When I first started knitting, I stuck to the basics. As I grew in confidence and skill, though, I upgraded some of my tools. But it wasn’t until the last couple of years that I started using pretty stitch markers for my knitting projects.
I realized there was added value in something being both useful and pretty. I like working with pretty tools. I like how it feels when I pick up a pair of decorative scissors versus a pair of plain scissors. So I started buying pretty stitch markers here and there. I’ve got a small collection now, and I realized I definitely have my favorites that I go to again and again. Here are my top stitch markers for knitting right now.
Autumn Poppy Designs
Paula Drouillard is the the designer behind Autumn Poppy Designs, where she makes both knitting patterns and stitch markers. What I love about Paula’s stitch markers is that they are lightweight and minimal, but still dainty. Paula’s stitch markers usually have a small charm and a small bead or two on them, and that’s it. It makes them excellent for knitters who don’t want to add a ton of bulk to their projects.
I got myself a small set of stitch markers with hexagon rings and blue beads from Sassafras Knits. Since then, this has become my go-to set. I love having matching stitch markers for my larger projects like sweaters, and these ones are great for those projects because they don’t add a ton of heft but are highly decorative. The rings are also lightweight enough that they are good for using on smaller projects, like socks and mitts. Sometimes, stitch markers can have a ring that is a little bulky. That’s especially common with the hexies, but these ones pass the sock test.
If you, like me, love yourself some miniature things, you need to hurry on over to Little Bitty Delights and score yourself some teeny tiny food asap. Manda is one of the most talented miniaturists I have ever encountered. On top of the cuteness, Manda’s attention to detail is exquisite. There have been several times where I have wanted to actually reach into her Instagram post and take a bite out of the tiny, fake food she’s making. That’s how realistic it looks.
Ocean by the Sea
I am the proud and slightly obsessed owner of a single, perfect, precious stitch marker by Ocean by the Sea. When I use this stitch marker, I feel a little bit like some decadent Renaissance-era Noble woman, a modern-day Lucrezia Borgia with stainless steel needles. Ocean’s stitch markers are even harder to snag than her yarn. Your best bet, then, is to follow her on Instagram and turn on post notifications. She’ll generally let everybody know ahead of time when an update with stitch markers is coming.