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So, you've mastered the straight needles. Maybe you've even tackled circular ones. And now? You've stumbled across a pattern that boldly demands the use of DPNs. Cue the dramatic music. Double pointed needles (or DPNs, as we like to call them) have a bit of a reputation. Some knitters treat them like mythic weapons. Others just...avoid them entirely. But here’s the secret: they’re not actually scary. In fact, once you get the hang of it, DPN knitting can be smooth, satisfying, and even (dare we say it?) enjoyable.
Let’s take a look at what these pointy little sticks are all about, why they exist in the first place, and how you can start wielding them like a pro.
Double pointed needles are knitting needles with points on both ends. That means there’s no clear "start" or "end" to them, which allows you to knit in the round on a small circumference without any loops or joins. Think socks, mittens, the top of a hat - anything too tight for circular needles.
Usually, they come in sets of four or five. You knit across three or four of them, while one acts as your working needle. And yes, it can look a bit like wrestling a hedgehog at first, but it settles down with practice.
DPNs shine when your project’s circumference is too small for circular needles. Sure, you could use magic loop or two circulars, but DPNs often give a neater finish, especially for things like glove fingers or sock heels.
We think they’re ideal for:
In short? DPNs are a tool worth having in your arsenal. Especially if you want to tackle patterns with finesse.
First things first: match your needle size to your yarn. Sounds obvious, but we’ve all been there, reaching for the prettiest pair instead of the right size. The yarn label (or pattern) will usually give you a recommended size - follow that for best results.
Wooden DPNs are great for beginners. They grip the yarn better and are less likely to slide out mid-stitch (the dreaded drop!). Metal needles, on the other hand, are slick and fast - great once you’re confident. Plastic is somewhere in between but tends to be less durable over time.
Some knitters swear by bamboo. Others love steel. It’s personal. Try a few and see what suits your style.
Standard sets include four or five needles. Four is fine for most things, but five gives a more even distribution of stitches. Again, try both. There’s no single "right" way - just what works for you.
Cast on all your stitches onto one needle. Once that’s done, divide them evenly across three or four needles by slipping stitches from one to another. Keep your working yarn on the needle to your right.
(Pro tip: Use stitch markers at the beginning of the round so you don’t lose track. It happens.)
Ah, the twist. The silent saboteur of many a DPN project.
Before you join your round, double-check that all your stitches are facing the same way. Give them a little nudge so the cast-on edge forms a neat ring. Only then should you start knitting.
(And yes, you’ll only make that mistake once. We promise.)
The first couple of rounds feel awkward. That’s normal. You're juggling multiple needles that seem to have minds of their own. But keep at it.
Hold the two needles you’re working with like regular straight needles. Let the others dangle a bit - they’ll behave once more stitches are added.
Rotate! As you complete a needle, move on to the next. The free needle becomes your new working needle. Over time, it becomes second nature. Like muscle memory for knitters.
Try not to overthink it. The rhythm will come.
Ladders (those loose stitches where one needle ends and the next begins) are the most common issue. To fix it, pull the first two stitches of each new needle a bit tighter. Not too tight, mind you - just enough to close the gap.
Dropped a stitch? Use a crochet hook or your needle tip to pick it back up. Deep breaths. It’s not the end of the world.
Once you're comfortable, you can start exploring tricks to make things even smoother. For instance, try knitting the last stitch from one needle and the first from the next using the same needle - it helps tighten joins.
Or switch to DPNs mid-project when your circular needle becomes too long. It gives you flexibility without fussing with other methods.
Want more guidance? You can always see our range of knitting kits for inspiration and tools to level up your craft. And if you're curious about all your options, check out our guide to learn the different types of needles for knitting.
DPNs aren’t some mythical challenge reserved for elite knitters. They’re just another way of making loops with sticks. A clever one, yes - but still just sticks and yarn.
With a bit of patience, a pinch of humour, and maybe a few restarts, DPN knitting can open the door to projects you never thought possible. Socks, gloves, tiny hats for the cat (okay, maybe not that last one).
In any case, welcome to the world of DPNs. You’ve got this!
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