When starting a new knitting project with Red Heart Super Saver yarn, one of the first questions that comes up is: what size knitting needles should I use? The needle size you choose depends on the gauge that is recommended for the particular pattern you are following. Gauge refers to the number of stitches and rows in a 4-inch square of stockinette stitch. Matching the recommended gauge will help ensure your finished project comes out the correct size.
Standard Needle Size for Super Saver Yarn
Most knitting patterns designed for Red Heart Super Saver call for US size 7, 8, or 9 knitting needles. This is considered the “average” or standard needle size range for this type of yarn. Red Heart Super Saver is classified as a medium or worsted weight yarn. The wraps per inch (wpi) measurement is typically between 14-16 wpi. Medium or worsted weight yarns like this are usually knit on needle sizes between US 6 to US 10. So going with a US 7, 8 or 9 is right in the middle of that range.
| Yarn Weight | Recommended Needle Size Range |
|---|---|
| Super Bulky | US 9 – 15 |
| Bulky | US 7 – 12 |
| Worsted/Aran | US 6 – 10 |
| Sport | US 3 – 7 |
| DK | US 3 – 7 |
| fingering | US 1 – 5 |
This table provides a general guideline for recommended knitting needle sizes for different yarn weights. As you can see, the US 7-9 range falls within the suggested sizes for worsted weight yarn like Red Heart Super Saver.
How to Determine the Right Needle Size
While US 7, 8 or 9 are common needle sizes for Super Saver, the best way to determine what size needles to use is by checking the gauge listed on your pattern. Gauge is usually specified in the pattern as something like “16 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch.”
To find your optimal needle size:
- Cast on the number of stitches recommended in the pattern.
- Work in stockinette stitch for about 5-6 inches.
- Lay the knitted piece flat without stretching or distorting it and use a measuring tape to measure across 4 inches of stitching in the middle of the piece. Count the number of stitches across 4 inches.
- Count the number of rows over those same 4 inches.
- Compare the stitch and row count to the gauge listed in the pattern.
- If your stitch/row count matches the pattern gauge, you have the right size needles! If not, switch needle sizes and repeat the process until you match the gauge.
Swatching is key to getting gauge right. Even with worsted weight yarn like Super Saver, you may need a different needle size than what the ball band recommends to match the intended gauge. Don’t skip this step!
Recommended Needle Sizes for Different Super Saver Knitting Projects
While checking gauge ultimately determines the best needles for your project, these are some typical needle sizes used for common Super Saver patterns:
- Scarves: US 8s or US 9s
- Hats: US 7s or 8s
- Socks: US 1s or 2s
- Gloves: US 5s or 6s
- Sweaters: US 7s or 8s
- Blankets: US 10s or 10.5s
Looser, open stitch patterns like lace might call for a needle 1 or 2 sizes larger to get the right drape. Denser stitch patterns like cables may require smaller needles to get the stitch definition correct.
Tips for Knitting with Red Heart Super Saver
Here are some handy tips for working with Super Saver yarn:
- Knit a bit looser than normal. Super Saver has very little stretch or give, so a tight gauge could make your knitting uncomfortably stiff.
- Use bamboo, wood, or plastic needles. Metal needles can split the yarn.
- Consider going up a needle size from what you normally use. The yarn’s thickness and low stretch means sizing up usually improves the knitting experience.
- Add a smoother, stretchier yarn held together with Super Saver for projects needing more drape or elasticity.
The Importance of Swatching
Making a gauge swatch before casting on isn’t the most glamorous part of knitting, but it’s essential for success with Super Saver. Swatching lets you:
- Match the gauge to avoid surprises in finished size.
- See how the fabric handles and drapes.
- Make any adjustments to needle size before you invest time in the whole project.
- Estimate how much yarn you will need based on your personal gauge.
To swatch accurately:
- Cast on at least 20 stitches.
- Work in stockinette stitch until the piece measures about 5-6 inches long.
- Bind off loosely and block the swatch (wet blocking is best for Red Heart Super Saver).
- Let the swatch dry fully before measuring gauge over at least 4 inches.
Taking time to swatch saves frustration down the road. For a successful project with Super Saver, make gauge swatching step one.
Conclusion
With Red Heart Super Saver yarn, a good rule of thumb is to start with US size 7, 8 or 9 knitting needles for basic patterns. However, choosing the right needle size ultimately depends on knitting to the recommended gauge listed in the instructions. Make a gauge swatch before casting on to find your perfect needle size for the project. Proper gauge helps Super Saver knits turn out just right in both stitch count and drape. What size needles do you prefer for knitting with Super Saver?
