There’s a Symfonie 2?
There sure is! Earlier this year, KnitPro announced they were updating their classic Symfonie range of knitting needles and crochet hooks. The original range is being phased out and replaced with Symfonie 2.
Since the announcement, we’ve been asked what the difference is, so we thought we’d break down the changes.
The original Symfonie range
Symfonie needles were the first range we ever stocked at Knitting4Fun, and it’s the range that made us KnitPro converts. They were so different to anything else on the market at the time. With their colourful surface design and lovely lightweight feel, they managed to turn a cult following into a mainstream one, making them one of the leading brands in the UK.
KnitPro soon expanded into crochet hooks too, and it remains one of our most popular ranges for both crafts. We get the love, because we use them too. They’ve been around for many years and if we’re reaching for a wooden needle or hook, we’ll reach for Symfonie. They bring a fab pop of colour to our toolkit, are lovely and warm to the touch, and have a smooth surface without being too polished when we’re working with a yarn that needs a touch of grip.
So, if they’re so good, why are they changing them?
Introduction to Symfonie 2
It seems that perfection can be improved – or at least, the team at KnitPro think so! They introduced Symfonie 2 to the world at H&H Cologne in Spring 2026, and it definitely created a stir.
We had to wait a while to get our hands on some, and we’ve given them a good test run since. We’re delighted to confirm that you get the same performance, with a few subtle differences. The main one is the cable connector, although the biggest buzz was about the colours themselves.
We’re not going to lie – some photos make the new range look very vibrant compared to the original. A lot of the marketing material and influencer posts show super-saturated colours, and if that’s what you’re expecting, you’re probably going to be disappointed. There is a difference, though, as we’ll explain.
Symfonie 2 and original Symfonie needles side by side. We’ve chosen a 5.5mm interchangeable needle tip to show how they compare. Both are brand new.
Symfonie 2 is on the left and original Symfonie is on the right.
Feature differences
Colours
The OG range contains five colours: purple, blue, green, yellow, and red. These colours and the distinctive chevron pattern on the needle was Symfonie’s signature.
Symfonie 2 boasts an additional two colours – orange and pink – taking the total to seven. KnitPro also promise a more intense colour. In person, the colours are certainly richer and more saturated, but this also means they can seem a little darker than the original. They colours also blend together a little more, with less defined separation.
The result is a much subtler change than people might be expecting. We can’t lie, though – we love the updated palette.
Surface texture
The other subtle difference that’s easy to miss at first glance is the change in the surface texture. Symfonie always had a smooth surface, and that’s not altered, but the updated version has more of a polished sheen to it. They aren’t glossy though, and feel identical to the touch, so this shouldn’t make any difference while you work, especially if you’re mixing and matching the two ranges.
The sheen is definitely not us comparing a brand new needle with a well-worn one, as our photos shows comparable needles straight from the packet. That being said, you’ll probably find the sheen settles down and becomes less noticeable the more you work with them and the wood absorbs the oils from your skin.
The originals already allowed yarn to glide across their surface without the frictionless slip of a metal needle or hook, and that’s not changed.
Cable connector design
The design of the cable connectors is the single biggest change, even if it’s not the most obvious one.
The original Symfonie needles featured sturdy cable connections, but sometimes people told us that they were as smooth as they could be. There’s nothing as frustrating as your yarn catching on the connection, and because this range needs to switch from wood to metal, it’s a problem that metal ranges don’t necessarily have because they can mould the connector as part of the needle’s shaft.
It seems to be this frustration that’s driven this relaunch, and if so, it’s worth the overhaul. The new connector is a little shorter and shinier, but most importantly, it’s designed to get rid of any snagging. Early reports support this.
And for anyone who uses Symfonie hooks for Tunisian crochet, this applies to you too!
Fixed circular cables
Here’s another fantastic upgrade – Symfonie 2 fixed circular needles now come with swivel cable connections. This is a move we’re very excited about.
If you haven’t used a swivel cable before, it means the connection turns 360 degrees. As you work, your work moves with you, instead of getting tangled. It’s a gamechanger, resulting in a less frustrating experience. Previously, swivel cables were only available as a separate item to use with interchangeable needles, but the introduction of swivel connections to fixed circular needles means it’s now an option below 3mm and down to sock lengths of 25cm.
On top of that, the cables themselves now come with a stainless steel core. Previously, the cables were pure nylon, which meant they could kink or even break. The new core makes a lot of difference, making them memory-free and much more hardwearing. We’ve got four-year old cables that are still going strong and look brand new.
What remains the same
Tip and hook design
Symfonie needles have never had the same sharp points as metal ranges like Mindful. That makes them great for yarns that are easy to split, or even if you just don’t love a super-pointed needle. And KnitPro have decided if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
The same goes for crochet hooks, which still feature a pointed head and recessed throat. This means whichever tool you pick up, they’ll feel familiar in your hand.
Material
Symfonie 2 is crafted from the same familiar laminated birchwood as before. This makes it warm in your hand and lovely to work with.
Price point
Here’s the good news: any price differences are negligible! This isn’t a case of relaunching a range to hike the price, and you’ll find we’re charging the same price on new items as we charged on their old equivalent. And, of course, the range is covered by KnitPro’s 12 month guarantee.
Which range is right for me?
If you loved the original Symfonie, we’re confident you’ll love the new range. The changes are subtle but definitely seem like upgrades to us. If you already have a beloved set of needles or hooks and need to add to them, the differences aren’t so glaring that it feels like starting over with a new range either.
As for which range is right for you, the question is a bit redundant. KnitPro no longer make the original range, so it’s going to be come difficult to find it once existing stocks sell out. But don’t mourn the loss if it’s your favourite range, as the switch to the new one will feel seamless.
Don’t forget that we’re offering up to 35% off while stocks last!
Final thoughts
In summary, both ranges are very similar with some easy-to-miss differences between them. While Symfonie 2 aims to enhance your experience with improved colour options, surface texture, and cable connector design, these changes are subtle updates compared to the original. Despite that, we predict Symfonie 2 is destined to become a classic, just like the originals.
FAQs
1. Are Symfonie 2 needles and hooks suitable for all types of yarn?
Yes, Symfonie 2 needles and hooks are designed to work well with a variety of yarn types, including wool, acrylic, and cotton. Their smooth surface and tip design work well with all kind of fibres and don’t have the glossy slip of a metal surface, which is great if you prefer a little extra control.
2. How do I maintain my Symfonie needles and hooks?
To maintain your Symfonie needles, wipe them gently with a soft cloth to remove any residue after use. Avoid soaking them in water or using harsh chemicals, as this can damage the wood and finish. Over time, the oils in your skin can affect the surface, so keeping them clean helps prevent damage.
3. Can I mix and match the needles or hooks from both ranges?
Yes, if you already own Symfonie tools, the differences in the new range are very subtle. This means you’re unlikely to notice much difference between them, and Symfonie 2 will feel very familiar in your hand.
4. Should I swap from Symfonie to Symfonie 2?
Don’t rush to throw out your original Symfonie! If you need to add new needles or hooks to your collection, Symfonie 2 should fit in well. While you won’t be able to buy new Symfonie tools, any you already own should last you for a long time. The only reason to replace them is if you want to try the new cables on the fixed circular needles or you want to test the new cable connectors.
5. Which range is better for beginners?
The differences are so subtle that if you’re a beginner, you probably won’t notice. If you’re new to knitting or crochet, start with Symfonie 2 so you get the benefit of the improvements.