If you suffer from carpal tunnel, repetitive strain injury, or arthritis, you know the frustration that comes from traditional methods of knitting and crocheting. We're here to help!
Ergonomics is the scientific study and discipline of making workspaces and tools that fit the humans that use them. In the past, there wasn't much choice, especially when it came to knitting needles and crochet hooks. Rudimentary sticks were all that was available, leaving knitters and crocheters with hand pain out in the cold.
Luckily, there have been a number of developments, especially in recent years! There are many different styles and types of knitting needles and crochet hooks to choose from now, in a range of types to suit every crafter. Here are some of our favourites from Addi, who handcraft their tools in Germany, and spend years innovating and researching the best ways to serve knitters and crocheters.
Addi's tools are created by crafters, for crafters, using the latest in technology and information to produce new knitting needles and crochet hooks to make knitting and crochet easier and pain-free. Click here to see all Addi needles and hooks.
Types of knitting needles and crochet hooks
Square shaped knitting needles are easier to grip, and sit more naturally in the hands than traditional circular shaped needles. Don't worry, the shape doesn't affect your stitches - and many knitters report that their tension and gauge is better with the square needles!
Wood or bamboo needles are a good choice for knitters too! Cold metal can be more difficult to grip, and hard on the joints as a result. Natural materials will warm in your hands, making for a more comfortable knitting experience.
Crochet hooks are the same in these respects, though we do love the Addi Swing hooks, which are made of plastic, but were designed specially to lay comfortably in the palm for longer crocheting sessions.
Compression gloves for knitting and crochet
In many cases, arthritis, carpal tunnel, and repetitive strain injury are exacerbated by cold temperatures. For this, we love compression gloves, and several of us here at Laughing Hens HQ use them while typing at work, and while we craft. It can feel a little bit clunky or clumsy at first, but it's definitely worth it to not lose our hobbies! These gloves can be found just about anywhere with a quick Google search. There are many different styles and sizes; you can also get ones with special thumb support if that's what you find hurts the most.
Posture for knitting and crochet
Another way to achieve ergonomic knitting and crochet is to improve your posture! We know, we know - no one wants to think about that when they're crafting. Yet, back problems are the second most reported malady after hand pain with knitting and crocheting!
First, be sure to knit or crochet in a seat with good back support. Get up every twenty to thirty minutes and give yourself a big stretch! Staying hunched over that lace pattern in black yarn isn't going to do you any favors. If you're finding that your sofa or seat isn't supporting you enough, there are special cushions you can get to help you out. There's no one-size-fits-all in this area, you'll have to try a few until you find a good fit for your body.
You can also find cushions to sit on that improve your posture by encouraging spine alignment. If you are suffering from back pain, be sure to see your doctor first!
