Size 50 Circular Knitting Needles Michaels: What to Know Before You Buy

Updated November 2026

Michaels doesn’t always stock size 50 circular knitting needles on its shelves, and the “size 50” label can be confusing because it refers to a metric measurement rather than a US size number. Size 50 needles are 50 metric millimeters in diameter, which is an extremely large needle used for bulky arm-knitting, chunky blankets and specialty projects. Check the store’s inventory online first, since carrying of large sizes varies by location.

Why size 50 is hard to find in craft stores

Most craft store circular needle sets top out well below 50 mm. Standard interchangeable sets commonly run from about 2 mm to 15 mm, and jumbo sets extend to 25 mm or so. A 50 mm needle is more of a specialty item, often sold as a single fixed circular or as a loop designed for finger-knitting-scale projects. That is why a search for it at Michaels can turn up nothing, even when the store carries plenty of other circular needles.

Factors that affect what you’ll find

Three things determine whether a size 50 needle is available to you:

• Store inventory: Large-size stock varies by location and changes seasonally. Online listings can differ from what sits on the shelf.
• Measurement system: Some packages list US sizes (US 50 does not exist in the usual range; the largest common US size is around 50 in the old scale, which is a different unit). Always confirm whether the listing is in millimeters.
• Cable length: A jumbo needle with a short cable may be sold as a “jumbo circular,” while longer cables are sold separately. Check the cable length against your project width.

What to do if Michaels doesn’t carry it

1. Search the Michaels website for “jumbo circular knitting needles” and filter by millimeter size.
2. Use the in-store pickup option to confirm stock before driving over.
3. Check whether your project really needs 50 mm. Many bulky patterns call for 15 to 25 mm needles, and a jumbo set may cover what you need.
4. Measure your planned stitch gauge with a swatch before committing to a size, since needle diameter alone does not set the final fabric.
5. Look for a yarn-shop or specialty retailer if you need the exact diameter.

What we’d use

For a true 50 mm circular, look for a dedicated jumbo or arm-knitting needle. View on Amazon lists large-diameter options that are closer to what this size requires.

If you only need a large but more common size for a chunky project, a jumbo interchangeable set is more versatile. View on Amazon gives you a range of big sizes and cable options in one purchase.

For broader sizing guidance, see Circular Knitting Needles Michaels: How to Buy the Right Set (2026), and for compact options, Smallest Circular Knitting Needles: A Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing Tiny Sizes covers the opposite end of the scale. Those with a bulky project in mind may also find Top 5 Interchangeable Circular Knitting Needles with Multiple Sizes (2026) useful.

FAQ

Does Michaels sell size 50 circular knitting needles?

Stock of 50 mm needles is limited and varies by store. Check the Michaels website or call your local store before visiting.

Is size 50 the same as US size 50?

No. Size 50 refers to 50 millimeters. US sizing uses a different scale, so check the unit on any package before buying.

Can I substitute a smaller jumbo needle?

Often yes, but a smaller needle changes your stitch gauge and fabric size. Knit a swatch first to confirm the result matches your pattern.

Related reading

• US 7 Circular Knitting Needles: What the Size Means and Which to Buy
• Size 8 Circular Knitting Needles: A Practical Guide (2026)

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