I started with 1 set of size 7 needles and one skein of yarn, which got me started on a scarf (my scarf ended up being 3 skeins long). Everything else I have I have accumulated as a project calls for it. That is one of the reasons I get so excited about starting a new project, it means new tools and notions!! Everytime I visit a store that carries Knitting items I may pick up a little treat for myself such as needle protectors, a new counter, a ball of cotton yarn for dishcloths, etc.
I’m a new knitter and I’m picking up my DPNs along the way, but I’ve found that if you are on a budget (like me) you should count in the cost of two sets when planning a project. I find myself buying the recommended set, and then the set that allows me to get the right gauge.
had to come back and add…
my favorite tapestry needles are chibi bent tip needles. i think i got mine from jimmy beans. they come in a little chapstick-size tube with a screw-off lid. you’ll get a set of 3 per container. i’ll never go back to straight tapestry needles!
Ok - I think you guys must all be under 40 - unless I missed it, I don’t see that anyone has mentioned a needle threader. There’s no way I can thread those tapestry needles without my needle threader :pout:
here’s a trick that trumps the needle threader.
fold the tail of yarn over and squish it flat between your thumb and finger. hold it there and slide the eye of the tapestry needle down between your fingers. your needle will be threaded!
A piece of fishing line folded over makes a great needle threader! 