Stitches

Why are bamboo knitting needles supposed to be better than metal ones?

I am trying to find out if they would be worth the investment of replacing my regular needles.

Public Comments

1. Bamboo needles have a bit of give in them making it easier to knit. I would recommend them as they are also easier or your hands.
2. It's a matter of preference. Some find that bamboo feels better in their hands and they like how the yarn moves across the needle better than metal needles. If you're working with slippery yarn, bamboos are good because they provide drag making the yarn easier to handle. Also, having the metal-on-metal contact bothers some folks. I have metal and bamboo needles as well teflon coated and plastic needles. Which ones I use depends on the project. Try a pair of bamboo needles and see if you like them.
3. I find it depends in the type of yarn you use. I use metal from wool and non-slick yarns and wooden for slick yarns that tend to slide on the metal needles.
4. I prefer bamboo and birch for several reasons... 1. Wooden needles are not cold to the hands [metal is] 2. Wooden needles have a slight amount of give and Metal especially at small sizes [size 1 or smaller] can bend.... 3. Other than the above preferences.. there is just something more "natural" in using wooden needles.