Are you a knitter who learned to knit on straight needles but has never tried circulars? Well, we're big fans here at CraftWorld so we want to convince you to give it a shot - with our top 5 reasons PLUS 5 free patterns!

A lot of knitters find that there is less strain on their hands when working with circular needles. This is partly because the needles themselves are often lighter, but you also have the bulk of the weight of your work sitting in your lap rather than at the end of a straight needle.

TRY IT: Bright Yoke jumper by Bernat, Free pattern download

Keeping the right side of the work facing you for every round means that in Stocking Stitch you only need to work knit stitches - perfect if you don't enjoy purling!

TRY IT: Oxye Top, free for Premium members

Knitting colourwork and other complex stitch patterns can be made easier, because you can always see how your work will look from the front.

TRY IT: Peeping Sheep Hat, free pattern download

If you don't enjoy seaming then knitting in the round is perfect for you as you can create a whole garment in one piece!

TRY IT: Cynthia Pullover by Michelle Hazell, free pattern download

Circular needles are ideal for travelling as they take up less space in your luggage, and stitches are less likely to fall off the end of your needles when your work is in your bag.

TRY IT: Loch Hat by TOFT, free pattern download