10 Must-Have Knitting Tools for Every Knitter (Essential & Game-Changing!)

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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.
🔹 Watch my video: Knitting Tools Every Knitter Needs | What’s in My Knit Kit?
1. The Essentials: 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.
Picture this: A cozy knitting setup by the window, with a ball of yarn, needles, and a pair of elegant gold-handled scissors resting on a wooden table.
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.
Picture This: A delicate yarn tapestry in progress, with a darning needle threaded through a soft wool swatch.
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.
Picture This: A small tin filled with colorful stitch markers, spilling onto a rustic wooden table with a partially knitted project in the background.
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!
🧶 Picture This: A close-up shot of a dropped stitch on a cozy knitted scarf, with a crochet hook about to rescue it.
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.
📖 Picture This: An open knitting pattern secured on a magnetic board, with a soft knit fabric in progress nearby.
6. Knitting Needles & Project Reminders

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.
🧵 Picture This: A collection of knitting needles in various materials—bamboo, metal, and resin—arranged in a fabric case next to a ball of yarn.
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.

📌 Picture This: A beautifully arranged flat lay of a knitting project, a steaming cup of tea, and an open notebook filled with knitting notes.
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.
💬 What’s in YOUR knitting bag? Share your must-have tools in the comments or join my Virtual Knitting Community to connect with other passionate knitters!
➡️ Watch my video for a full walkthrough: Knitting Tools Every Knitter Needs | What’s in My Knit Kit?
12 Genius Knitting Hacks Every Knitter Needs to Know
7 Surprising Best Places for Knitting Patterns
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