Forget your basic needles and stitch markers—welcome to the wild, wacky world of knitting gadgets that are as quirky as your great aunt Edna. These uncommon tools can turn your knitting and crocheting from a cozy hobby into a full-blown circus act. You might not have met some of these clever little fibre friends yet, but trust me, they’re all worth a whirl. Some are new(ish) and novel, while others are classic relics that have stood the test of time. Without further ado, here are 10 uncommon fibre accessories you didn't know you needed. Grab your notion bags and let’s see how many of these oddities are already part of your toolkit—bonus points if you actually use them!
1. Nøstepinne
Often the simplest things are the best, and the same can be said about the nøstepinne. A Scandinavian word literally meaning "yarn ball stick", a nøstepinne is like the hipster’s answer to a yarn winder—a simple stick that lets you wind a ball of yarn by hand, with a touch of old-world charm. Sure, you could go for the electric winder, but where’s the romance in that? With a nøstepinne, you get a perfectly squishable center-pull ball while feeling like a yarn-wielding wizard from centuries past.
2. Finger Yarn Guide Ring
A yarn guide ring is like a traffic controller for your yarn, helping you keep proper tension as you knit or crochet. Slip this cute piece of yarn jewellery on your less dominant finger, and suddenly your yarn behaves, allowing you to work not only smoother but faster too!
3. Yarn Butler
A yarn butler is the fancy assistant you never knew you needed and one your yarn deserves. Imagine it as a tiny, yarn-loving valet, holding your ball of yarn and preventing it from rolling away like it’s trying to escape to the land of lost stitch markers. With a yarn butler rotating by your side, you can focus on the more important things—like deciding which cozy Netflix show to binge next!
4. Cable Cords
Say goodbye to frustrating scrap yarn and hello to these colourful hollow cables. These are your new stitch-holding superheroes! Easy to use, simply press the open end of the cable on to the tip of your knitting needle, gently slip your rebellious stitches onto the cable, and watch them behave until you're ready to get back to them. No more juggling multiple pieces of scrap yarn and risking a stitch escape when trying to put them back on; these colourful cords ensure your project stays organized and under control—because let’s be honest, your stitches can’t be trusted to stay in line on their own!
5. Blocking Board
A blocking board is like a yoga mat for your knitting and crochet projects—it helps them stretch, relax, and find their inner peace. After giving your creation a little spa treatment (aka a wash), you pin it down on the board, coaxing it into its best shape. It’s perfect for straightening those rebellious stitches and opening up lacy designs, turning your wobbly masterpiece into a polished FO. With its handy grid, the blocking board ensures your project dries in perfect form—no more wonky edges, just zen-like precision!
6. Darning Eggs
A darning egg is the unsung hero of mending—slip it inside your sock or sweater, and suddenly that pesky hole behaves itself, stretching neatly over the smooth, egg-shaped surface. Made of wood, glass, or plastic, it gives you a sturdy base to work on, so you’re not wrestling with fabric while you sew. It’s a simple, old-school tool, helping you extend the life of your favourite socks with a little charm. Pro tip-you might have just as much luck using a lightbulb!
7. Norwegian Knitting Thimble
The Norwegian knitting thimble, or "strikkefinger," is like a secret weapon for knitters tackling the wild world of colour work and intricate patterns! Slip it on your finger, and you’ll feel like a Viking warrior ready to conquer any project that dares cross your path. Not only does it protect your finger from the perils of overzealous knitting, but it also helps keep your multiple strands of yarn separated and organized with its several hooks—Plus, with its roots in Norwegian craftsmanship, this thimble adds a touch of heritage to your work, all while making you look like a fibre pro!
8. Portuguese Knitting Pin
A Portuguese knitting pin is like having a little knitting assistant that hangs around your neck, ready to help you unleash your inner knitting ninja! With this clever little gadget, you can wrap your yarn around your needle with a flick of your wrist, making it look like you’ve got some secret knitting sorcery going on. Forget about uneven tension—this pin is here to save the day and your sanity, all while making you look like the coolest knitter in the room.
9. Square Knitting Needles
Square knitting needles are like the rebellious teenagers of the knitting world, shaking things up and refusing to conform to the round needle norm. With their flat edges, they give your yarn a firm grip, making it harder for those slippery stitches to escape and run off. Knitters often find that square needles help create more even stitches, as they guide the yarn with the precision of a drill sergeant. Plus, they’re perfect for those long knitting marathons—no more aching hands! So, if you’re looking to add a little personality to your knitting, grab a set of square needles and strut your stuff with flair!
10. Rope Wool Eye Needles
We love these rope wool eye needles (also known as tapestry needles and bodkins)! These specialized sewing needles are designed specifically for working with thick yarns and ropes, making them ideal for projects like macramé, heavy knitting, or crafting with bulky fibres. These needles feature a larger, oval-shaped eye that can accommodate multiple strands of yarn or thicker materials, allowing you to thread them easily without struggling. Whether you’re finishing a chunky blanket or weaving in ends on a heavy scarf, these needles are your go-to for tackling those more substantial projects without frustration!
Well, that's a wrap on our exploration of the wonderfully weird world of uncommon knitting and crochet accessories but this list is by no means exhaustive. Although we are sure there are many more quirky gadgets, this list is a nice reminder that every project deserves a sprinkle of the unexpected. Whether you’re wielding a knitting thimble that makes you feel like a Viking warrior or channeling your inner magician with a Portuguese knitting pin, these tools are here to make your fibre adventures not only productive but entertaining too. So go ahead, embrace the eccentricity, and let your fibre notions be as fabulous as you are—because in the end, knitting and crochet should always be a little silly and a whole lot of fun!
How about you, what is your favourite unconventional gizmo? Please share in the comments below!!
Happy making!
Mélanie
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