buying knitting needles at the thrift store

**RaineyDaye** · 11-20-2008, 10:32 AM

I want to learn to knit, but want to keep the initial cost down until I am sure I will stick with it. I know I have seen knitting needles at the thrift store, but I haven't really paid attention to the prices. For you experienced knitters and crocheters, what kind of needles should I look for, and what would be a good price?

**madhen** · 11-20-2008, 10:45 AM

It depends a lot on what you want to knit. Sizes 6-8 are typically used the most, but if you wanted to do baby stuff, you'd be looking at smaller sizes, and many patterns require larger sizes. I like circular needles and dpn's, but again, that is because of what I like to knit (caps, socks, scarves, things with sleeves that need to be joined - i.e, circular knitting).

**Lady_V** · 11-20-2008, 10:47 AM

depending on the store and the type, needles (where I live) range from $2 to $12.

I have bought needles at the thrift store before (when I first started) and paid .25-.75/pair

If you know what you want to make, you will have a better idea of what type/size you want.

The 'learn to knit' books that come with needles are a size 8 I think.

I use metal or bamboo... I have plastic, but not very fond of them unless I need something a bit flexable. I love my circulars because I can do a bigger/longer piece and not have to worry about my needles being too short.

**madhen** · 11-20-2008, 11:00 AM

The bulk of my needles are Clover brand - GREAT needles. I do have some metal circulars, though.

**misscas** · 11-20-2008, 03:53 PM

Walmart has a small craft section now. They carry knitting needles and a small supply of different yards pretty reasonable compared to the hobby store in my city.

**nandmsmom** · 11-20-2008, 05:07 PM

I would love to find needles at the thrift store, but I tend to be rather picky. I really only like to work with the bamboo needles and I doubt they would be found there. Most of my needles have been purchased at AC Moore or Michaels with 50% off coupons.

**madhen** · 11-20-2008, 05:22 PM

If you like to browse eBay, they often have "lots" of bamboo knitting needles for auction. I bought one "lot" with 60+ needles, crochet hooks, stitch markers, etc, many moons ago, and I've never had to buy any since.

**Early Bird** · 11-21-2008, 11:45 PM

What is the first thing that you want to make?

If something like a scarf in worsted wool, then Madhen is right on target.

And you can use circulars for most (if not all) straight knitting.