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Home › Knitting abbreviations › dpn: Double-pointed needles

dpn: Double-pointed needles

A set of short needles with points at both ends, used for small circumference knitting such as socks, sleeves and hats. This one refers to the tools rather than a stitch, and tells you what to work with.

How to work dpn

A set of short needles with points at both ends, used for small circumference knitting such as socks, sleeves and hats.

Common mistake

Letting stitches slide off the open ends; use point protectors during breaks.

Effect on your stitch count

It does not change the stitch count by itself.

Related abbreviations

All terms are in the knitting abbreviations list, and in the app's Glossary, which works offline.

Frequently asked questions

What does dpn stand for?

dpn stands for double-pointed needles.

Does dpn change the number of stitches?

It does not change the stitch count by itself.

Last updated 7 November 2026. Stitchlight is an independent app; this page is written for readers, not for search engines. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.

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