The Honeycomb vest requires this size and I'm using my bamboo circ which you'd think would be great. But it's not. The bamboo sticks to the wool too much. And the plastic cord tying the needles together is more like a tube. And that's sticky, too. Ooh! It's so frustrating sometimes having to stop and actually push the stitches along with two hands. The bamboos were one of those 'bargains' and have not been the greatest purchase. I use 4.5 and 5 a lot and the plastic tubes eventually cracked at the join and were unuseable. Y'all know about those deals that are too good to be true.
I used to have a huge jumble of all sorts of circs. It seemed silly to have a huge stash and when the daughters all began to knit I shared them out. When I got my bamboos - in every size - I stupidly figured I didn't need so many others and did another giveaway. I still seem to have a lot...the jumble is semi-organized now.
So, I've been using my old ones - some bought in the 60's. I don't think about how old they are very often - that was scary! However, I have been more and more realizing that except for socks - I really don't care for the bamboos. Mostly I think it's the connector cord. As I've been searching for a replacement, I've been noticing that all the cords are thicker even on good quality bamboo. It's annoying. It's even more annoying that I can't find the right size.
This vest could be a quicker knit. With this pattern and the constant cabling monotony, I really don't want any other slowdown factor. I actually like the cabling. I think the worker can blame her tools now and then. I plan to keep looking. Going to a new yarn shop tomorrow. Fingers crossed.
You should give the Addi-Turbos a try. I have one in a "hat" size and I love them. Any excuse to use them and I do.
ReplyDeleteI get what you mean, Stephanie, I could never get those bamboo ones.
ReplyDeleteI use (more accurately used to use!)I changed to a set of 4 needles wothout bobs at the end- they worked much better for me.
How exciting to be visiting a new wool store- thyey all closed down here years ago, but maybe they'll open again.
Our President Mary Mc Aleese is a great knitter!
Paws - I have a 'hat' Addi-Turbo, too. That's funny! I'm not sure they're worth the extra cost, though.
ReplyDeleteMimi - I do use bamboos for my socks and would never give them up.
I did notice that there wasn't a lot of opportunity to spend my money on yarn while in Ireland. Maybe we should start something? Petition the president?
You could try Knit Picks Options. I've heard rave reviews. You can even buy the needle & cord individually without buying the whole set. - Unfortuantly you would have to be patient & wait for them to ship, but I can check my stash for you too.
ReplyDeleteI checked my circular needles, but I don't have that size either. Otherwise, I would have loaned it to you. I have only 1 pair of bamboo needles, and I still haven't gotten used to them. My favourite needles are still the good old clicky clacky metal ones. Best of luck with your search.
ReplyDeleteI'll look at my favorites and give you some brand names but I've only been knitting for 5 years so it's hard to say how durable they are. Good luck--I know I'm not a big fan of addi-turbos although they are practically revered by some.
ReplyDeleteYou are all so generous...thank you.
ReplyDeleteDeb - I've looked at Knit Picks before and their interchangeables start at size 4 which is perfect. Denise also makes some that others rate highly.
Rose - I would just like a different needle at the moment. I'm not that obsessive about any brand really. Reviews would be welcome though. There's still a couple of other stores here I can visit. My big trip tomorrow was postponed 'til next week.
Meanwhile, me and the bamboo plod on.
Knit pick options are a good choice but have some issues with the cable disconnecting from the metal clasp. The needles are pointy and overall, I like them. I don't use my bamboo circs at all anymore. THe interchangeable addis do not have pointy tips--that was a huge disappointment and I didn't buy them. I have more addis than I can shake a stick at, and I swear by them. Addi Lace Turbos are a dream for the work I do. I also love my new Kollage square dpns. They're pointy and sturdy.
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