REVIEW: The Knit Kit 2010

The Knit Kit 2010
Where To Find: The Knit Kit

I reviewed the original Knit Kit a year ago (click here to read) and was a bit underwhelmed after all the hype. While it certainly served a much needed purpose in the knitting world, especially for those traveling by plane, I felt there were some improvements that could be taken for future versions. Apparently someone was listening because a year later Barbara Barry, founder and innovator of The Knit Kit, contacted me about reviewing version 2.0, or the Knit Kit 2010.

The Knit Kit 2010 appears to be much the same as the original, except for three things: the turquoise color, addition of a darning needle and the mini crochet hook is now double ended (great for sock knitters). As with the original, a row counter, tape measure, thread cutter, folding scissors, stitch markers and point protectors are also included in the 4.75" x 3.5" x 5/8" plastic kit that reatails for $19.95 and is TSA approved. I am happy to see these improvements and love the turquoise color, but I'm still lobbying for the addition of a cable needle and needle gauge. I'd also love to see the kits made in the USA, but that's a completely different can of worms.

Since its launch in January, 2009, The Knit Kit has made a profound mark in the knitting world. The swiss-army-like gadget can now be found in local yarn stores all across the country, as well as internationally. In fact, Ms. Barry is now closing in on $800,000 in sales (insert your own "Why didn't I think of that?" here)! She's reinvesting some of the profit back into the business and has plans to create more ingenious kits for the craft market, including quilters.

As if the admiration of the knitting community isn't enough, Martha Stewart recently discovered The Knit Kit 2010 and featured it on The Martha Stewart Show.

Martha Stewart and Barbara Barry

If you'll be traveling by plane, The Knit Kit makes a great addition to your carry-on bag! With it's small size, The Knit Kit is also handy to toss in your purse, your car's glove compartment, your desk drawer or just about anywhere you want to stash essential notions.