As stated in a previous post, I often have socks on my needles. The socks below are using the US1 2" needles with a 5" cable.
This sock is cuff down, and I'm close to coming up to the toe. I was able to use nothing but the Shorties to get to this point. I used the Fish Lips Kiss Heel. I'm going to try using it for the toe as well. If I like the end results, I will probably only use that toe from now on. I really like the idea of being able to use the Shorties for the entire sock. I will post more about how that goes once the pair is finished.
Next up is the specifics of these needles. They come with everything you need to get started including a fabric pouch, tip sleeve, cables, stitch markers, t-pins, end stoppers, and a needle gauge. The needles are US sizes 0-3. There are 2" and 3" needles for each set. They can make 9"-14" circulars.
The set has US sizes 0, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, and 3 in both 2" and 3". The shorter length is perfect for socks. I have used the longer lengths for for sweater sleeves. The ChiaoGoo website calls the sleeve a "secure tip sleeve". Most times I open the set, all needles are their places, but a handful of times some of the 2" needles have slipped from their spot. I have never dropped one because of it, but I have learned that I need to be a little wary when opening the sleeve. I am glad that they made it a snap closure. As mentioned above, the missing set is on my current sock project.
Both needles, pictured below, are US1.5. This better shows the sizing difference between the 2" and the 3".
The size is laser imprinted on the needles, but it can be difficult to read sometimes, especially on these small needles, which makes the needle gauge a nice addition. The sizing is facing up in the above picture. The ruler edge can be useful as well.
Three mini diameter cables are included. If you are not familiar with ChiaoGoo needles, there are three different size diameter cables: mini, small, and large. The lengths in this set are 5", 6", and 8". As mentioned, this gives the capability to make 9"-14" circulars. The 5" cable is not pictured since it is on my sock project.
Last of all is the little baggie of accessories. I have come to really like the ChiaoGoo stitch markers. They are a good size. They aren't bulky, getting in the way of the neighboring stitches. Also, they are a bright color so you can easily see where the round ends. There are also t-pins included to assist in tightening the cables. I have never had an issue of the cable loosening after using the t-pins. Lastly, are the end stoppers. I haven't had an occasion to use them yet, but I can see how they would be useful.
I have used this set on a few pairs of socks, and been able to experiment with them. I have learned, for me, I really like to use them with fairly simple patterns. When I have tried them with a more complicated pattern, such as cables, they can be harder to use. You don't have much space to be able to maneuver with the short needles and cable. For lighter weight yarn, these are my go to for sleeves as well. One negative I have seen some people not like is how very small they are. If you have joint issues, or just prefer larger needles, these may not be the set for you.
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