My mom sent me a couple sets of square knitting needles that are suppose to be easier on the hands than the regular round type. I have seen square needles before, but never thought to use them. Square just seems wrong. But if they are indeed easier on the hands, than they deserve a fair shake.
I replaced the needles from my current sock and knit a couple of rounds. They really are easier to hold. I find that I do not grip them as tightly as regular needles and at the end of the day my hands did not hurt any more than usual. So I tried them again the next day, 2 more rounds, and everything was fine. I plan to give them a good 15 minutes this weekend and see how it goes.
A close look at the stitches shows that my gauge is the same with the square needles.
The needles have very pointy tips, I love pointy tips, and are made in the USA, I love made in the USA. The only drawback I can find, is that the name and needle size are etched into the side and that catches on the yarn a bit. Not a big deal with sock yarn, but may present a problem with lace weights. My lace weight days are over, but something to think about if yours are not.
So far I really like them and I am looking forward to using them for longer periods of time. Thank you mom!!!
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That's great! I really need to try these as a preventive measure - noticed last night that I grip my left needle tightly, and for no real reason.
Posted by: Toby | February 13, 2013 at 11:42 AM
I can't believe I didn't think to mention square needles. I changed to square because I'm a loose knitter. I was tired of going down two sizes to get gauge. And I've noticed that my wrist doesn't get sore or tired unless I knit for a really long time. I have repetitive stress injuries in one wrist. I hope they continue to work for you.
Posted by: Gwyneth | February 13, 2013 at 12:14 PM
That'd be so awesome if it meant you could knit for a bit!!
Posted by: Anne | February 13, 2013 at 12:32 PM
Holding my breath for you that these let you back to the knitting world!
Posted by: kate | February 14, 2013 at 08:15 AM
YIPPEE!. So glad they may allow you to get back to some knitting. I may order some for myself now that we have the Dandelion Seal of Approval.
Posted by: Sonja Kosler | February 14, 2013 at 08:42 AM