Light up needles do exist even though they are considered by some to be just a gimmick! Mostly straight knitting needles they help to knit with dark yarn or when there is minimum light. Here are my recommendations to lighted knitting needles.
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Frustrated Teacher Quits In Disgust, Sells The Farm, Moves The Family Halfway Across The World And… Starts Knitting
Knitting needles that light up are great for knitting with dark-colored yarn, knitting in darker environments, or when you’re watching something with others.
I reviewed and updated this post on April 18, 2023.
Table Of Contents
- Lighted Knitting Needles
- Lite Knitting Needles
- LED Straight Needles
- Lighted Circular Knitting Needles
Best Lighted Knitting Needles
Light up needles seemed like a fun idea, especially for late-night knitting sessions. However, the overall quality of the needles didn’t live up to my expectations. The material is flimsy compared to my higher-end needles, and the light intensity is somewhat uneven, but they’re still functional.
While these needles might not be my go-to choice, they’re a fun, inexpensive novelty. Sometimes it’s worth investing in better quality tools. You’re perhaps better off using the best rated knitting needles and a neck light.
Bottom line? Lighted needles aren’t the best quality, but they’re budget-friendly!
Needlelite LED Light Needles
Searching online for this product brand is difficult. It seems they are no longer in being manufactured. Made by the company Needlelite, their specialty is knitting needles and crochet hooks that light up. The batteries are replaceable, included, and last 50,000 hours.
A soft blue LED light lights the whole needle. These were the most popular lighted knitting needles. Needlelite is still an Etsy seller but this product is no longer available in their store.
Features
- 11″ Long
- Instructions for replacing the batteries are included
- Made In The US
Pros
- The whole needle lights up
- Gentle blue light
- Bright enough to see
- Lightweight
- Comfortable to use
Cons
- Shipping takes a while
- Some found they weren’t bright
- Expensive
Plastic Knitting Needles With Batteries
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Battery operated, and a simple off-on switch. Functional, and easy to use. Available in very limited sizes, but they’re a pair of plastic knitting needles.
Features
- Single Set Of Straights
- Made In China
- 13″ Long
Pros
- Not too bright or dim
- Comfortable to use
- Right length for a variety of projects
- Fast shipping
- Battery is replaceable
Cons
- Only the tips light up
- For what you get the price is expensive
LED Light Straight Needles
I found this generic brand on Amazon, and while they were avaliable for a while, they seem to have disappeared! I’m just keeping my review here in case you’ve somehow found them second-hand.
Comfortable and lightweight despite having a battery in them. Perfect for people with hand strain while making it easier to see the stitches.
Features
- Plastic & Metal
- Single Set Of Straight Needles
Pros
- Sizes etched on the stopper of the needle
- Smooth
- Range of sizes
- Battery is replaceable
- Comfortable
- Light is a perfect brightness
Cons
- Only the tips are lit
- Too long for some
- Has grip due to being plastic
Clover Knit Lite Needles – Limited Sizes & Colors
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There is limited availability, colors and sizes of these light up tool. The straight knitting needles are colored plastic with the end of the needle lighting up. The fact that these have very limited availability it seems they are no longer manufacturing these.
Clover is a well known needlecraft brand that offers many high quality products for knitters and crocheters. Their bamboo interchangeables and hooks set are excellent items. Both knitting needles set and hook set in their Takumi range are worth taking a look at.
Pros
- Pointed knitting tips that make it easier to get into stitches
- Lightweight
- Suits thicker yarns
Cons
- Takes 3 batteries but they claim you can get 400 hours of use before you need to replace them
Lighted Circular Knitting Needles
Despite doing extensive research, I couldn’t find light up circular needles available online.
Where To Buy Light Up Knitting Needles?
Find light up knitting needles on Amazon, Etsy, brick and mortar craft stores and local yarn stores.
Conclusion
While they offer the advantage of no more struggling to see your stitches in low light, they’re not going to last forever. There’s also limited choice, and they’re only avaliable in straights. If you are thinking of these as a gift, I’d spend your money on another item. Have you used these? I’d be interested to hear your opinion.
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