How long circular size 8 needles should I use for 374 stitches?

Question

I hear they come pretty long.... I could use a website to buy whatever length needle I need as well. Thanks!

Answer 1

It depends to some degree on yarn diameter too.  I just finished a shawl with 1000+ stitches per row which fit nicely on 24" circs because it was such cobweb.  I would probably go with something like 45" for 374 stitches in worsted weight though.

Too long a cable and it can get knotted and is more prone to problems at the join--I have a few and I hate that they break.

Answer 2

The rule of thumb is that the length of the circular should not exceed the width (or circumference) of the knit object.  So, if your finished blanket is supposed to be 60 inches wide, you'd use a circular needle LESS than 60 inches long.  Don't get one a lot shorter, just make sure it's not longer.

I'd choose at least a 29-inch circular needle to knit a one-piece afghan or blanket because it's going to get heavy after a while.