Hi Knitters, I found a seller on ebay who is selling sets of 12 bamboo needles in both straight and circulars in graduated sizes for $9.99 to $15 for twelve needles. She has testimonials from other ebay sales about the quality and smoothness of the needles. I looks like a cheap way to build a great set of needles. Here's her seller's list for future purchases if you're interested.

http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZjian0028