Prism99

Thanks to everyone for their comments! I never thought to check for knitting sets on eBay.

Based on what I have been reading here and elsewhere, I think I will opt for either a set of bamboo or the Knitpicks. I had thought about getting circular needles or double-pointed, but realized that there are plenty of patterns for straight needles so will start with those. Since these are doll clothes, I figure the shorter straight needles (10") should work fine.

Ravelry is wonderful for patterns! I have been saving patterns from there as PDFs to my computer so I can access them later. It has really sparked my interest in trying my hand at knit and crochet again. We are trying to get this big house ready to put on the market, so I need to keep my quilting stash contained and out-of-sight (and possibly in storage for awhile). Figured I could get by with a single large plastic tote if I took up making doll clothes for awhile. I think it will be a fun change of pace for me.

saor

I personally go for the Bryspuns or the carbon fiber ones... I like when the warm up from using them, makes it easier on me. Additionally, I find the bamboo too sticky and the metal too slippery. So either the Bryspun or carbons are a happy medium.

http://www.paradisefibers.com/knitti...g-needles.html

http://www.yarn.com/webs-carbon-fiber-knitting-needles/

The carbons travel (plane/car rides) very, very, well and the bryspuns handle punishment like no bodies business (they are also arthritis certified). Raverly is a great resource and I tend to spend way to many hours on there instead of making things lol. Good luck with your search.

CAS49OR

Prism have you heard of Knitting Paradise? It's a site a lot like this one specifically for knitters and crochet. I don't know what needles to recommend. I love my Knit Picks but they are not made in the same place any more and are now getting a lot of complaints posted about them.

knittingparadise.com

nancia

i use sizes 2 and 3. i usually find a yarn that is heavier than baby, lighter than sport. i'm very hands on in choosing my yarn. there are books out there for knitted clothes. i love hand made sweaters, but honestly, i'm not crazy about knitting.