Translation guide
A tool used for knitting, typically a long, thin rod. In Japanese, the most common term is 編み針 (amibari), but other related terms exist for specific types.
The standard tool for hand knitting, usually sold in pairs.
The most common and general term for a knitting needle. Used for both straight and circular needles in many contexts.
編み針を買いに行きます。
I'm going to buy knitting needles.
この編み針は竹でできています。
These knitting needles are made of bamboo.
Literally 'stick needle', often used to distinguish straight needles from circular or double-pointed ones. Common in knitting patterns and instructions.
棒針でマフラーを編んでいます。
I'm knitting a scarf with straight needles.
A needle with two pointed ends connected by a flexible cable, used for knitting in the round.
Specifically refers to circular knitting needles. Very common in knitting shops and patterns.
輪針でセーターを編むと楽です。
It's easy to knit a sweater with circular needles.
Another term for circular needle, literally 'round knitting needle'. Less common than 輪針 but still understood.
丸編み針を使って帽子を作ります。
I'll make a hat using circular needles.
A set of needles with points at both ends, used for small-circumference knitting like socks or sleeves.
Literally 'four needles', referring to the typical set of four or five double-pointed needles. Widely used in knitting contexts.
靴下を編むには4本針が必要です。
You need double-pointed needles to knit socks.
Literally 'both-ends needle', a more descriptive term for double-pointed needles. Less common but clear.
両先針は手袋を編むのに便利です。
Double-pointed needles are convenient for knitting gloves.
When counting knitting needles, use the counter 本 (ほん). For example, 1本 (いっぽん), 2本 (にほん), 3本 (さんぼん).