Recommended Products
This is a list of the products that I recommend based on my experience. I'm in Canada but if the exact brand is not available in your country try to find the closest option possible. Sometimes products may be out of stock and not show up when you click on the link, if this happens you may have to search on Amazon for another seller. You may be able to find some products like wires and yarns in local stores on sale as well.
Full disclosure: When you buy using the links below I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you but again these are recommendations and you can choose any brand you like.
Caydo Electric i-Cord Knitting Machine i1 Pro
The top of the line Caydo Pro is by far the most advanced i-Cord knitter machine available on the market. I was hesitant to buy it at first because I had tried the smaller one and didn't like it. But I have to say, this machine is a game changer. It's fully electric and mostly hands-free, producing consistent cords quickly and reliably, ideal for hard-core hobbyists or craft businesses handling bigger volumes. It's definitely pricey (around US $150–$160 based on current listings), but if you can afford it and need speed without the fatigue, it's worth every penny.
Tulip i-Cord Knitter Machine
This is the exact machine that I used daily for all my creations (until I started using the Sew Mate and now the Caydo Pro), and the one featured in the course. It's the more expensive manual option, made by a respected Japanese company that's been around for over 75 years. I've tried most of the cheaper machines on the market and think they're awful, so use your discretion. In my opinion, this is the best manual i-Cord knitter out there and my top recommendation for most people starting out or needing a solid, high-quality, reliable tool. Great for hobbyists and craft businesses alike. There's something very rewarding about making your own i-cord on the Tulip that you just don't get with an electric knitter.
Caydo Electric i-Cord Knitting Machine (Smaller Model)
The smaller Caydo is a solid entry-level electric i-cord knitter with great reviews overall. I personally prefer the Pro because I need higher volumes, faster production, and the tighter, higher-quality cords it produces. But I totally get why it appeals to beginners. It's electric, so you skip the cranking of manual knitters and some of the learning curve. (Note: It's not fully hands-free; you still handle yarn setup, hooks, weights, and occasional adjustments, just like manuals or even the Pro.) A good affordable step up if you're starting with electric options and don't need max speed yet.
Sew Mate i-Cord Knitter Machine
I've used this i-Cord knitter until very recently, and the experience has been exactly the same as with the brand I've been recommending. It's build quality and overall performance match the most expensive ones but at a much lower price. I’m excited to offer it directly here in my store for a discount, so you can try it for yourself. I've tried most of the cheaper machines in the market and I think they're awful so use your discretion. In my opinion, this is a case of "you get what you pay for".
Update: This knitter is currently out of stock.
Wire
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9 Gauge (3mm) Craft Wire
View on AmazonThis is the type of wire I use for names. As a beginner, you may find it easier to use 2mm.
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16 Gauge (1.5 mm) Craft Wire
View on AmazonThis is the wire I use for smaller decorations like the mini letters to hang on Christmas trees.
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12 Gauge (2 mm) Craft Wire
View on AmazonAlso for smaller decorations like the mini letters. Good for beginners as it's easier to bend.
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12 Gauge (2 mm) 20 Color Craft Wire
View on AmazonPerfect for smaller decorations like the mini letters. Great for beginners and very easy to bend.
Mercerized Cotton Yarn
This is one of the brands that I use and I find it easy to work with but you can find other similar brands locally as well.
Pliers
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Long Nose Pliers
View on AmazonI couldn't find the ones I use, but these ones seem like a good option and they have great reviews. If you have a pair lying around then you don't need new ones.
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Regular Pliers
View on AmazonYou can use any pliers you want. My husband had pliers but if you don't have any, these are highly rated. For some people the long nose pliers are enough.
Large Eye Blunt Needles
I bought these ones on Amazon too and have been using them since I started this journey. They're very good and also a good a good deal in my opinion.
LED Lights
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15 Pack 7FT(2M) LED String Lights
View on AmazonI use these LED lights in the larger pieces so that I don't waste unnecessarily. You may find other similar brands as well.
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30 Pack 3.28FT(1M) LED String Lights
View on AmazonI use these LED lights in the smaller pieces. You may find other similar brands as well on Amazon and even in local stores.
Yarn Ball Winder
This is certainly not required to make knitted wire art pieces but it's definitely a great tool that will make your life much easier if you are serious about this craft.
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