STRAIGHT NEEDLES ... are used when working back and forth in rows. They
come in lengths of 10, 12, and 14 inches and sizes O-1-2-3, etc. The
larger the number, the thicker the needle.
DOUBLE POINTED NEEDLES ... come in sets of 4 or 5. They are used for
socks, mittens and any articles made in rounds.
CIRCULAR NEEDLES ... are used in making skirts, or parts of garments
when a seam is not desired; also in completing a large doily or a round
tablecloth.
Directions give the size and type needle required and it is not
advisable to change the size unless it is necessary in order to obtain
the correct gauge.
CABLE NEEDLES ... are short with a bend in the center to hold sts from
slipping off. They are available in thin or thick size for the different
yarns. A short double pointed needle may also be used. It is a good idea
after placing sts on the straight needle to be used for cable to stick
needle into garment slightly, this will prevent sts from slipping off
needle.
STITCH HOLDERS ... are used to hold sts to be used later. Example: sts
at back of neck or when all sts are cast on and worked to armholes, then
divided for front and back. The stitch holders can be purchased or a
safety pin or length of yarn may be used.
STITCH COUNTERS ... usually placed on knitting needles. They have a dial
and after working a row, turn the dial to the next number.
BOBBINS ... usually made of plastic to hold small amounts of yarn for
use in making argyle socks or the Fair Isle, Scandinavian or Ski
patterns.
GAUGE ... The stitch gauge which appears at the beginning of all
instructions is most important to the size and fit of your garment.
Before starting, make a sample swatch of the pattern stitch with the
needles and yarn specified. If you have MORE sts than gauge use LARGER
needles. If you have LESS sts than gauge use SMALLER needles. Check your
gauge as you progress to assure a perfectly sized garment, Ill. No. 1.
[Illustration: 1]