) sweaters sitting on sleeve island right now and this may turn them from UFOs to FOs.
Fantastic idea! And I have this vision of Kay on the subway, with a salad bowl full of knitting on her lap! 😉
You could knit the sleeves separately and graft them onto the yoke.
I didn’t listen to a knitting friend who hated her Flexiflips. I tried them and hated them, too. But then…I feel almost as strongly about DPNs and tiny-circ needles, so I’m beginning to think maybe I just don’t love knitting small tubes and should develop a love for vests.
So I have a slightly different approach to sleeve island. I go to the island early! Then I can leave it when I’m done with the sleeves and go back to the more enjoyable part of finishing the body. I do this for circular yoke and top-down sweaters, after I’ve finished the yoke, divided the work for the sleeves, and knitted a ways below that point. Usually a great resting point is the end of a ball of yarn. This is helpful too when I’m not quite sure I’m going to have enough yarn so I don’t have to play yarn chicken on the sleeves. On the sleeves I usually use magic loop, although I do have a pair of these flextip needles to try next time I knit a sweater on size 3s. I tried a brand of three curved needles made in Germany, brand is Neko, but I find I don’t like the plastic material and they don’t come in metal.
JINX! I should have read through the comments before replying, in order to not duplicate Lisa’s tip!
I’m pretty new to knitting, but I’ve made several pair of socks but now sweaters. I tried DPNs and hated them as I was always pulling out the wrong needle. I love ML, I don’t mind pulling out the needle and fiddling with the stitches. I never get a ladder as I give the yarn a pretty good tug when starting a new section. The flexi thingies don’t interest me in the least. Most of the reviews I’ve read were pretty negative, and since I’m happy w/ ML, why change? That sweater is fabulous, it will be so nice to have a new one in the fall. Not sure about that hat/cowl, especially for summer. It looks hot, no matter what it’s knit in. But if you think you’ll like it, that’s what matters.
I wanted to love Flexi Flips. I use the shortest circulars I can get with the shorter needle tips. Not awesome, but less fumbly. I am knitting for grandchildren now and those sleeves are small. Flexi flips are okay for them but I pull them out only when I can’t stretch the stitches over a 10” circular any more. The concept is great, execution not perfect but still better than dpns. Haven’t used a dpn in years.
I have two sets, US 6and 7. I find that I need to use point protectors to keep from losing stitches off the ends when making hats.
I have tried the FlexiFlips and love them!! The tips have a pointy end and a more blunt end so you can use either, depending on what you are knitting or your preference. I also have started knitting my sleeves before the body to get them over with and it has the extra advantage of less weight and bulk of the body as you round and round. Good Luck!
In recent times, when faced with having to knit some sleeves on a baby sweater, I have wondered if knitting in the round somehow alters the stability of the sleeve. After all, knitting in the round goes in a spiral and not discreet rows. That said, I know that thousands and thousands and thousands of sleeves have been knitted in the round. Still, I am wondering about it anyway.
I prefer Magic Loop so I can shorten my time on the sleeves by knitting them TAAT!
yes, I’ve tried them, NO, I don’t like them any better that regular double points …. my alternative, use one 9″ /10″ circ to finish off the sleeves!
So I boiled my tea water 3times now, reading blog and comments… I used to get up click on the kettle, set up the cup, get back to bed, when water boils get out of bed pour water and back to bed enjoying my tea….well ever since I stumbled over the mdk blog my routine is not working… I get sucked in and then when I want to reach for my tea it’s not there, water to cool to brew…. I been been knitting for 55 years going to school in Bavaria you have no choice .. First grade you crochet and cross stitch second grade you knit and so on.. I work fine with dpns, I do some hybrid version of a magic loop when it comes in handy, and I am a sucker for trying out new things. So if and when you stock the needles I’ll buy a pair from you. Currently besides my UFO’s I am working on the Whalsay sweater by Marie Wallin and wished she would have designed in the round but for once I want to knit it exactly the way it is written… Though I am using alpaca so it has a slight Haze I like it…. I love your blog I knit few things out of yoyo books ages ago or let’s say they inspired me to use an idea. The news these days while important are to depressing so your blog is the the perfect antidote… But for the tea issue.. So keep writing, keep commenting everybody and I’m sorry being succinct is not one of my virtues
I have the same Modern Daily tea kettle problem.
I love my Addi FlexiFlips and use them all the time. Shifting needles half as often is such a plus. My only complaint is that I wish both ends had sharp points. The Hiya Hiya Flyers have cured that problem but the tips are perhaps a bit too sharp. Just call me Goldilocks.
I’ve been wondering about these. I’ll wait to see what you think. If you like them and decide to carry them, i’ll get some from your shop. Right now, i usually use magic loop for my sleeves, and i haven’t had trouble with that. But something new is always fun!!
I love the FlexiFlips! They’re pure genius! I hate juggling 3-4 DPNs but just the 2 are fine. My preferred method for small tubes (aka. sleeves) will always be 2 circular needles but for socks or gloves I pick up the FlexiFlips. Who knows, maybe I’ll start picking up the FlexiFlips for sleeves soon.
My most recent sleeves were on my Calligraphy Cardi. I’m comfy with DPNs and started with those, but first one and then another disappeared. Just vanished. Inspired by Ann, I took the opportunity to I try magic loop. Then I tried two circs (I bought another needle for that). I ended up using a mishmash of mis-matched DPNs and a short circ substituted for one DPNs. That worked just fine and I flew through the remaining sleeve-and-a-half.
I really thought the missing DPNs would turn up when the new couch was delivered and the old one carted out, but nope!
I’m in love with that Hatdana and your Bottom Line looks so fantastic! You’ll be off sleeve island in no time. I just bought a set of Flexiflips and will be trying them out too. I jump around between small circs and DPNs and magic loop … but I think I’m fastest on DPNs. (Who knows!)
I have used the FlexiFlips and couldn’t get used to how short they are and thus, how short the tips are. I prefer two circulars with decent length tips. So there you have it, another knitter’s personal preference
What is it with all if these designs, I wonder, that call for sleeves to be knit in the round? Do people hate seaming? Designers hate seaming? Do they not realize or understand that a lot of times, seams are a good thing, as they help keep a garment’s line straight, and lay properly?
I, too, hate double points. I’ve tried the Addi Flips but I find that one of them always sits awkwardly, and the actual needle shaft is very short, so I returned to Magic Loop. I must remember my manta to just knit sleeves flat and seam. It will be interesting to see what you think of them …. or how others handle them.
I concur. A good seam adds a lot of finishing to a garment. That said, in my LYS there are lovers of the Addi flex tips and haters. Haven’t tried them myself, as I usually knit flat and seam.
and a p.s. — really designers? we have to knit two sleeves, separately, and the entire body of the sweater keeps flip flopping in our laps. Give me normal construction any time … and a guarantee that by knitting two sleeves at once all my increases/decreases will occur at the exact same spots. (thank you, mama, zt’l, who taught me to knit, plus a sewing brain that kicks in)
Why doesn’t anyone knit bottom-up? Then you knit the body while watching TV or in the car while someone else drives, and take a sleeve with you in your purse for commuting. When it’s time to join it all together, generally there’s only a bit of sleeve to go. And you’re never flipping around an entire sweater just to knit a fiddly sleeve.
This is my favorite way to knit a sweater, too. Also, you can knit a sleeve first as a real-time swatch!
I have 11” Addi’s in every size and I look forward to sleeves! Sometimes I’ll knit both sleeves at once, doing, say, 5-10 rows on one side and then shifting to the other. It seems to make sleeve knitting fast and enjoyable. I’ve used DPNs and two circulars and don’t mind these, but this is so much easier.
bought a set of FlexiFlips at Madrona, and though for me they won’t replace DPNs, they are just fine, and great for meetings, planes, etc. Also less apt to poke a hole through your knitting bag.
I just recently tried magic loop on sleeves on a baby sweater because I had but three DPS left (some airplane must be knitting itself seat covers). I LOVED it. Ive done two circulars before as well for socks and pussy hats. Yes you have to move stitches, but I think it is easier on the long run.
I love DPNs! I know I’m kind of a freak but I can knit really fast that way for some reason. I can and will magic loop if I must, but it’s not my preference.
I’m intrigued by these. I’ll have to see if my LYS has a set to try before I buy. I have my favorite Addi interchangeables, a bunch of dpns, and a slew of needles I rarely or never use. I don’t need any more in that category.
I made the switch to “3-needle sleeves” and “3-needle socks” 6 months ago. I use whatever needle length I have, shorter is better. This technique is fast and easy. Love it.
I love my flexi flips for socks. I am however excited to try them when I get to the sleeves on my meryton but I’ll have to buy a pair of size 7’s for that which I will. I think since they work well on socks that they will work fine on sleeves However if not I have 2 pair of circulars and I don’t do magic loop either that I can use. gotta get this pair of socks and a pair of baby socks made before I can get back to the Meryton.
LOVE magic loop for ALL tubes. Have tried the Flexi Flips and am not a fan. The idea is good, but I can’t make them work well for me.
Sleeves in the round are a pain. My solution is two circs. I have used flexiflips on socks and have learned to like them. It takes time to figure out how to hold the resting needle (like an inverted “V”) while knitting half of the stitches onto the third needle. I also like Addi’s sockenwunder needles for socks. Both are better than dpns.
Have fun in Florence!
I am a tried and true double point user. I bought the flexiflips and really wanted to love them, hoping to avoid the occasional laddering that can happen with DPs. Bottom line, I hated them. They were more fiddly than DPs and the laddering on my sock was worse. Two inches in I pulled them out in disgust and gave them to a friend who loves them. To each his own, but they definitely didn’t work for me!
I’m glad to see that there are other knitters who hate the Flexi-flips. Add me to the list. DPNs are easier imho. Sally
I bought the Flexi’s after losing too many DPN’s on airplanes. Unfortunately, I don’t love them. I’m working on socks and the knitting is much slower, but the gauge is very consistent, even at the turns. Mine are size 2.5mm. I might like them better at a larger gauge.
Ps. In the time I have knit one sock cuff, I’ve knit two sleeves on DP needles (size 4). And magic loop is not for me.
I have interchangeable needles (an old, original Knitpicks set and a newer Chiaogoo set). This lets me use the same tips for sleeves as for body when I knit a sweater. I have, in the past, had issues with gauge when I switched to dpns for the sleeves, so using the same tips eliminates one variable (it’s still possible, of course, that working with magic loop instead of just going around introduces tension differences).
I wanted to like FlexiFlips, but I really don’t. I don’t find them to be any improvement over using two circulars, which is my go-to method for all tubes, big or small. It’s just one more needle- and a loose one at that- to keep track of, and I also find them to be a little too short, which makes me nervous about losing stitches. The only thing I do like about them is the two different tips. That is a great idea!
I don’t knit sweaters, so the sleeve issue isn’t a problem for me. I do, however love the flexi-flips for knitting tiny things like mini stockings or mochi-mochi toys. I think they would be great for baby booties as well. I had been using two circular needles, because I just don’t like double points, but 20 or 30 fingering weight stitches divided on the flexi-flips makes these projects easier and faster. Yes, I did drop the third needle more than once, but everything requires a learning curve. I’m sold.
It’s magic loop all the way for me. Becaaaause…
Only need ONE needle in each size per project.
Knit ANY SIZE tube with a single needle.
Knit TWO sleeves, socks, gloves, pairs of anything at the same time. (trust me, this is a game changer).
Yes, tossing around the weight of a whole sweater while working top-down sleeves is an issue, but I think I have a solution:
Provisionally cast on both sleeves, magic loop them at the same time top down, then graft them to the body. TA Da! I’m betting that the ease of knitting the sleeves this way will make up for the extra grafting time.
I’ll let you know if I win that bet 😀
I love the flexi-flips. Not dissatisfied with DPNs, but they do get lost while traveling, and break, and stick things! Hate magic loop. Drives me crazy.
The Flips are super expensive, but worth it, in sizes often used.
I am devoted to DPNs, but you are correct – they aren’t very good for travel. I test-drove the FlexiFlips at my LYS and although I didn’t like them enough at the time to buy random sizes of them on the spot (which is something that would be just like me to do if I did love them!), I am thinking about getting a set to use on the sleeves of my Bottom Line. Thinking… not decided yet. But I definitely liked them better than Magic Loop or two circs.
I am currently in the middle of a pair of colorwork socks using the FlexiFlips. I like them. They allow some ‘breathing room’ but still secure the stitches and the option of a rounded or pointed tip is nice. As a side note, I really like doing sleeves like yours two-at-a-time using the Magic Loop method. Only once down the length and you’re done. Bonus, you know they are exactly the same.
I find them generally not as secure or as flexible as the 2-circs (my favorite!) method. They are better than DPN’s for large to medium stitch counts, but awkward for small counts like mitten thumbs, glove fingers and tops of top-down hats. DPN stalwarts will probably like them a lot, but for me, they did not add utility to my knitting tool archive.
PS: If you are thinking of adding something new to your needle store, have you tried the new PRYM ergonomic needles with the dished tips? Not currently carried in the US, I ordered a couple of sizes from Europe and loved how they handled some single-ply and some splitty-soft cashmere as well as some shetland.
I tried the Flexi-Flips for some baby leggings I was making. Size 1.5. I thought I would love them (I am usually a DPN person for small circumferences) but I didn’t. As others noted, they are a little too short for a typical sock round. I never drop a stitch with DPNs, but I repeatedly dropped stitches while trying to navigate the transition with the FFs. It was difficult to slide the stitches along so that the needles could be in the correct position for the change, and they do have to be in exactly the right orientation. I also had some trouble with the very short working needles, as they are hard on your hands. I will probably use them again at times, but I am glad to be back to my DPNs for the legwarmers I am currently knitting.
I’m intrigued by FlexiFlips and would definitely give them a try. Very clever idea and love that they also gave them two different points – rocket and turbo. I will buy some from you if you carry them. Thanks.
Dislike them except for the smallest sizes.
My opinion on the flexiflips is still under development. I was very excited when I first saw them and had to resist buying an entire set of all sizes and I nobly restrained myself to a single set of size 5s. My first attempt at using them was for a top down hat but they didn’t work well at all on the tiny number of stitches needed at the beginning. Your letter is encouraging me to haul them out again and give them a go on some sleeves. Of course this means needing to cast on an entire new sweater on size 5 needles for the sole purpose of this test.
I actually find two small circulars to be preferable. I knit continental and have trouble with metal needles, which I also find harder on my hands than wood or bamboo. Plus, these are VERY expensive.
i like the suggestion of flexiflips but they don’t come in the larger needle sizes. what about 9″ circulars?
Flexi Flips work wonderfully for small circumference circular objects. Right now I’m using mine to knit the 10 garter strips that (when joined) form Woolly Thoughts’ “Counting Pane” (see Ravelry). In my version, each strip is only 18 stitches wide. I’ve gotten such a good rhythm going with the Flexi-Flips that I have just a tiny pause at the end of each row before being able to turn and start the next. No sliding of stitches at all. Most efficient! Much faster than dpns would be and way, way faster than magic loop would be.
I used my #8s to finish off the sleeves of an adult-sized sweater. I recently used them to knit the entirety of a nb size onesie in the round. Can you tell I love them?
I prefer the 2 circular needles for sleeves. I use interchangeable needles, so I normally have any size I need. I put the current size needle on one end of each cord and then put one size smaller on the other end. This allows me to have almost any size pair I need. I just have to be sure I am knitting with the correct end of the needles. This has not been a problem for me. It also does not require buying any new needles.
I’m not a fan of magic loop either. Too fiddly for me. I have a pair of Flexiflips that I just bought a few weeks ago. They work okay. Not sure I like them as well as DPNs. Maybe once I’ve used them for a while I’ll like them more. I’ve used DPNs for years and they just seem more comfortable to me right now. As for loosing the DPNs, I have a needle holder designed specifically for DPNs that holds the needles and the work in progress so needles don’t slip out of stitches.
I love Addi FlexiFlips! Yes, stock them, please.
I have been using the metal flexi flips since they came out. I often knit small critters by Susan B Anderson and others, I love them. They are simpler than double points and easy to place in a holder shaped like a rectangle. The only caveat is when the directions on the pattern are specific to three double points. But even I can do that small amount of math. Divide by two instead of three.
I wonder if the sleeve is a larger sleeve if they would work as well. I haven’t tried that yet. When I do I will leave another comment.
The new flexi flips are out of wood or bamboo which sounds like a great solution when I am knitting with slippery yarn or when the gauge is deliberately looser. I think it would be a good idea for you to carry them.
Kay I learned to knit the two circular needles method from Ann during the knitting at the library days. When the Addi flips came out I got one set in a size I tend to use a lot for small circular things. I like them and I would probably add sizes to my needle stash if I found that I had a sweater sleeve thing going on or some other large project for long tubes. I think they would be a great addition to any shop. I never could get any kind of real comfort zone going with double pointed needles. I always had a ladder somewhere or dropped stitches off the end. Both the two circular and Addi flips solve that problem but give you flexibility.
Devil’s advocate here: This is simple. If you don’t like knitting sleeves, don’t knit them! There are zillions of patterns for sleeveless tops, ponchos, halters, bikini tops, even tube tops. Just think of the number of cute tube tops you could knit in the time it takes to knit one long-sleeved turtleneck!
Love the FlexiFlips- slowing have been collecting since they came out and have a nice roll case for them now available online. I find they mold nicely around my hands when I knit as opposed to getting poked with DPNs.
I have used flexiflips to knit small circular items but knitting sleeves sounds like a perfect use for them. I say go for it!
I haven’t tried the Addi Flips yet though the idea intrigues me. I wanted to share my hint for two circulars. Use two needles with different materials or colors! When the needles don’t match when they’re tip to tip, you know immediately that you’ve grabbed the wrong end.
I jumped right in and bought 3 pair of flexi flips. 2 in my usual sock size and one in my most used sleeve size. Sadly, I am not being a fan of them for either socks or sleeves. I can’t use them for my husband’s socks as there are too many stitches for the needles. Since he wears a size 16 shoe (72 stitch cast on) I figured that wasn’t fair to the needles so cast on a pair for my 3 year old grandson and they do much better with fewer stitches but now find they are hard on my fingers to manage the tiny length of needle. I have thumb issues sometimes and that tends to flair up if I use the flexi flips. I will be putting these away until I pass them on to a friend who wants to give them a try. I don’t mind dp’s or magic loop method but love to try all the shiny new gadgets and bought 3 pair based on a stellar review… I know, shouldn’t do that… I had the same fatigue issues with my hands using them for sleeves. I like to be able to grip something. If you are a lover of short needles, you may want to give them a try. As far as carrying them in your shop, I would wait to see if/how many people ask you to carry them so you aren’t stuck with a surplus of inventory if these turn out to be a passing fancy.
And just to throw my 2 cents in about sleeve Island, I have never minded the sleeves! You are almost done with your project by the time you get to the sleeves and if you have matched the right sort of needle to the yarn, you are in heaven, no matter what part of the sweater you are on. The first time I saw “sleeve island” I wondered what they might be talking about. Poor little sleeves, there is at least 1 knitter who loves you just as much as the rest of the garment. (:
I tried dpns and couldn’t get the hang of them, magic loop is ok but a bit of a pain having to adjust the cable all the time. I have short circulars as well that I do like using but they can be a bit tiring on the hands and fingers.I recently tried the Flexi needles, and after watching a video in YouTube finished a sleeve in no time. No sore hands, no laddering and no sewing up seams (my hand sewing is abysmal!]I guess now I could go and finish off a few WIPS that I put aside or cast on a new top down project….
Regarding the needles, I learned on DPNs for small circumferences before I knew of other methods so I’m comfortable with them. Then tried magic loop and like it as well. Tried two circs, but not crazy about that one. Haven’t felt a need to try flexiflips.
Now, as has been mentioned it sounds as if you’re headed to pick up Ann and swing on down to Alabama Chanin. What’s going on??? So mysterious of you to just drop “on a drive to Florence” like that! I can never get too much Alabama Chanin. Come on…what gives?
Your Bottom Line is looking so good…love that color shift. It will be great this fall.
Kay, yesterday, I was at a Knit study group at our guild( much more serious sounding than all the hilarity we have). One knitter was in your same quandary and her solution has merit….use 4 flexitips instead of 3…easier to keep the stitches on the needles. I tried them once ( in the regular configuration) and found it very awkward. Mary in Cincinnati
I love the flexiflips. I have used them both for sleeves and mittens and nary a lost needle. I have the unenviable experience of crawling around the floor between tired peoples feet, on the Long Island RR, chasing a precious to me DPN. Also Lost one on a Boeing 757 in December. Mike says he will keep an eye out for it if it ever comes into the JFK hangar. So far no luck. It does take a bit to get used to the way they feel but they are more managable than the cables of magic loop. I have invested in larger bamboo sizes as well as the smaller ones. ( my collection of needles is museum worthy- it is indeed the small things in life.) I would say yes to having them in the shop.
A technique that works pretty well for me is to use 2 Circular needles, but not dividing the sleeve over the 2 sets of needles. Instead, I knit all the stitches onto one circ, then I knit them off the first and onto the second circ, alternating back and forth, which coincides with the end of round. This avoids ladders, and requires minimal time moving stitches around.
Another technique that works well for me is to use a large plastic salad bowl to contain the entire sweater, with the armhole for the sleeve I’m working on top. I’m then able to just spin the bowl in my lap as I work around the sleeve – nothing is flopping around and it takes almost no time to adjust your work. This also keeps the weight of the sweater off your lap if it’s too warm.
These 2 things have really helped me when I’m marooned on sleeve island!
I bought some flexi-flips but haven’t used them enough to have an opinion yet. I love my dpns for socks, and for sleeves and hats I use the travelling loop method, which I think a number of other commenters have mentioned. I HATE magic loop for all it’s figity rejigging of the needles and travelling just uses one long needle and only requires you to adjust the needles at the beginning of every row.
Can’t stand the flips. I knit english lever and there isn’t enough straight needle to get a grip on. Sticking to magic loop for now.
Wow Kay; when you ask for comments/opinions you certainly get a response!!!
I’ve tried many different ways to knit small circumferences – and have decided that, while it’s not perfect, and it’s sometimes annoying, that DPN’s are the way to go for me.
However, even though I was intrigued by the FlexiFlips when I saw them in my LYS, the price ($24-$32) was a definite deterrent. After collecting all the sizes and types of DPN’s I could possibly need over the last 20 years I can’t see spending hundreds of dollars to basically replace my DPN needles. That money is better spent on yarn, IMHO. 😉
I love the Addi flexi flips. I’ve used them several time with less trouble than double point traditional or using magic loop.
You’ll love them.
I have used Flexiflips- I agree with an earlier comment that they are just slightly too short in the cable- I do like them better than DPNs- I’m ok with magic loop but I feel like there’s stress on stitches at the loop end.
I have used the flexiflips for socks but find that 3 needles aren’t enough to hold the gusset stitches. But for a sleeve they might be a good option. I usually knit the sleeve before the sweater body so not much schlepping of the sweater.
For me, Flexis are only good for closing the top of a hat. I really like them for that. I tried knitting the whole hat with them & lost stitches so many times I might have uttered curse words! 2 circs, 2 at a time is my preferred way for socks. Only way I’ll go!
Liked the Flexi-Flips when I finished off a pair of socks with them. Did manage to mislay one but only temporarily (if you’ve tried them you know where the knitting was).
Really, really don’t like knitting with 4 or 5 double points; always, always lose at least one needle, get ladders, lose stitches on at least one needle…
Like 2 circulars very much (never made socks till Cat Bordhi’s book) and sometimes get the rhythm, like magic loop but rarely get rhythm.
I think Flexi-Flips might just fill a gap.
I love my Chiaogoo Twist Interchangeable Short Combos. At the moment they go from 1.5mm to 3.25mm (US 000 to 3) with total length of 13cm/5-in to 20cm/8-in but in June (at least in the UK) they will be launching sizes 3.5-8mm/US 4-8. There is no jog in the join from tip to cable, unlike some other brands, so no hiccups even when using lightweight yarn. I feel I should use DPNs more, but do find them much harder to manipulate and cannot eliminate the dreaded ladders.
I developed wrist problems after too enthusiastic a bout with 12 and 16-inch needles (all that curving), so Magic Loop is the only way to go for me. After a couple of less than joyous projects with ML I found a rhythm with a combination of an easy-to-knit Cascade 220 yarn, a simple stockinette pattern and MUSIC! I felt like I was soaring with this combo and the resulting finished product (a pair of toddler leg-warmers) came out beautifully with perfect, even tension. Not all projects are that easy but it has given me a groove to strive for and I do like living in that “zone”.
I can’t wait to see how they work!
I tried the flexitips but was VERY disappointed by the rough joins between cable and needle in the smallest sizes so Ive gone back to DPNs as for me, they provide the most rhythmic and easily adjustable of knitting experiences. That said, I have to remind myself that keeping track of the needles is great mindfulness practise. The sharp tips help drive this point home :).
Also, sadly, the high price for low quality seemed poor form in my opinion.
12″ circulars for LIFE. I will never knit sleeves any other way again.
I have a friend who purchased the Addi Flexi-Flips and our knit group all tried them. We all liked the way they worked as far as the knitting process, but we did not like that one tip is pointy and the other tip is more rounded. Our preference would be to have both tips the same, in my case I like a more pointy tip. That was our observation. I am choosing not to purchase them as I am perfectly comfortable using the Magic Loop method.
As an addition to my previous post. I have unknowingly lost one of the double points in the living room chair and then when I sat down again, I was impaled by said double point needle right through my jeans into my upper thigh causing a visit to the doctor for antibiotics. I think I’ll stay away from using double points for a while☺️
The flips don’t work for those of us with big hands. I’m a two circular person, and in fact have two sets of interchangeable needles for just this reason. I don’t get the problem with yanking the sweater back and forth – as soon as the sleeves have some length built up, you just flip them back and forth, and leave the rest of the sweater where it is, on your lap. The more vexing problem is gauge – I often have to go back and use a larger needle size, after examining the sleeve in progress.
Love the Flexiflips so much I bought them in all the sizes. I can knit much faster than with regular DPN’s.
I jumped on the flexi flips bandwagon, and jumped right off rather sharpish. I tried both socks and a hat with them, and found that they just don’t work for my knitting style. I prefer either DPNs or my 12 inch Addis. The flexi flips will be found on a for sale board on ravelry soon. Unfortunately the store i bought these at does not take needle returns 🙁
I saw the Flexi Flips last summer at the Black Sheep Gathering in Eugene, OR. I would have liked to try them in a size 3, but size 2 was the closest size available, so I got that. Though I’ve had them for months, I just happened to take them out for a spin recently. (I want to knit the Rose Window hat pattern by Jolene Vretenar from the Fall 2017 Knitty issue.) I will say first of all (and again!) that I am a very loose knitter and was swatching with worsted weight, so the pointy/non-pointy tip difference wasn’t an issue for me. To me, they it felt like a cross between knitting with a 12 inch circ and knitting with two circulars. Neither of those is my favorite method, and, at least in the beginning, the Flexi Flips felt tight and awkward. I’m not sold on them so far, but will knit more before making a final judgement. For now, I’ll stick with dpns for fiddly bits of things like sock toes or afterthought heels. For long stockinette stretches of small circumference knitting, magic loop.
I’ve tried Hiya Hiya Flyers (their version of FlexiFlips) and I liked them. But then again, I like working with DPNs, and I also like magic loop. I like knitting sleeves as well as the sweater body. Lest you think I just like everything, I don’t like the 2 circs method as much, for how it tugs at the fabric. I am glad that there are now so many ways for us to do these things that everyone can find tools that fit their style.
I have only knit socks on Flexi Flips but I love everything about them but the price. I am a loose, arthritic Knitter who has trouble knitting fine gauges, but Flexi flips made it much easier. I hate top down sleeves because knitting a small circumference with the added weight of the entire sweater is slow and uncomfortable, so your other option is to knit them bottom up and graft.
My truly wonderful friend & sometime knitting buddy (when she’s in town) brought me a set of these Addis three years ago. Addi had released the needles in Germany prior to introducing them in the States. To give them a fair trial, I’ve knit 3 pair of socks (sock weight twice, worsted wt. once for hiking socks) and one sleeve with them.. My fingers & hands tended to cramp 15 minutes in. I tried adjusting my grip & cradling the needles in my fingers & got wild variations on stitch tension. My kniiterly friend likes them; I found them too small to hang on to.
I went back to my DPNs. I’m no fan of Magic Loop – too fiddly. I can blaze away with 3 or 4 DPNs with only the rare #$%#$#!
Tried ‘em. Didn’t like ‘em. The amount of “flexi” in the short nylon cable section isn’t much at all. Yes, it bends, but it doesn’t want to. As you knit, you can sense the metal points pulling apart, the needle trying to return to being straight, not “flexed.” My 2¢.
I usually start my sleeves with the Magic Loop, but when the stitches decrease, I am now using Flexi-flips. A perfect solution for me….I despise DPNs in all forms/uses and the bend in the Flexis keeps the stitches on the needle, instead of slipping off as they did constantly with DPNs. (But just like DPNs, you can’t crowd stitches on Flexis or they will slip off. So they work best with smaller circumferences.)
I bought the Addi FlexiFlips thinking they would be the answer to starting a center cast on. It is not the answer! I have tried with 12 stitches 6 times, and still don’t have it. I know I am not well coordinated, but……
Ah, the ole flexi flips. I’ll say that I’m an Addi girl, all the way. I have a full interchangeable set of rockets, a full set of olivewoods, and about 27 million of each size and each length known to man, because who can keep track of this stuff!? (Ravelry can, I know, shame me for being unorganized and winging it!) But those flexi flips. WHY DOES ONE END HAVE TO BE DULL??? (Skacel, I’m yelling at you…) For the love of needles, imagine if someone wanted one needle to have consistent tips. Just imagine. Truly, the flexi flips drive me crazy for that reason. I wanted to love them. I tried the Hiya Hiya version, I think they are called flyers. Both tips are sharp and consistent, and that brought a sweet smile to my face. But I still never felt like I had a good grip on them, and I think they changed my gauge because of that. I’ve found peace with DPN’s and that’s my go to. Magic loop is fine too. I haven’t tried the tiny 9/12” circulars, I’ve heard good things but dang, they look fiddly and probably would have the same problem as the flexi flips in terms of a weird grip/gauge issues. So that was a long winded way of saying “there’s no perfect way and we’re all just going to have to suffer through it.” Ultimately, I would urge Skacel to make the flexi flips less flip and more consistent by putting the sharp tip on all ends. Until then, stock the hiya hiyas!
I know this is all about knitting but I have to tell you that the fabric on that throw pillow is fab!
I have a couple of sets of FlexiFlips and I love the concept– magic loop knitting with no annoying loop to contend with! But these needles drive me bonkers because one side is blunt and the other is sharp. You have to *think* every time you finish up on a needle and put it back into work to make sure you have the tip that’s working for your project. And when making a heel flap sock with them, I end up having to use the blunt tip as I work the short rows for the heel, which can be a real pain at that small a gauge. I recently found that Hiya Hiya has sets of three needles with the same concept called Flyers and I *much* prefer them. Both tips are the same so no thinking about how I’ve flipped it around and always the right tip when I have to work back and forth a bit.
I’m just trying Flexi-Flips in 2.25 for socks, and I’m not ready to pronounce, except to note that they are very expensive. I recently finished the sleeves on my Humulus sweater, using Prym ergonomic dpns. They are light colored, a bit longer than most, with sculpted shaft and slightly bulbous tips, all features that make a big difference. The sleeves look great and went fast. I would order more of those. They are not available locally, and the price is reasonable.
I tried the FlexiFlips for a pair of socks and found I could not knit a proper toe cap with them, but as long as it was the center of the foot or leg, they were ok. I have long fingers and the needles didn’t feel right in my hands. I use two ChiaoGoo circular needles and not the shorter ones. I have room to work and almost no tension on the switch from one side of the sock to the other. I’m with Wendy Johnson on this subject, so no surprise as I use her Basic Slip Stitch Heel toe up sock pattern with wild patterned yarn almost exclusively. I tried different types of needles and methods early on, but this one is perfect for my hands and knitting style.
I just use very short circulars and so far I haven’t had a problem I did just get (myself) the ChiaGoo Twist Shorties, so now I have no excuse to not have the right size needles.
I got super excited about the flexi flips and ordered 2 pairs but I find them hard to hold and they keep stabbing my palms. Now I’m enjoying DPNs a lot more!
Sleeve island made me smile, I too need little persuasion to start a shiny new project. I can’t love dpn’s of any description, it may be because numerous hand surgeries for unstable joints affect my dexterity but just not for me. I’ve no problem with magic loop other than it’s a faff. Currently my favourite is to use Lykke short tip 400mm and as a rule these will take me through the cuff. Incidentally for some reason I’m finding Lykke ( no affiliation ) the most comfortable to use out of my many many needles with my temperamental hands- no idea why.
Absolutely despise knitting small circumference tubes. I would much rather seam than futz. So for sleeves, I add a couple of selvedge stitches and just knit them flat. Sometimes, if they involve complicated colorwork, I will then knit conjoined sleeves: two at a time connected by steeks to be cut apart and seamed later before adding them to the body of the sweater.
My hat’s truly off (with envy) for those who are able to work these little things in the round. Bless ’em.
Only Magic Loop for me. Hate double points.
Another option for sleeves, especially since I like to knit both at the same time: two circs as you would for knitting two socks at the same time on 2 circs. The circs end up being straight and parallet to each other at the end of each round. Still lots of yarn repositioning, but somehow less annoying to me than doing a single sleeve (or sock) on two circs.
Great article I am a Dpn lover. Other methods are ok…but dpns are fast for me. I put hair elastics at both ends od the needles to keep work and occasionally I pull the wrong needle. There are not tons of stitches to pick up and it doesnt happen often. The flexi flips would be great if the needle was just a touch longer. They dont hit the right spot on 5he outside of my hand….
Re: Flexi-flips
I’ve acquired a few sets, and have used them occasionally. They are useful but I remain lukewarm. I don’t appreciate the alternative tips; a nuisance to check each time I change needles. I prefer consistency. The concept is worth pursuing, however, and I have an eye open for a Hiya Hiya version that I believe is out there somewhere.
I have been trying every type of needle for small circs. I just set up an experiment with sleeves using Flexi flips on one sleeve and Chiaogoo 10 inch circs on the other. Both seem great but I think the 10 inch are more convenient. And I kept dropping stitches with the flexiflips. I feel like Patty Lyons would not approve because my gauge is slightly different but oh well. In the middle of this experiment, I found out Addi has a new 10 inch that has a short tip on one side and a longer tip on the other! And for those of you who like the smaller circs, Chiagoo is coming out with an interchangeable set for sizes 3-8 with small circumference cables in June!
Oh forgot to mention. I think I saw bamboo flexi flips
I have to say I’m still a big fan of magic loop so I can do my two sleeves at the same time, a little fussy to start but then at the end BOTH sleeves are done. If I had to knit a long sleeve then face another one I would most likely cry. Also if I make a mistake on one sleeve I’ll be making it on both and then its symmetrical so it becomes a design feature.