Last year I saw a similar list and what fascinated me the most was the idea of giving someone special washing soaps such as Soak or Eucalan. They are not the cheapest, they have different scents and, most importantly, they will definitely find a use. The idea may seem basic, but I would love a gift like this (istead of strange gadgets or random patterns).
That's an awesome idea. I 100% agree, the good stuff isn't cheap. And I always think with gift giving, you should aim to buy someone something they wouldn't justify buying for themselves. So expensive luxurious detergent would be awesome. I'd be so happy to receive something like that
Flexi Flips are much faster than magic loop- especially for socks. It is actually a great gift, especially for sock knitters, because those needles can run $30/ set.
Good to know! I never knit socks so definitely not familiar. I wish I could make dpnS work but so far, no success. So I plod along slowly with my magic loop
agreed! In Europe they're going as "Crasy Trio" I think and I absolutely love them for sleeves and socks as I hate magic loop with a passion xD I'd even rather use 2 fixed circulars than magic loop
Once I tried the flexiflips I fell in love! I didn’t really like the magic loop method. I still use straight dpns for some knitting. I made my first pair of socks with flexiflips and it was brilliant!
My one and only dpn experience was such a disaster that I defaulted straight back to my magic loop. I’m slower that way but at least I don’t have giant ladders everywhere 😩
@@easilyknitfluenced I knit my first pair during COVID lockdown and it helped me get through all the zoom meetings! I had a blast and I learned a lot with that first pair. But I haven’t knit socks since. I’m ready to dive back in.
I am going to say thank you because your video is more than just about knitting. You are an excellent model of how to be the non-people pleaser. You perfectly explain your opinion and your boundaries and your ideas with such authenticity! I am a recovering people pleaser and I marvel at your ability to be so centered in your own self and know yourself so well that you can Completely approach any situation without compromising yourself for anything or anyone! Thank you so much
What a lovely comment, and thank you so much for watching. I've been on that same journey myself, so I know how hard it is (and continues to be!) Godspeed on your recovery journey. You can do it!
3:38 I love those needles, those are awesome! Much easier to thread the yarn. I do lots of italian bind-offs so those needles are a must for me. But if someone already owns metal ones - these will be unnesesary extra. 😊
I'm a flexiflip fan. I like them for socks and sleeves- because I get annoyed at the loops in magic loop when the circumference is small. There's also fewer pieces to lose.
I have to put in another vote for flexible DPNs. I use the Hiyahiya steel sharp ones. They are incredible. I actually prefer a DPN over a magic loop but flexible DPNs are like a beautiful marriage of the two. They’re infinitely less fiddly than a DPN and just work seamlessly for small circumference in the round. The only downside is that they are much more expensive than traditional DPNs or just using circulars you already have. Which I think makes them perfect gifts! I slowly built up my collection and I’m an evangelist for them now. They’re the best and most under appreciated method! I am not a sock knitter but I do make baby/ kids clothing and the occasional accessory. That’s when I use them! Otherwise I use my 4” Hiyahiya steel sharps with a 14/16” cable for things like sleeves.
I personally LOVE having scissors with a cover in my knitting bag, but I usually have a dental floss container for backup anyway. I don't like the teensy ones like this, but I have several other styles.
I agree with a lot of your takes! I actually tracked down the elephant ruler specifically because it has cut outs for the needle sizes instead of holes which means I can use for my crochet hooks too.
I am a 68 year-old knitter, who wholeheartedly agrees with you ( Although I do have two knitting bowls, which were hand-crafted for me as gifts, that I do use from time to time.) You don’t really need a lot of gadgets to be a good knitter! Love your podcast, as it is so very practical.
Thank you for watching! I’m sure a hand crafted version performs much better than mine did, as soon as I saw the yarn getting snagged on raggedy wood I ended the yarn bowl mission 😭
Thank you so much for watching! I was hoping for a whole list of utterly insane suggestions, which I didn't get, but I'm glad they sprinkled a few in there :)
Huge disagree on the yarn cocoon, I got one after I passed the bar and not only do I get tons of compliments on it, it is VERY practical. Basically I keep it attached to my purse, and it holds the yarn for whatever project I'm working on on the go. The yarn can move freely inside the holder and come out the side without getting tangled or falling out. It may not work well with cakes, but I wind my yarn into balls and consider a knitting purchase second only to my interchangeables.
I agree with a lot of your takes! However, knitting scissors - I would literally never leave home without them 😂 I have a small pouch with scissors, embroidery needles, stitch markers, measure tape - so it's safe, the scissors would never accidentally touch my WIP unless I want them to. 😉
Other than flexi-flips I’m with you 1000%. I love your directness. I wish more knitting blogs were “tell it like it is” lol. I chuckled when you read one description, “I’m going to stop you right there, this may be whimsical but not practical” Even if I was a cocoon person, I would laugh.
Loved this one! You made me chuckle at the leather wrist ruler thing, I've always thought those were insane, I've seen several people who bought them and just use them as bracelets since they're pretty useless as rulers. Thanks so much for the fun!
This is a fun video, thank you for making it. Re: project bags - hands down my favourite is an IKEA Parkla shoe bag, its 69 cents (Canadian $!!) is zippered, waterproof and big enough for most projects. Goes easily into my purse /bag.
New subscriber to your lovely channel. I don't knit, but have crocheted for over 50 years, many of the things on here will be useful (or not) to both knitters and crocheters, especially those blocking combs. I have that same exact set, and it has proved invaluable for many of my doilies, and granny squares. Great video, glad aimfound you.
2:46 I bring nail clippers just for my projects to cut my yarns and threads when I travel. However, I normally have a small scissor in my bag as well and am yet to be flagged for them. I did lose a lovely set of Eiffel Tower scissors to a court house once because I forgot they were in my bag on the way in, and forgot to pick them back up on the way out. 😭
I like that you actually owned a lot of these items, lol. "knitting tool specific bag" nah. I've got like a hundred purses and bags and cases. My favorite is pencil cases. They're just the right size. Also, i can crochet a pouch (and did!) to my exact specifications and preferences and color choice, that does exactly what I need and want. Rather than just being a bottomless unorganized marry poppins pouch. I actually DO walk and knit/crochet all the time! I realize now that it's my adhd; i NEED to keep my hands and mind busy and walking is SO boring but at the same time can be very over stimulating for my senses (traffic, lights, people yelling, navigating where I'm going; walk, don't walk, other pedestrians, animals, etc). and taking a craft with me is SO helpful. I actually like going for walks now. I even know people who like to take their work to the gym and craft while on the treadmill! That being said, that ball cage thing is, sure, whimsical, but over priced. A plastic grocery bag can do the same job. I have seven hundred totes/ bags/ purses/ etc. I can use for this purpose. That being said, I am looking into getting (or making??) a yarn caddy that's basically a pole that spears the yearn through the middle where it then sits on a flat base, and the pole is attached to a wristband and it spins freely as you work the yarn. i think this would be helpful for rewinding problematic skeins where the center pull just isn't cooperating. I was looking into getting a yarn bowl and I HATE how unfinished the yarn holes are in them. Like, what's the point? I work with a lot of fluffy yarn that has halo effects. My favorite yarn is an extremely loosely spun almost nearly just roving. Sadly, I think a lot of gadgets and "helpful tools" are often not actually made by crafters or tested by actual crafters with their actual needs in mind. I also really like that leather ruler bracelet. First, I agree with you that if it is only for the purpose of having a ruler, there are easier more convenient and smaller, less obtrusive ways to carry one. That being said, I love leather jewery and really like the look of multi-wrap leather bracelets. This is absolutely something I would just wear cuz I like the look of it. It doubling as a ruler is just a bonus for me. that fish pouch and tools... "comes with this set of 2 scandi-cool tools" ... the picture shows four wildly different tools.. ? which does it come with? Also, those look like latch hooks? i think that patterns, hooks/needles, and kits are very individual to each person. Most of the yarn crafters I know are very specific about their tools and projects and it would be a shame to get them something that they wouldn't use (and they would feel immensely guilty about not using, but it just doesn't serve their needs). For example, I would not appreciate an amigurumi type of pattern, but my friend would love them. She would not appreciate a sweater pattern, and for me it depends. (but also maybe I'm a little bitter because the only time I ever received a pattern as a gift, that person then passive aggressively hounded me to make that item for them "I know what I'm getting for Christmas next year!" and "How's my sweater coming along?"). I find kits to be mostly disappointing and frustrating. and I am SO particular about my hooks and needles. Personally, I think a great gift to a crafter in your life would honestly be to either get them a gift card or take them directly to their store of choice and give them a spending limit. Let them pick out yarn or tools or patterns. Or have them send you a wishlist from a website (my partner picked something out of an etsy list I made).
I love your directness. Underpinning the marketing of so many silly (knitting and other) gifts is simply the desire to sell us something. Just give me the absolute basics: yarn, needles, and a pattern. Forget most of the other stuff-especially those ridiculous bags!
So true! People are free to spend their money on what they want, of course, but the older I get the more naked consumerism stands out to me, and sometimes it’s ridiculous in its overtness.
Oh the bags. Some are $70. Geesh. I look for high end zippered pillow covers at Goodwill. They make perfect project bags! Pottery Barn are the primo ones!
I own the Geometry yarn cocoon and it is amazing! Knit on the go, waiting in line, etc etc. I also frequently use it as a handbag because it fits a phone/card/keys. Originally I didn’t buy the fabric pouch that fits inside it, I quickly realised that’s a necessity! It doesn’t fit a big project, but for scarf/ shawl/ socks/ hat etc it’s dreamy
I do enjoy walking and crocheting but neither is done effectively 😅. I cant figure out yarn bowls. Just never worked for me. What do you do with stitch markers that are just a circle?
Another advantage of the blocking combs is that they're big enough so they don't get lost, leaving you to worry that some poor human or animal will step on them. And if you give them to someone who already has some, it's not a problem because the extras come in handy for larger pieces.
Great review. One thing I have noticed is that the Knit Picks ball winder is not designed for large skeins. I have this and think I probably need to buy one that handles larger skeins.
Those needles for sewing up knitting or sewing in ends are really good as the ‘eyes’ are big enough for chunky yarns. The only problem is they they can break.
@@easilyknitfluenced I go back and forth. The key to avoiding ladders that I was taught is to do the second stitch on the new needle tight then it balances out as you work.
You are so welcome! I’ve never used Lykke, but they look very nice from the pictures on the site. I’ve got my clover and chiaogoo sets at this point so I keep adding extra needles to the same set in sizes 4, 5, and 6 😂
I basically agree with everything you’ve commented on. I also have hundreds of stitch markers and only use the light bulbs! Zip lock bags are clear, light and moisture proof!
I have a set of wool needles (though plastic) and they are handy for chunkier yarns or if you have bolth arthritic hands and poor eyesight like me but, best of all, when you accidentally cut your yarn tails too short...because you can weave the needle through several stitches where you want it to go, THEN put your tail through the loop and pull it through.
I can wholeheardily recommend Lykke needles. They are really great to work with. I always used 3-4 mm needles for my knits, but lately I've been glad, that my mom got me a Knitpro (glued birchwood) needle set back in the day. because I've started to knit with a lot of different yarns and would need to buy new needles for my bulky yarn if not for the present. So, as a present, a needle set, can be a good idea. It is something expensive that a knitter would hesitate to buy, but can come in handy in the long term.
If you have an Ocean State Job Lots store nearby you can buy a package of those spongy interlocking floor mats for a lot less than the knitting blocking mats and they are larger so you can block larger items for a lot less money!
I bet ceramic would be gorgeous. The one I received just wasn’t up to the task and I couldn’t get my fingers into the gap to sand down the rough edges myself
The wool needles were new to me this year, they are great for when you end up with a yarn end that is short that you need to weave in. I use them more with granny squares than with my knitting.
A lot of the ones you dislike are more useful for sock knitting. They're not great for someone who knits a lot of garments. But for socks, some of these are great
This list seems really all over the place. I actually really love the flower stitch markers but you mention you don't do color work which is where I use them - to block off repeats for color work or lace. I think the original idea for flexiflips were for sock knitters but I don't think they really took off for that. I tend to favor using those in lieu of dpns but I probably use them the most for sweater sleeves. I do think they help with laddering. Lastly the punch needle pouch is for rug punching which in my opinion is totally knitting adjacent. It really is it's own craft. As always, a fun topic Michelle!
I think it’s definitely a crowd sourced list which accounts for the complete randomness of it. Some total beginner stuff and way more advanced things too!
"Wool needles" is just another term for darning needles! So if they're specific to chunkier yarns then I expect that could be a useful gift for someone who uses that weight a lot. I would absolutely agree about the geometry cocoon thing except I saw someone knitting with one literally yesterday, so I guess some people find them useful! Not for me though 😂
I thought the Panda machine for wringing water out of hand knits would be here under the less than $200 category . $150.00 and it is the BEST! Sweaters take less time to dry and it’s quick!
As a knitter I would like to get as a gift some premium class yarn to try. While instruments... Very personal, hardly one could guess what I'd want (a Tulip set). You haven't mentioned one instrument very important in winter - personal flashlights.
If you must wear a ruler on your wrist, may I suggest the under $5 slap bracelet I found for elementary students at target this school season. I'm fairly sure similar items are available in other locations. Surprisingly, they appear to be reasonably accurate rulers, but you may wish to check before purchase. The bracelet I found does fit adult size wrists. It does not grace mine.....
I love having small scissors with my notions. I keep a small notions tin in each project bag, I pick up inexpensive micro scissors at sewing shops, they fit in the tin along with stitch markers, mini measuring tape, cut off crochet hooks for picking up stitches, and a tapestry needle. Those knitpicks needle sets, they're essentially the same thing as a tapestry needle. WTF is that geometry yarn....monstrosity? Please no one ever buy that for me. It's ugly and not useful.
Also the addi flexitips are a great concept, for someone who does lots of socks/mittens or the like. But Hiya Hiya makes a way better version, and cheaper than the Addis. Having the flexible middle just makes it a little easier when doing small circumferences.
I also want to put in a vote for portable scissors! So many people like to say they’re unnecessary and actually a lot of people just rip their yarn with their bare hands (🥲) but I LOVE my scissors. I have folding ones that are no risk to my yarn but I also have a specific notions pouch I usually carry. Clean cuts are really helpful to me for threading my darning needle when I weave in ends but also it makes separating fibers much easier when I wet splice my yarn mid-project. I have the Cohana Seki yarn snips, which I think are the original of the snips shown on the list? I received mine as a gift and at first don’t think I would use them over my folding ones, but the Cohana Seki have rounded edges and are WILDLY convenient. I love them. I throw them right into my project bags and they’ve never cause me any problems. It ended up being a gift I didn’t know I wanted but now really cherish.
These are obviously NYC prices because I found that at least half of these items I can get for a much lower cost. Knitting bowls, useless; leather wrist ruler, useless except to silently indicate that you’re a knitter to other knitters if that’s your thing; stitch markers in different sizes, useful to me but I can find better ones on Etsy for less; the interchangeable needle set is a great idea as are the blocking items, the yarn winder, and swift but only for someone other than a beginner whom you’re sure isn’t going to get frustrated and drop knitting as a hobby within a month because these items are pricy. I am very picky about yarn, about patterns, and even about colors when it comes to knitting accessories, so, gift cards to me are always the best choice. Besides, half the fun is picking things out for yourself, don’t you think?😊
I use my wood yarn bowl for jewelry or hair things I take off as I come in the door. A nice yarn winder would be a great gift. I bought plastic and have regrets. It squeals and screams and drives me crazy.
I think the problem with these gift lists is that they’re geared towards people who just started knitting-like I already have fancy or fun scissors, a million stitch markers (locking and unlocking, they’re both great!!), blocking materials, etc. Then you have the super impractical stuff that surely some people could use but then many others have no use for. I was also gifted a yarn bowl and never use it (my cats always played with any yarn left out) but I do love project bags or zippered pouches!
I must say, your approach is very condescending. Not that I don’t agree with you on some of these, but there are a lot of people who are not you, and who may approach their knits and their lives in a completely different way and it’s pretty arrogant to say “I think this is stupid and no one needs this”
They are absolutely welcome to disagree with me and go on happily living their lives with all these items. That’s why this is a hot takes video, it’s my immediate reactions to these items. Not my tailored to please everyone reactions
Last year I saw a similar list and what fascinated me the most was the idea of giving someone special washing soaps such as Soak or Eucalan. They are not the cheapest, they have different scents and, most importantly, they will definitely find a use. The idea may seem basic, but I would love a gift like this (istead of strange gadgets or random patterns).
That's an awesome idea. I 100% agree, the good stuff isn't cheap. And I always think with gift giving, you should aim to buy someone something they wouldn't justify buying for themselves. So expensive luxurious detergent would be awesome. I'd be so happy to receive something like that
Flexi Flips are much faster than magic loop- especially for socks. It is actually a great gift, especially for sock knitters, because those needles can run $30/ set.
Good to know! I never knit socks so definitely not familiar. I wish I could make dpnS work but so far, no success. So I plod along slowly with my magic loop
agreed! In Europe they're going as "Crasy Trio" I think and I absolutely love them for sleeves and socks as I hate magic loop with a passion xD I'd even rather use 2 fixed circulars than magic loop
I’m totally with you - team Flexi Flips all the way. I particularly love the extra long flexi flips for knitting sleeves!!
Once I tried the flexiflips I fell in love! I didn’t really like the magic loop method. I still use straight dpns for some knitting. I made my first pair of socks with flexiflips and it was brilliant!
My one and only dpn experience was such a disaster that I defaulted straight back to my magic loop. I’m slower that way but at least I don’t have giant ladders everywhere 😩
Makes total sense for sock knitters. I may yet be convinced to knit some socks 🤪
@@easilyknitfluenced I knit my first pair during COVID lockdown and it helped me get through all the zoom meetings! I had a blast and I learned a lot with that first pair. But I haven’t knit socks since. I’m ready to dive back in.
I am going to say thank you because your video is more than just about knitting. You are an excellent model of how to be the non-people pleaser. You perfectly explain your opinion and your boundaries and your ideas with such authenticity! I am a recovering people pleaser and I marvel at your ability to be so centered in your own self and know yourself so well that you can Completely approach any situation without compromising yourself for anything or anyone! Thank you so much
What a lovely comment, and thank you so much for watching. I've been on that same journey myself, so I know how hard it is (and continues to be!) Godspeed on your recovery journey. You can do it!
I often throw my yarn in my bag and knit while I walk from place to place. It only works for simple projects but I’ve been working on a hat!
3:38 I love those needles, those are awesome! Much easier to thread the yarn. I do lots of italian bind-offs so those needles are a must for me. But if someone already owns metal ones - these will be unnesesary extra. 😊
I'm a flexiflip fan. I like them for socks and sleeves- because I get annoyed at the loops in magic loop when the circumference is small. There's also fewer pieces to lose.
I have to put in another vote for flexible DPNs. I use the Hiyahiya steel sharp ones. They are incredible. I actually prefer a DPN over a magic loop but flexible DPNs are like a beautiful marriage of the two. They’re infinitely less fiddly than a DPN and just work seamlessly for small circumference in the round.
The only downside is that they are much more expensive than traditional DPNs or just using circulars you already have. Which I think makes them perfect gifts! I slowly built up my collection and I’m an evangelist for them now. They’re the best and most under appreciated method!
I am not a sock knitter but I do make baby/ kids clothing and the occasional accessory. That’s when I use them! Otherwise I use my 4” Hiyahiya steel sharps with a 14/16” cable for things like sleeves.
I personally LOVE having scissors with a cover in my knitting bag, but I usually have a dental floss container for backup anyway. I don't like the teensy ones like this, but I have several other styles.
Any particular brands you’d recommend?
Etsy has a gift guide for knitters this year that's hilariously bad. You should do a part 2 on that one!
I agree with a lot of your takes! I actually tracked down the elephant ruler specifically because it has cut outs for the needle sizes instead of holes which means I can use for my crochet hooks too.
Ahh well it’s good that it has a dual purpose then! I actually have a random ruler I bought years ago that’s much smaller and has the holes in it too
I am a 68 year-old knitter, who wholeheartedly agrees with you ( Although I do have two knitting bowls, which were hand-crafted for me as gifts, that I do use from time to time.) You don’t really need a lot of gadgets to be a good knitter! Love your podcast, as it is so very practical.
Thank you for watching! I’m sure a hand crafted version performs much better than mine did, as soon as I saw the yarn getting snagged on raggedy wood I ended the yarn bowl mission 😭
I positively hooted with laughter at your takes on some of these gifts. You can roll your eyes nearly as loudly as I do….
Love your channel 😊
Thank you so much for watching! I was hoping for a whole list of utterly insane suggestions, which I didn't get, but I'm glad they sprinkled a few in there :)
Such useful informative video, thank you! 🤎
Huge disagree on the yarn cocoon, I got one after I passed the bar and not only do I get tons of compliments on it, it is VERY practical. Basically I keep it attached to my purse, and it holds the yarn for whatever project I'm working on on the go. The yarn can move freely inside the holder and come out the side without getting tangled or falling out. It may not work well with cakes, but I wind my yarn into balls and consider a knitting purchase second only to my interchangeables.
Hi.
Never block WET things. They're always damp.
I understand that a floor is not suitable. Sometimes, I block it on a carpet, with a sheet under it.
I agree with a lot of your takes! However, knitting scissors - I would literally never leave home without them 😂 I have a small pouch with scissors, embroidery needles, stitch markers, measure tape - so it's safe, the scissors would never accidentally touch my WIP unless I want them to. 😉
Other than flexi-flips I’m with you 1000%. I love your directness. I wish more knitting blogs were “tell it like it is” lol. I chuckled when you read one description, “I’m going to stop you right there, this may be whimsical but not practical” Even if I was a cocoon person, I would laugh.
Loved this one! You made me chuckle at the leather wrist ruler thing, I've always thought those were insane, I've seen several people who bought them and just use them as bracelets since they're pretty useless as rulers. Thanks so much for the fun!
This is a fun video, thank you for making it. Re: project bags - hands down my favourite is an IKEA Parkla shoe bag, its 69 cents (Canadian $!!) is zippered, waterproof and big enough for most projects. Goes easily into my purse /bag.
Didn' know this exised😂 Might be very usefull for shoes too
Love this, great tip!
I use those bags too!!! Great for when I'm knitting a sweater!
New subscriber to your lovely channel. I don't knit, but have crocheted for over 50 years, many of the things on here will be useful (or not) to both knitters and crocheters, especially those blocking combs. I have that same exact set, and it has proved invaluable for many of my doilies, and granny squares. Great video, glad aimfound you.
Thank you so much for joining! They are a game changer. I love my set so much
You are so funny 😂. I agree with your assessment of the whimsical pieces 🤦🏻♀️
Thanks for watching!
"Eighty-four dollar geometry yarn cocoon" 😂😂😂 (Just a gift card for me, please!)
I cannot imagine what possible purpose would be served by the yarn cocoon 😂😂😂
2:46 I bring nail clippers just for my projects to cut my yarns and threads when I travel. However, I normally have a small scissor in my bag as well and am yet to be flagged for them. I did lose a lovely set of Eiffel Tower scissors to a court house once because I forgot they were in my bag on the way in, and forgot to pick them back up on the way out. 😭
I like that you actually owned a lot of these items, lol.
"knitting tool specific bag" nah. I've got like a hundred purses and bags and cases. My favorite is pencil cases. They're just the right size. Also, i can crochet a pouch (and did!) to my exact specifications and preferences and color choice, that does exactly what I need and want. Rather than just being a bottomless unorganized marry poppins pouch.
I actually DO walk and knit/crochet all the time! I realize now that it's my adhd; i NEED to keep my hands and mind busy and walking is SO boring but at the same time can be very over stimulating for my senses (traffic, lights, people yelling, navigating where I'm going; walk, don't walk, other pedestrians, animals, etc). and taking a craft with me is SO helpful. I actually like going for walks now. I even know people who like to take their work to the gym and craft while on the treadmill! That being said, that ball cage thing is, sure, whimsical, but over priced. A plastic grocery bag can do the same job. I have seven hundred totes/ bags/ purses/ etc. I can use for this purpose.
That being said, I am looking into getting (or making??) a yarn caddy that's basically a pole that spears the yearn through the middle where it then sits on a flat base, and the pole is attached to a wristband and it spins freely as you work the yarn. i think this would be helpful for rewinding problematic skeins where the center pull just isn't cooperating.
I was looking into getting a yarn bowl and I HATE how unfinished the yarn holes are in them. Like, what's the point? I work with a lot of fluffy yarn that has halo effects. My favorite yarn is an extremely loosely spun almost nearly just roving. Sadly, I think a lot of gadgets and "helpful tools" are often not actually made by crafters or tested by actual crafters with their actual needs in mind.
I also really like that leather ruler bracelet. First, I agree with you that if it is only for the purpose of having a ruler, there are easier more convenient and smaller, less obtrusive ways to carry one. That being said, I love leather jewery and really like the look of multi-wrap leather bracelets. This is absolutely something I would just wear cuz I like the look of it. It doubling as a ruler is just a bonus for me.
that fish pouch and tools... "comes with this set of 2 scandi-cool tools" ... the picture shows four wildly different tools.. ? which does it come with? Also, those look like latch hooks?
i think that patterns, hooks/needles, and kits are very individual to each person. Most of the yarn crafters I know are very specific about their tools and projects and it would be a shame to get them something that they wouldn't use (and they would feel immensely guilty about not using, but it just doesn't serve their needs). For example, I would not appreciate an amigurumi type of pattern, but my friend would love them. She would not appreciate a sweater pattern, and for me it depends. (but also maybe I'm a little bitter because the only time I ever received a pattern as a gift, that person then passive aggressively hounded me to make that item for them "I know what I'm getting for Christmas next year!" and "How's my sweater coming along?"). I find kits to be mostly disappointing and frustrating. and I am SO particular about my hooks and needles.
Personally, I think a great gift to a crafter in your life would honestly be to either get them a gift card or take them directly to their store of choice and give them a spending limit. Let them pick out yarn or tools or patterns. Or have them send you a wishlist from a website (my partner picked something out of an etsy list I made).
I love your directness. Underpinning the marketing of so many silly (knitting and other) gifts is simply the desire to sell us something. Just give me the absolute basics: yarn, needles, and a pattern. Forget most of the other stuff-especially those ridiculous bags!
So true! People are free to spend their money on what they want, of course, but the older I get the more naked consumerism stands out to me, and sometimes it’s ridiculous in its overtness.
Oh the bags. Some are $70. Geesh. I look for high end zippered pillow covers at Goodwill. They make perfect project bags! Pottery Barn are the primo ones!
I own the Geometry yarn cocoon and it is amazing! Knit on the go, waiting in line, etc etc. I also frequently use it as a handbag because it fits a phone/card/keys.
Originally I didn’t buy the fabric pouch that fits inside it, I quickly realised that’s a necessity! It doesn’t fit a big project, but for scarf/ shawl/ socks/ hat etc it’s dreamy
I do enjoy walking and crocheting but neither is done effectively 😅.
I cant figure out yarn bowls. Just never worked for me.
What do you do with stitch markers that are just a circle?
Another advantage of the blocking combs is that they're big enough so they don't get lost, leaving you to worry that some poor human or animal will step on them. And if you give them to someone who already has some, it's not a problem because the extras come in handy for larger pieces.
YES. those little needles make me so nervous with two little kids and two cats wandering around my house
I agree with you 100% on knitting/crochet bags. I just use one of the million bags I already have around the house.
Great review. One thing I have noticed is that the Knit Picks ball winder is not designed for large skeins. I have this and think I probably need to buy one that handles larger skeins.
Those needles for sewing up knitting or sewing in ends are really good as the ‘eyes’ are big enough for chunky yarns. The only problem is they they can break.
No magic loop for me. DPNs or flexi flips all day long.
I wish I could do it. DPNs seem beyond me, at least for now :(
@@easilyknitfluenced I go back and forth. The key to avoiding ladders that I was taught is to do the second stitch on the new needle tight then it balances out as you work.
Hi Michelle, love your videos! I would have loved a set of needles as a gift. And Lykke are very nice to work with. Thanks for the post!
You are so welcome! I’ve never used Lykke, but they look very nice from the pictures on the site. I’ve got my clover and chiaogoo sets at this point so I keep adding extra needles to the same set in sizes 4, 5, and 6 😂
The Knitters Pride Wool Needles are a life saver when you have very short ends the you need to weave in - they’re a must have.
I always have ridiculously long ends so I guess I haven’t needed them before 😂
I basically agree with everything you’ve commented on. I also have hundreds of stitch markers and only use the light bulbs! Zip lock bags are clear, light and moisture proof!
Same!! Also I’m a little surprised this list doesn’t include stitch stoppers - I’m vey partial to mine
I have a set of wool needles (though plastic) and they are handy for chunkier yarns or if you have bolth arthritic hands and poor eyesight like me but, best of all, when you accidentally cut your yarn tails too short...because you can weave the needle through several stitches where you want it to go, THEN put your tail through the loop and pull it through.
Thanks for sharing! I always leave crazy long tails because I’m paranoid about this exact issue, so I’m glad someone found a solution for it
I can wholeheardily recommend Lykke needles. They are really great to work with.
I always used 3-4 mm needles for my knits, but lately I've been glad, that my mom got me a Knitpro (glued birchwood) needle set back in the day. because I've started to knit with a lot of different yarns and would need to buy new needles for my bulky yarn if not for the present. So, as a present, a needle set, can be a good idea. It is something expensive that a knitter would hesitate to buy, but can come in handy in the long term.
If you have an Ocean State Job Lots store nearby you can buy a package of those spongy interlocking floor mats for a lot less than the knitting blocking mats and they are larger so you can block larger items for a lot less money!
I have a beautiful ceramic yarn bowl - when I'm not using it it looks nice on my coffee table and inevitable collects pens and such
I bet ceramic would be gorgeous. The one I received just wasn’t up to the task and I couldn’t get my fingers into the gap to sand down the rough edges myself
@easilyknitfluenced yeah I think those wooden/bamboo ones like you showed leave a lot to be desired
The wool needles were new to me this year, they are great for when you end up with a yarn end that is short that you need to weave in. I use them more with granny squares than with my knitting.
Ahhh got it! Very useful then!
I kind of like the wrist ruler just as a bracelet, depending on the quality of the leather. Very impractical as an actual ruler though!
Agreed!
A lot of the ones you dislike are more useful for sock knitting. They're not great for someone who knits a lot of garments. But for socks, some of these are great
That would explain why they feel alien to me 😄 I have yet to knit socks, I have a strange resistance to approaching them
13:38 I would wear this as jewelry because I think it’s cool, but I would not use it as an actual ruler.
👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
Those wool needles are just another easier to thread darning needles. If you use chunkier yarns, these are far superior.
Flexiflips are great!
I bet for sock knitters who like dpn they’re awesome. I may yet be convinced to knit some socks, we’ll see 😆
This list seems really all over the place. I actually really love the flower stitch markers but you mention you don't do color work which is where I use them - to block off repeats for color work or lace. I think the original idea for flexiflips were for sock knitters but I don't think they really took off for that. I tend to favor using those in lieu of dpns but I probably use them the most for sweater sleeves. I do think they help with laddering. Lastly the punch needle pouch is for rug punching which in my opinion is totally knitting adjacent. It really is it's own craft. As always, a fun topic Michelle!
I think it’s definitely a crowd sourced list which accounts for the complete randomness of it. Some total beginner stuff and way more advanced things too!
Loved your video. I would add a good hand held steamer to the list.
Coco knits markers, my faves!
"Wool needles" is just another term for darning needles! So if they're specific to chunkier yarns then I expect that could be a useful gift for someone who uses that weight a lot.
I would absolutely agree about the geometry cocoon thing except I saw someone knitting with one literally yesterday, so I guess some people find them useful! Not for me though 😂
No way, so the geometry cocoon is out there in the wild. Wow, at least someone is using it I guess 😄
I thought the Panda machine for wringing water out of hand knits would be here under the less than $200 category . $150.00 and it is the BEST! Sweaters take less time to dry and it’s quick!
Ohhhh I never heard of this! I’m going to look it up 👍🏻
As a knitter I would like to get as a gift some premium class yarn to try. While instruments... Very personal, hardly one could guess what I'd want (a Tulip set). You haven't mentioned one instrument very important in winter - personal flashlights.
If you must wear a ruler on your wrist, may I suggest the under $5 slap bracelet I found for elementary students at target this school season. I'm fairly sure similar items are available in other locations. Surprisingly, they appear to be reasonably accurate rulers, but you may wish to check before purchase.
The bracelet I found does fit adult size wrists. It does not grace mine.....
Are those slap bracelets back?! The 90's resurgence is real. My friends and I used to wear those when we were kids too!
@easilyknitfluenced Yes. I've seen them for a couple of years now. Good news - they seem less inclined to cause bleeding than the old ones did. 😉
I love having small scissors with my notions. I keep a small notions tin in each project bag, I pick up inexpensive micro scissors at sewing shops, they fit in the tin along with stitch markers, mini measuring tape, cut off crochet hooks for picking up stitches, and a tapestry needle.
Those knitpicks needle sets, they're essentially the same thing as a tapestry needle.
WTF is that geometry yarn....monstrosity? Please no one ever buy that for me. It's ugly and not useful.
Also the addi flexitips are a great concept, for someone who does lots of socks/mittens or the like. But Hiya Hiya makes a way better version, and cheaper than the Addis.
Having the flexible middle just makes it a little easier when doing small circumferences.
Lmao I know, I was trying to be polite but yikes
I also want to put in a vote for portable scissors! So many people like to say they’re unnecessary and actually a lot of people just rip their yarn with their bare hands (🥲) but I LOVE my scissors. I have folding ones that are no risk to my yarn but I also have a specific notions pouch I usually carry. Clean cuts are really helpful to me for threading my darning needle when I weave in ends but also it makes separating fibers much easier when I wet splice my yarn mid-project.
I have the Cohana Seki yarn snips, which I think are the original of the snips shown on the list? I received mine as a gift and at first don’t think I would use them over my folding ones, but the Cohana Seki have rounded edges and are WILDLY convenient. I love them. I throw them right into my project bags and they’ve never cause me any problems. It ended up being a gift I didn’t know I wanted but now really cherish.
That was fun….”why?” just “why”. Ha ha.
These are obviously NYC prices because I found that at least half of these items I can get for a much lower cost. Knitting bowls, useless; leather wrist ruler, useless except to silently indicate that you’re a knitter to other knitters if that’s your thing; stitch markers in different sizes, useful to me but I can find better ones on Etsy for less; the interchangeable needle set is a great idea as are the blocking items, the yarn winder, and swift but only for someone other than a beginner whom you’re sure isn’t going to get frustrated and drop knitting as a hobby within a month because these items are pricy. I am very picky about yarn, about patterns, and even about colors when it comes to knitting accessories, so, gift cards to me are always the best choice. Besides, half the fun is picking things out for yourself, don’t you think?😊
100%. I love a gift card and actively encourage people to buy them for me. It's always such fun to go to my local yarn store and dig around
I use my wood yarn bowl for jewelry or hair things I take off as I come in the door. A nice yarn winder would be a great gift. I bought plastic and have regrets. It squeals and screams and drives me crazy.
I agree. I wish I hadn’t gotten a plastic one, but it’s not technically broken so I haven’t replaced it
I think the problem with these gift lists is that they’re geared towards people who just started knitting-like I already have fancy or fun scissors, a million stitch markers (locking and unlocking, they’re both great!!), blocking materials, etc.
Then you have the super impractical stuff that surely some people could use but then many others have no use for. I was also gifted a yarn bowl and never use it (my cats always played with any yarn left out) but I do love project bags or zippered pouches!
Yes, you're correct. They're for beginners, but also somehow quite an investment (like a yarn swift) for a hobby that might get dropped by a beginner
I hate getting patterns. I’m very particular about my patterns.
I have pointed people to my ravelry before!
I must say, your approach is very condescending. Not that I don’t agree with you on some of these, but there are a lot of people who are not you, and who may approach their knits and their lives in a completely different way and it’s pretty arrogant to say “I think this is stupid and no one needs this”
They are absolutely welcome to disagree with me and go on happily living their lives with all these items. That’s why this is a hot takes video, it’s my immediate reactions to these items. Not my tailored to please everyone reactions
Yeah, it’s the attitude that keeps me from hitting the like
Here's a comment for engagement, but I don't think the author of that article is a seasoned knitter? Maybe knitter adjacent😅
Probably not. I think the intro blurb to the article says "knitting gift suggestions from knitters", so most likely they canvassed around for ideas