sock knitting questions

[believer]

so, even though knitting makes my right arm hurt due to a car crash several years ago and I knit slowly - I want to knit socks.
I am trying a pattern using worsted weight yarn and size 10 dpns because it is supposed to be an easy beginner pattern, but the dpns make me nuts - so awkward. I was looking online and saw but have not yet had time to view it - a video about knitting socks on two cable needles rather than the whole mess of dpns. Does anyone here do that? Is it easier than dpns? I was given a bunch of metal cable needles that had been my sister's mil's and there are two of each of most sizes - so perhaps that is what she did - I am not sure. So, I could use those if it is not too difficult.
Anyone do that or have any suggestions?
I have cable needles with interchangeable tips, but no cables long enough or flexible enough for the magic loop thing and I cannot afford to buy expensive ones right now.

[Wonder Woman]

oh man - I'm so sorry it hurts to knit!

I use "Magic Loop" to knit all my socks - one long circular needle. I like Liat's tutorials: http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/libr...for-magic-loop

[gr8tful1]

I use magic loop also. Love it! I like two at a time toe up the best. Learned from Liat Gat.

[ArmsOfLove]

I got some great magic loop needles from Ebay awhile back - but I don't remember the link. Anyway, they were less than $10 for the set of like 10 sizes???

I have watched people do the multiple needles and I think it's amazing - and how brilliant of whoever figured out how to do that and make things round! But it's much easier (mentally and physically imo) to do the circular.

[believer]

how long does the cable need to be for magic loop?

[ArmsOfLove]

Originally Posted by believer

how long does the cable need to be for magic loop?

totally depends on what you're knitting - just has to be big enough to hold both sides of it and give you space to move and work so I always go bigger when I can.

This looks very much like the set I got - but maybe a different brand The packaging looks slightly different. http://www.ebay.com/itm/11pcs-32-80c...item43b4d6c546

[BlissfullyEsther]

I don't know which brand of interchangeables you have, but a longer cable on its own would cost probably about $5. I agree that magic loop is great for socks (I've only made one pair but I use magic loop for many things).

I know lots of people use two circulars for socks but I haven't the technique myself. I has to be easier than dpns! Give it a go and see. I liked dpns until I had kids and had to constantly stop knitting mid-row or had a child pull on a needle and make me lose the whole set of stitches. I haven't used dpns since.

ETA: I use 80 or 100cm needles for magic loop, depending on what I'm making. 80cm is usually enough, or the item becomes big enough to use a smaller cord without magic loop.

[allisonintx]

I knit socks on two circular needles. I find it easier than magic loop. When you get to where you have questions, I might be able to help.

---------- Post added at 07:50 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:49 PM ----------

I have a bit of arthritis in my elbow and find elevating my elbows on a pillow while knitting helps alleviate the pain.

[JoyfulMom]

I've knitted socks with two circs and also magic loop. I enjoy them both. I can't use dpns. They make me want to scream. Lol.


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[Punkie]

I am now mostly a DPN sock knitter, but that is only because of Signature DPNs. They are magical, but also cost an arm and a leg and another arm.

Otherwise, I magic loop. I have done socks on 2 circs before, too, but it just didn't feel right to me.

Really I think you just have to try them all and see which sticks for you. It is such a personal decision.