What’s in My Knitting Bag: Must Have Knitting Tools I Use Every Day

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Every knitter has their go-to tools—the essentials that make every project smoother, more enjoyable, and frustration-free. Whether you’re knitting at home or on the go, having a well-stocked knitting kit means you’re always prepared.

In this post, I’ll take you inside my knitting bag and show you the must have knitting tools I carry everywhere. You’ll also find my YouTube video, where I walk through each tool, plus recommendations for knitting gadgets that can make your projects even easier.

Knitting Tools Every Knitter Needs | What’s in My Knit Kit?

1. Must Have Knitting Tools: Cutting & Measuring Tools

A sharp pair of scissors is a must. Whether you’re snipping yarn or trimming ends, a dedicated pair of craft scissors is essential. If you travel with your knitting, consider a yarn cutter pendant, which has a protected blade and is TSA-friendly.

Other must-haves in my bag:
✔️ Nail clippers – Handy for cutting yarn in a pinch.
✔️ Emery board – Fixes snags on nails that might catch on yarn.
✔️ Tape measure – Ensures projects are the right size.
✔️ Gauge ruler – Helps check the stitch gauge before starting a project.

2. Darning Needles & Stitch Holders

When finishing a project, darning needles are essential for weaving in ends. I keep a few different sizes in my knitting bag, stored in small tubes for easy access.

Another useful tool? Stitch holders. When knitting in sections, these keep live stitches secure until you’re ready to continue.

3. Stitch Markers & Cable Needles

I always keep an assortment of stitch markers in my bag—both fixed rings (for sliding onto needles) and locking markers (for attaching directly to stitches).

Cable knitting? A cable needle is key for holding stitches while creating beautiful twists and braids.

🔹 Fun Tip: I have custom World of Warcraft stitch markers that my husband found for me on Etsy! Stitch markers can be functional and fun.

4. Emergency Fix-It Tools

Dropped a stitch? No problem! My kit includes:
✔️ Crochet hooks – The fastest way to fix a dropped stitch.
✔️ Cable needles or paperclips – Can double as stitch holders in a pinch.
✔️ Tweezers – You never know when you’ll need them!

5. Magnetic Board for Patterns

Knitting with a complex pattern? A magnetic pattern board keeps your place. I use small magnets to mark my progress and track row counts.

6. Knitting Needles & Project Reminders

colorful knitting needles from the top down

I keep a few extra double-pointed needles (DPNs) in my kit—just in case I need to pick up stitches or switch projects.

I also store yarn labels from my current projects, so I can reference fiber content and washing instructions later.

7. Fun Extras & Personal Touches

Finally, every knitter has their own extras. In my bag, I always carry:
✔️ A seam ripper – It’s meant for sewing, but has saved my knitting projects more than once!
✔️ Business cards – You never know when you’ll meet a fellow knitter.
✔️ A pen & notebook – Perfect for jotting down modifications or pattern ideas.

knitting tools and yarn displayed on a work table

Conclusion

A well-stocked knitting bag keeps you prepared for any project, whether you’re at home or on the go. If you’re new to knitting, start with a few essentials and build your kit over time.