Using these KnitPro Mindful Collection circular needles is a breeze. For lace knitting, the stainless - steel tips give you the precision you need. Just start your stitches as you normally would, and let the smooth cables guide your work. When it comes to daily knitting projects, they'll work just as well. Remember, the cables are marked every inch, so you can measure your work easily while you knit. As for maintenance, keep them in a dry place to prevent rusting. You can clean them gently with a soft cloth. If you notice any dust or debris on the needles or cables, a quick wipe will do. And don't worry about the new packaging; the quality of these tools is as good as ever, so enjoy your knitting with peace of mind.