Straightening Needles
When circular needles are purchased from the store, the cord that runs between the needles is coiled up and once removed from the package, it has a tendency to keep that coiled shape. To straighten the cord, heat a pan of water on the stove. It should be very hot, but not boiling. Holding onto the needles, dip the cord (not the needles) into the water for a few seconds. Remove the cord from the water, lie on the counter and straighten the cord by pulling on each of the needles. Place a heavy item on each needle to hold in place and let cool for about a ½ hour. After the cord has cooled, check to see if it has straightened out. If the cord coils again, repeat the process. Be careful not to burn your hands.

Markers
If you don’t have purchased markers, try using small rubber bands or a piece of yarn of a different color, tied with a loop to fit around your knitting needles.

Twisted Stitches
It’s easy to twist stitches when knitting with circular needles, and once they are twisted, the only way to fix them is to start over. To avoid twisted stitches, check to make sure that none of the stitches are twisted after you complete each row for the first three or four rows. I like to have the knot of each stitch facing toward the inside of the needles.

Keeping your knitting project moving
The best way to keep your project moving is to keep it portable and in a convenient location.

Start by keeping your project in a small bag or basket. Include one skein of yarn for each color you are working with and the pattern. A small pencil box will hold additional items that may be needed such as scissors and markers. As the project grows, move to a larger bag or basket if needed and restock the yarn.

Keep the project in a convenient location: Next to your favorite chair in the living room, in the car, or by the door so you can easily grab it on your way out.

By keeping your project portable and conveniently located, those few spare minutes waiting in the car or watching the news can add up to a completed project.