Using these addi Turbo Circular Needles is a breeze. Just thread your yarn through the needle tip and start knitting as you normally would. The smooth nickel coating helps the yarn slide easily, so you can work on your projects faster. When it comes to the non - standard sizing, always double - check the actual size if you're following a pattern that requires a specific needle size. As for maintenance, keep the needles clean by wiping them gently with a soft cloth after use. Avoid bending the cords too harshly to maintain their flexibility. And since the US 36 and US 50 tips are plastic, be careful not to scratch or break them.