5 DPNs

I'm half way through my first pair of socks using 5 double pointed needles (DPNs). I'm still not sold on that method's superiority to using 4 DPNs, although it does have its benefits:

• The toe decreases are a million times easier
• Pattern repeats split better
• The needles aren't strained by too many stitches
• They make it easier to try on the sock while you are knitting it

However, there are also drawbacks:

• It feels like it takes longer to complete a row
• It is one more needle to have to hold together, especially when you are just starting your piece
• If you lose a needle (or sit on one and break it), you are in trouble
• They mean more ends to poke yourself with when you put down your project

I think for now I'm going to stick with the method outlined in the pattern. I'm not nervous about using 5 DPNs, but I don't feel the need to use them on every pair of socks I make with DPNs.

Oh yes, I finished my first spiral boot sock: