Maeve’s Favourite Things
This is a collection of tools and bits I reach for again and again while knitting, writing, and recording. Nothing here is fancy or essential, but all of it has earned its place by being genuinely useful. If you’re curious about the real-life tools behind Maeve’s projects, these are the ones I actually use.
Makers Board
I use my makers board to keep track of charts and exactly where I am in a pattern, which saves a lot of muttering and backtracking. The magnets hold charts securely, the ruler makes it easy to keep my place, and it folds away neatly when I need to bring a project with me. It’s sturdy, tidy, and quietly solves a problem every knitter has, which is really all you can ask for.
I have the Cocoknits one (top image), which I got from Wool & Grace in Summit, NJ. They ship US-wide. You will need to add the accessories separately for this one.
There is also a very similar one on Amazon; both links are below.
Interchangeable Needle Kits
I use interchangeable needles almost exclusively because I like being able to swap tips and cables depending on the project, without owning the same needle in multiple lengths. All of my sets are twist on, which means I can mix and match easily and keep my project bags far more sensible than they would otherwise be.
I knit regularly with both LYKKE and Knitters Pride interchangeable needle sets, and reach for them interchangeably depending on what I’m working on. The LYKKE needles have a lovely feel in the hand and are comfortable for longer knitting sessions, while the Knitters Pride sets are sturdy, reliable, and easy to grab when I’m switching between socks, hats, and larger projects.
My LYKKE set came from Wool & Grace, who ship within the US, and I also keep several Knitters Pride sets in both short and regular lengths. Between the two, I can almost always set up exactly what I need without overthinking it, which is really what good tools should do.
Both links are below.
Stitch Fixer
This is one of those tools you hope you won’t need, and then you’re very glad you have it.
I use it to pick up dropped stitches, especially in stockinette, where turning the work back and forth while laddering up is an easy way to miss a strand. Because it’s double-ended, you can repair stitches from one side by pushing the hook through and catching the next strand as you go. It comes in a few sizes and works well with both fine and heavier yarns, and the hook shape is smooth enough that it doesn’t snag surrounding stitches.
A genuine lifesaver when you’ve spotted a mistake several rows too late.