Sometimes you will need to switch needle sizes while working with double point needles (DPNs). This is usually done to adjust the tension in your knitting. Switching your needle sizes between sections of knitting can help you ensure different patterns match in gauge. When working with double point needles, you will change the needle in your right hand and use it to work the live stitches off the original sized needles.
Below you will find both video and written guides to help you learn how to switch needle sizes on double point needles.
Video Guide: How to Switch Needle Sizes on DPNs
Written Guide: How to Switch Needle Sizes on DPNs
Switch DPN Sizes, Step 1:
Work up to the point where the pattern instructs you to switch needle sizes, then set the needle in your right hand aside.
Switch DPN Sizes, Step 2:
Pick up a needle in the new size with your right hand.
Switch DPN Sizes, Step 3:
Begin working the live stitches off the old needle size and onto the new needle size.
Switch DPN Sizes, Step 4:
When you have finished working the live stitches off the first DPN (your first left-hand needle in the old size), it will be free of the project.
Switch DPN Sizes, Step 5:
Set the old DPN aside. Pick up a DPN in the new size with your right hand and work the live stitches off the second old-sized DPN.
Switch DPN Sizes, Step 6:
Continue moving live stitches off the old sized DPNs in your left hand and onto the new sized DPN in your right hand. When all the live stitches have been moved onto the larger DPNs, set the last old sized needle aside. Replace it with a new sized needle in your right hand. You have now completely switched knitting needle sizes.
Practice With My Knitting Patterns
Or, try making Leg Warmers. You will use one size needle for the ribbing and another for the smooth section of the leg warmer. Find the pattern here.
To take your stitches off your double point needles, you will want to know how to bind off in the round on DPNs. Learn how in the next lesson.
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