Top 5 Notions You Need In Your Project Bag

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No matter where you are on your fiber path, there is no doubt that the world of notions can be overwhelming. There are so many extra bits and bobs to make life easier! And oh, so many options for each. But . . . which ones do you really need, and which are just nice to have?

In this article, we’re drilling down to the basics and sharing our top 5 list of notions you need in your project bag. This list is for both knitters and crocheters alike! It doesn’t matter if you use needles or a hook; these are universal must-haves for anyone who works with yarn. Plus, we’re sharing a few of the specific brands of notions you’ll find in the project bags of Interweave’s editorial team—because oh my do we work with a lot of yarn and use a lot of notions.

#1 – Sharp Scissors

Well, yeah, of course this is the number one notion on the list! Scissors are essential when working with yarn. Sure, you could get by just using the scissors that are in your junk drawer, but at some point, you’ll want something better. When you’re ready to invest in scissors dedicated to living in your project bag, the best option is something compact, yet sharp.

Embroidery scissors work well for this, but there are many manufacturers making scissors specifically for knit and crochet. They’re often referred to as “yarn snips” rather than scissors. Bryspun’s black steel scissors are great yarn snips. Plus, these scissors come in a leather sheath that keeps your stitches safe when both your scissors and your project are in the same bag.

Related: MacGyver Those Knitting Notions

#2 – Accurate Tape Measure

If you’re making projects where gauge is vital or which require you to stitch for a specific length before changing colors or pattern, you’ll need an accurate tape measure. Having one that’s retractable means it won’t get tangled with your yarn or go rolling away across the floor when you need it!

Many companies give away retractable tape measures as freebies at fiber shows or with yarn purchases. Those are great! However, if you want something a bit nicer, not branded, and not inclined to break easily, go for Bias Bespoke’s Leather-Covered Retractable Tape Measure. The quality of the tape is excellent and it is easy to read with metric on one side, imperial on the other.

#3 – Removable Stitch Markers

There are almost as many reasons to mark a stitch on your project as there are stitch marker styles to choose from! You need them to mark the beginning of a round, the underarms of a garment, sections of a row where specific pattern changes happen . . . the list goes on and on. Stitch markers are vital to the success of so many projects. Removable stitch markers are particularly handy in that you don’t run the risk of accidentally stitching them permanently into your project.

The options for styles of removable stitch markers are truly endless. Many sellers on Etsy make markers with dangles that range from cute and novel to sleek and sophisticated. The most important thing after you finding an aesthetic you like is to make sure they’re not too heavy nor bulky in width. You can throw off your gauge on either side of a marker if your marker is too big.

#4 – Bent-Tip Tapestry Needle

Weaving in your yarn ends is an important step in finishing a project. You don’t want to leave your ends just flapping in the breeze, nor do you want to tie a knot and just cut the tail short. Securing the ends of yarn into your stitches will keep your project from unraveling and create a neat, professional finish. Blunt tapestry needles work well. Bent-tip tapestry needles work even better!

Spend a couple of minutes reading the reviews for bent-tip tapestry needles and you’ll see countless comments that echo the sentiment, “I didn’t know how useful a bent needle was and now I’ll never use anything else.” The bend in the tip allows you to easily maneuver the end of the needle into the stitches much more easily than a straight tip. Trust us on this.

#5 – A Notions Bag

Yes, a notions bag in your project bag makes our top 5 list! It can be so frustrating rummaging through your project bag trying to find your tools. Stitch markers floating around uncontained can easily get lost in a ball of yarn. Diving in your bag for scissors can make your project bag feel deeper than Mary Poppins’ carpet bag. However, if you keep everything organized in a smaller bag within your project bag you can greatly improve your making experience.

You can even stitch a notions bag! For knitters, try out Kyle Kunnecke’s stranded knitting workshop and make a notions pouch while you learn. For crocheters, whip up Brenda K. B. Anderson’s adorable notions pouch embellished with a bee and heart motifs. The bee and hearts are optional if you prefer a simpler design!

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Did your favorite notion make our top 5 list? We’d love to hear what you can’t make without. Share your must-have notions in the comments below.

-Kerry Bogert
Content Manager, Yarn

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