ChiaoGoo Forte 2.0 Needle set

ChiaoGoo Forte 2.0 Interchageable needle set

The wait is over -- last year, ChiaoGoo introduced their fabulous Forte set, which sold out almost instantly.  I was lucky enough to get ten sets because I had pre-ordered them at H+H the previous summer. Then nothing.  Not available at any price.

At H+H this year, I was lucky enough to snag a set of the tips they're using for the small gauge needles in their Forte 2.0 set, and I will tell you, they are lovely.  Just as smooth and black as the original shafts, but much stronger. While none of my customers had issues with the small shafts in their sets, some users did, so this was a very smart move by ChiaoGoo. 

What are ChiaoGoo Forte 2.0 needles made of?

The needle shafts in both sets are made from materials used for fine musical instruments.  The larger are from African Blackwood, which is luxurious, but slightly brittle.  I understand that the finer needle shafts were not standing up to the torque that some knitters put on their needles.  

To solve this, the team at ChiaoGoo turned to another material that, like African Blackwood, is often used for luxury musical instruments--carbon fiber.  

Why carbon fiber knitting needles?

This material is beautiful and smooth, but more stronger and less brittle. In fact, carbon fiber is five times stronger than steel and as lovely and smooth as African Blackwood.  

ChiaoGoo also responded to the mixed response their SWIV 360 received.  Some knitters love the swiveling cables which they say eases strain on the wrist. Others found their yarn catching in the small space at the swivel join.  ChiaoGoo is including a set of three small Red Twist cables in Forte 2.0 so you can choose to swivel or not.  

Forte 2.0 is still a beautiful all-in-one set with needles and notions all in a zippered case that tucks easily in your bag so you're ready with everything you need.  

Delivery is early 2024, and quantity is limited.  If you are interested in the Forte 2.0, order right away. I do not expect to have them available for open stock, as the response has been overwhelming.