8 Best Bamboo Knitting Needles by Category

Woman knitting; bamboo knitting needles

Whether you’ve been knitting clothes for many winters or are just starting out with a new pandemic hobby, bamboo knitting needles are a great choice for knitters of every experience level.

Knitters old and new are incorporating bamboo knitting needles into their baskets for a multitude of reasons:

  • Warmer, more comfortable feel
  • Quieter
  • Incredibly strong
  • Light-as-a-feather feel
  • More ergonomic
  • Grippy texture
  • Eco-friendly resource
  • Low-maintenance
  • More affordable

Bamboo knitting needles tend to have a warmer, more comfortable feel to them and are very quiet. In contrast, master knitters can tell you that metal knitting needles are cool to the touch and click-clack together (which can be incredibly distracting when you’re throwing stitches while watching TV or trying to have some peaceful “me time.”)

While bamboo is known for being incredibly strong (in fact it’s 21% stronger than steel), these knitting needles are insanely lightweight, proving to be a great option for those with arthritis or general wrist and hand pains. In contrast, metal needles can cause fatigue.

The light-as-a-feather feel of bamboo makes these knitting needles comfortable to hold which is a huge advantage for beginners who may need needles in larger sizes.

Another benefit of having bamboo knitting needles on hand is their grippy texture. While still extraordinarily smooth to the touch, bamboo has a frictional quality that keeps your stitches in place and prevents them from falling off. Lopsided scarves are a thing of the past!

Experienced knitters may be wanting to make the switch to bamboo knitting needles for eco-friendly reasons. Bamboo is a low-maintenance resource that is self-replenishing and able to grow without fertilizers and pesticides.

There are other organic types of knitting needles such as bone. But they tend to be dryer, which causes them to splinter and catch on your yarn and hands. They are also higher maintenance, having to be waxed regularly to stay smooth.

If you’re still unsure, knitters old and new are flocking to bamboo needles because they tend to be more affordable than other materials, such as wood, and are usually available in a wider selection of sizes.

The number of options available can be overwhelming, but every crafter knows that your tools can make or break your project.

Not sure where to start? We’ve compiled a list of bamboo knitting needle top picks in multiple categories to help guide you through your next creation.

Also, be sure to check out my top picks for the best bamboo yarn.

In This Article
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    Best Overall

    Haobase 18 Sizes Circular Bamboo Knitting Needles Set with Colored Tube 2.0mm-10.0mm 80cm

    Circular needles, also known as fixed needles, tend to be the most versatile in terms of projects. Since you can use circular needles for knitting in rows or in a round shape, they are a popular choice among knitters of all levels.

    This set comes with colorful tubes between the needles which are amazingly smooth and easy to keep clean.

    One of the lovely touches of this set is that the sizes are permanently marked on the needles, so regular usage won’t leave you guessing what size you’re using. It includes needles sized 2 mm-10 mm.

    Since your needle size usually corresponds with the yarn size for your project, you’ll find that the 18 sizes you have to choose from will be a huge convenience.

    Aside from the variety of sizes and fun colors this set comes with, the quality bamboo will have you throwing stitches with this set for years to come. You’re gonna want this staple set in your craft box.

    Best Budget

    Double point needles are for working in a round, rather than working in rows for a flat project.

    This set of double-pointed knitting needles on WEBS comes in a natural bamboo finish.

    With bamboo’s incredible strength and durability, you’re set to knit anything from a newborn baby’s hat to a basket.

    You’re getting the most bang for your buck with this affordable set.

    Best Circular Bamboo Knitting Needles

    Clover Takumi Bamboo Knitting Needles Circular (24 INCH)

    Clover’s Takumi needles are amazing and come in a great range of sizes.

    These particular bamboo for these circular needles are so comfortable to hold. The tips are more pointed, rather than rounded, which are great for more detailed knitting.

    The clear center cable makes for a clean look, so you can focus on your project regardless of what color yarn you’re using.

    Clover also offers a variety of different cable sizes for these needles on their site.

    Best Interchangeable Bamboo Knitting Needles

    ChiaoGoo SPIN™ 5″ (13 cm) Tip Sets

    Interchangeable needles are a particular type under the category of circular knitting needles. An advantage of interchangeable needles is that you can detach your center cable from your end needle so you can pick and choose your sizes for each project.

    As you become more experienced, you’ll be able to better gauge what size cable you need for different projects.

    This set comes with an elegant decorative carrying case.

    So classy and easy to transport, this set also has bonus items such as stitch markers and a needle gauge.

    Best Single Point

    I promise you this WEBS set is going to do a tremendous job.

    If you’re just starting out, this set is also great to try out a simple set.

    Best Double Point

    Clover Takumi Bamboo Knitting Needles Double Pointed (7 INCH) 5 pack

    Double pointed needles are often used for cylindrical-shaped items like sleeves or beanies. Projects like these can become quite hefty.

    Luckily, these Clover Takumi bamboo knitting needles are both durable and lightweight. They can easily handle the weight of your project without putting extra stress on your hands and wrists.

    Polished for an extra smooth finish, these quality double point needles are great for beginners going from flat to round projects.

    Best Bamboo Knitting Needles for Beginners

    Clover Takumi Interchangeable Knitting Needles No. 13

    If you’re not really sure what projects you might want to try out or what supplies you’ll need, definitely add these Clover Takumi interchangeable bamboo knitting needles to your cart.

    The high-quality bamboo makes for a super smooth surface with just enough grab to prevent slippery slidey stitches.

    As mentioned, interchangeable needles give you the capability to mix and match your needle sizes for different projects.

    Both US sizes and mm sizes are engraved on the tips so you’ll never forget or lose track.

    Best Bamboo Knitting Needles for Large Projects

    12 Pairs Bamboo Knitting Needles Set Circular Wooden Knitting Needles with Colorful Plastic Tube, Size 2-15

    Expert knitters will love this bamboo knitting needle set because they are perfect for large projects. It includes 12 pairs from US sizes 2 to 15.

    The total length of the colorful middle tube is 39 inches. These will be able to handle your thickest yarn. Plus, the grip of the bamboo will prevent your stitches from falling off.

    Strong enough for your largest skeins, this excitingly bright set of bamboo knitting needles are up to the challenge of making a trendy chunky blanket.

    Author

    • Sandra Huynh​

      Sandra is a recent college graduate working in social media where she finds joy in storytelling, meeting wonderful people, and taking snapshots of simply special moments.

      She is so happy to be able to fulfill her passions for education and sustainability writing for Bamboo Goods — providing people with the best possible options for making informed, eco-friendly swaps for a greener lifestyle.

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