I spent 24 hours with the Sentro (and knit two sweaters)

[@Ms_Dees_Creations]

I am a crocheter and I have the Sentro and have made many beanies, scarfs, stuffed animals and even a dog sweater. Casting on properly is important. It can not compare to the machines that you use however it is a fun machine to use. I would have never imagined doing a sweater on the machine Amazing!!!

[@28pinkdancer]

this is my favorite "i spent 24hrs [crafting]" video! you went in depth about your thought process, the mistakes and how you handled them, and the techniques you wanted to work on, rather than just show some timelapse footage and the end results. i feel like I learned a lot about knit construction and I wasn't expecting that at all!

[@Grova]

T for tube, P for panel. Another KZbinr (I forget who) took her Sentro apart and showed that when it’s in panel mode, the switch just physically blocks a nub on the inner ring and keeps it from rotating past that point. It doesn’t make the machine suddenly able to knit panels, it just prevents you from accidentally knitting the edges of the panel together. You can make panels in tube mode but can’t make tubes in panel mode

[@felicityjohnston9276]

Yes you can you just end by sewing the edges together.🙃

[@MaryBethDozier]

I have been crocheting for years and I have a Sentro m!achine and I Love this machine. Casting on properly is a must and key. I have made several things on the Sentro machine and it doesn't give me problems like what have been shown in the video. It will never do what a big fancy knitting machine does but it is great when you can't afford a fancy machine.

[@mewsie80]

I suspect that the machines are very inconsistent. My friend has one that she sat down at and churned out beanies within the hour. I got one and have constant problems with it (she has the same issues on my machine). To be expected for a plastic toy but I do feel like a lot of the luck people have had is down to just that - luck in receiving a “good” machine.

[@bluna8785]

I think it's not comparable... addis and sentros are toys and flatbed machines are to produce seriously. If you are a professional knitter like I am, you definitely need more flexibility, more needles on the bed, the possibility of a double bed etc... BUT if anybody is happy with such a plastic toy - wonderful and nothing to complain about. Lots of love from Germany!

[@diyangeluk]

I totally agree with you. ❤ I am a hand knitter but I own a sentro and have also owned a proper silver knitting machine but I ended up selling it as it creates thin knitted material. I only use the sentro for hats as I do not enjoy making clothes with it as it is honestly more like a toy😂. Nothing beats hand knitting ❤

[@joseapar]

Totally agree with you as well. These are not real comparisons. Also i got my sentro for $15 on FB marketplace at which point its a 10th the cost of a knitting machine, even a bond and while not perfect, i can use for making hats and other holiday gifts.

[@kittenkorleone2918]

You get what you pay for applies here.

[@laurendisney]

I'm going to be honest, it feels like you went into this with your mind already made up. The Sentro and Addi machines are not meant to be comparable to a flatbed machine, nor are they meant to be capable of doing all a flatbed can do. They're meant for people who cannot afford the cost and/or space of a flatbed, or who want something small for simple projects. I'm in the former category, even $100 is pricey for me and I barely have the space to set up a Sentro, let alone a flatbed machine. I've made quick hats for my kids, less than an hour each and most of that on hand finishing. I've also made myself two long cardigans and a matching one for my middle. I've had very few issues, except a tucked stitch here and there... which, unlike you, I fixed before proceeding. It's quite simple to fix them, and I'm baffled that you just shrugged and continued. While it's admirable that you gave large projects a go on the Sentro, at the end of it all you didn't seem at all like you wanted to give it a fair shake. You went in disliking it, you made no effort to fix even the simplest things, tried to make it do things it's really not meant to do, and didn't seem like you were at all open to changing your mind even the slightest. It's very fortunate that you have the space and money for flatbed knitting machines.

[@sandramika6710]

I crochet, but I bought the sentro 48 to see if it would be something I would like, I liked it very much, so I also purchased the 40, 32, 22. I wasn't about to spend a whole lot just to find I didn't like it. I haven't had any issues with my sentros.

[@01mutter]

Exactly my thought. Not casting on the right way. Not securing the sentro. Kinda like setting yourself up for failure and blaming it on the machine. And a “pro” tip. If the counter stops working then take it out.

[@studywithme7677]

Essentially, the sentro is just a plastic toy. The things you can make on them are of far inferior quality. It doesn't matter how many pompons, leather tags or other embellishments you add to an item, if the knit quality is poor the item is poor. Period.

[@sandramika6710]

@studywithme7677 the addi is also plastic , only the inside is metal, and that's why it's suppose to be pretty loud. I don't own an addi but I have watched reviews on it. I'm planning to get one, but I need to master a panel first. I haven't been able to make an exceptable panel yet, and that's on me, not the circular machine.

[@studywithme7677]

@@sandramika6710 All the circular machines knit very loosely and very poorly. If you have room, I'd recommend the LK150 flatbed, you can do so much more with a flatbed.

[@24carrotgold8]

I knit over 100 sweaters for charity on my Bond knitting machine. I got bored with plain colors or stripes so I bought a vintage 12 punch card Singer and now decorate the neck areas with snowflakes, bunnies, hearts or whales. I punch my own cards. ❄ 🐇 ❤ 🐳😊👍

[@PeterDonahue-uh4bd]

That's awesome

[@JessicasCreativeSpot]

Are there any tricks or tips to punching your own cards? It sounds fantastic!

[@vivienlee610]

I've never heard of that!

[@suzannehaney966]

I do use the Sentro successfully with worsted weight yarns to make charity hats and blankets… but with a motor attachment I bought on Etsy. Works great, and if I use the yarns my machine “likes” it doesn’t tuck nor drop stitches. It’s def not the same as flat bed machine knitting, but can be useful in ways my flat bed machines aren’t.

[@vivienlee610]

I got the electrical attachment for the 48 sentro. It's great for doing tubes for hats and scarves. I can't believe that all that cranking people do is good for the body.

[@iokheaira]

Samm Yeap on YT has a vid with short rows on an Addi without waste yarn and - I agree it's making a toy do things it's not designed for, but also I find it fun to watch people push gadgets beyond their limits. I think a lot of the defensiveness about the Addi/Sentro is because many people genuinely just want to crank out tubes and rectangles to make simple beanies or things like knit quilt blankets or non-shaped sweaters out of fairly thick yarn, and, crucially, they want someone that looks easy and non-intimidating to do it with. And it's fine to love that! The problem is more the people who will get frustrated with the limitations but don't know enough about knitting machines in general to make an informed decision before buying, because there are some hard limits to the machine, no matter how you hack it.

[@CoffeeCakeCrumble]

I'm a hand knitter by nature. I have a flat bed and found it tedious. Fascinated by the Sentro, bought one, it worked for a while, enough frustration, then started making horrible noises. Turned out the teeth on the inner cone were ground down and the gear was just slipping and it wasn't turning. Replaced the cone, then it was hard to crank by hand. If I didn't use the PERFECT yarn it would literally scream bloody murder at me. I NEVER mastered the panel. Also had the little 22 pin version. Wore it out fast. They're in the barn now and I use Addi 22 and 46 for fast projects to use up random yarn scraps for OOAK hats.

[@brendawydeven2934]

Put your yarn in the tensioner. These machines also don't like certain yarns. I usually cast on weighing the tail. Put in tensioner and away I go.

[@brendabradley3437]

Do 110 row for a beanie and 130 to 140 for fold up brim. If your machine was solid on the table that would help too.

[@keelieyohara7246]

I am seeing people who open up their plastic circular knitters and clean and lubricate the "needles" with Armorall or white lithium grease. It makes them run and knit much easier.

[@rainieraine1192]

Gosh you have more patience than me, well done for persevering and actually making a wearable sweater. Thank you for taking the time to thoroughly test it and to share the results. I’m sticking to my flatbed

[@GlasPthalocyanine]

It took me a couple of weeks to get to grips with one of these machines (addi). I frogged the first 4 or 5 pieces. You have to get into a consistent rhythm of turning the handle that seems to be different for each yarn. It helps if you clamp the machine to a table which I wasn't able to do because I was bed-bound.

[@teacat55]

Your cast on issue might be because you are supposed to leave the yarn off the little pink tower on the second round, and then attach it to the pink slot and slowly revolve a few more rounds before you spin more rapidly. It needs 2 revolutions to “cast on” before any tension is added. The more rounds you go, the more weight the project has to keep it on hook,

[@lovefulS06]

when casting on you don't need to worry about those in between pegs. Just under one hook then around the other. I'm still toward the beginning of the video so I'll probably have more insight. It's definitely different than the flat bed. I've made sweaters on both.

[@clairelee7801]

I have made tons of gates and scarves and, using the tension gauge, the knits are super neat and even.

[@cathyrish8482]

I started with an Addi 46 2 years ago and have made dozens of charity hats that are big enough for a mans head. The normal knitting variables apply such as type of yarn and tension but it can be done. It remains my go to machine for double knit hats and scarfs but am trying to learn my LK150 and hope to be proficient before I retire. I LOVE the flexibility of the LK150 and am looking forward to making some beautiful items. I'm not fond of my Sentro. Love your videos, they are extremely helpful and thank you for sharing!

[@loriken7]

I love my LK150. I have two other machines with ribbers and punch cards but I haven't learned either of those yet because there's so much I can do with the LK150. In addition to this channel (a fabulous resource and the inspiration for me buying an LK150 in the first place), there are several other YT channels that feature LK150 tutorials. I also recommend joining an online (or if you're lucky, local) group to take advantage of the knowledge of all the experienced machine knitters out there.

[@richellewridgway257]

I agree 100%. I bought myself a flatbed and bought my kids a sentro. They got soooo frustrated so I tried it out to see what the problem was - it's just just crap. Total waste of money. I've started teaching them knitting with regular needles now.

[@IcyKeith92]

You sound like a Master Teacher who knows what they're doing and giving classes for 1k per class. Yet are so humble and make this video for us to view for free. I really appreciate it!!!!

[@Hotloom_Creations]

I think as with anything there is a learning curve to get where you can make a project you are happy with. Just because this is a “toy machine” doesn’t mean you can just crank out a good product quickly. You have to learn the machine. Learn which yarns work. How to tension your yarn. How to cast on and off (there are several different ways), etc… I spent a good month learning and watching videos. Tighter tension means tighter stitches. And when in doubt add weight. Don’t toss it yet. It’s great for charity work.

[@UndertheNeedle282]

Some of us don't want a knitting machine. I have a Sentro and I'm happy with it. I don't use it often but I can crank out a hat or a scarf quickly without a large investment. It works for me but I don't think it's fair to compare it to a real knitting machine. If I start to actually use it more I'll upgrade to an Addi.

[@tinamitchell8735]

This has recommended yarn types .

[@lauraberkholtz7959]

I wish Ravelry would differentiate flatbed machine from Sentro/Addi machine from sock machine knitting patterns. They are all lumped under "machine knitting" and it makes it hard to find anything.

[@TracyR4]

I don’t have my Sentro quite yet (waiting for it to come in the mail), but have taken the time to watch videos on it and I can tell you right off the bat your not casting it on right. You need to put the yarn in the tensioner. It maybe very beneficial for you to watch some videos by some others that are a bit more experienced with the machine. Also, I’ve learned that certain yarns tend to work better on the Sentro, such as JoAnn’ s Big Twist yarn and Hobby Lobby’s I love this yarn. Along with wool type yarns like Alpaca and a few lion brand wool blends. As pretty as the Mendala yarns are they don’t do well in the machine. You have to go slower. It’s a bummer that you can’t just use any yarn that you want. But it is what it is for the product.

[@studywithme7677]

Did your sentro arrive? I'm curious as to how you are getting on with it? I put mine in the trash

[@gwyntx7620]

I have one and had no problems learning how to use it. I feel it's not for serious knitters like yourself but more for people like me who like cranking out hats, scarves etc. Not a fair review

[@LeahGratiot]

Completely agree!

[@UndertheNeedle282]

Agreed

[@aliwilson4130]

Agreed that the review isn’t fair. She has all this issues (less than 10 minutes into the video) that are tension issues…it’s like she didn’t do any pre-work on how to get it to work and things you can do.

[@KittenBowl1]

That’s probably because this is a toy (it’s actually manufactured to be a child’s toy actually that’s why it’s made in China), and not an actual knitting machine. You’re probably not a knitter but a crafter. I’m a hand knitter and I know that in the largest knitting community in the world this is considered as a toy and not a knitting machine by most. It’s fun for children. I too had a toy sewing machine as a 7 year old. But that isn’t meant to make a dress or a quilt. Same applies here.

[@jo-anne8111]

Hoop and home do lots of videos on using sentro and similar machines, she shows you how to cast on, fix mistakes etc shes really good, I enjoyed your video as well😊

[@jo_and_yarn]

I have a Sentro too, and it is perfect for what I want to do. Of course it’s plastic and not professional, but it does its job. And I have to say : I absolutely love finding smart and intelligent women on the Internet. You are really interesting to watch and I loved this deep dive into the Sentro machine. Thank you for being here!

[@konynebydosyne]

If you go from 'nothing' to the Sentro it works wonderful, but if you have a proper knitting machine and are used to the 'luxury' of the variety you can create on it; it will be difficult to get used to. I'm a crocheter and use a Sentro for quick knitting projects. Made several beautiful beanies and blankets without too many problems. It even taught me a few things about knitting as to how to pick up dropped stitches etc... It just comes down to getting to know the machine you're working with and thinking "outside the box" to create beautiful things.

[@lizsmith5901]

You should be holding onto the yarn with your non crank hand, that’s why your tension is so loose and are dropping stitches

[@femcymoedd535]

I don't really understand this machine. Does it always make the same diameter ring?

[@studywithme7677]

Absolutely agree, my sentro has been put in the trash. I much prefer my flatbed or my peg looms. The sentros, as much as the sentro community disagree are just poorly made toys. Another drawback of the sentro is the looseness of the knitted piece, so, for a hat to actually be functional you have to knit twice the length to double the fabric so the cold wind is blocked from your head 🤣. A waste of money, a waste of yarn. Much more economical over time to invest in a second hand flatbed and have a catalogue of patterns and stitches at your disposal. Also, I only have one fully functioning hand, i found the sentro to be extremely tedious when casting on and i had to use two hands as the machine slips around, yet on my flatbed or peg loom, i can successfully complete complex stitches like cables without any fuss and use one hand the majority of the time.

[@sewobsessedmama8851]

You are absolutely correct when you say this is a toy. I get that some are on a budget however used knitting machines come up all the time and sometimes less than the cost of this machine.

[@tracymontengise6596]

There is a video on short rows on the circular machines

[@DEEMACKEY901]

By far the best video on the sentro. I understand you don’t like it but for those that can only afford it you showed them they can do it

[@MrRuss1506]

You should cast on from the right hand side of the tensioner

[@melissaannboone3639]

You're not casting on properly. But I commend you for trying again. I've made about 8 beanie hats using my Sentro, and each one gets better because I'm learning to read each stitch and look for immediate problems so I can fix it right away. The type of yarn is a HUGE contributing factor. Some yarn makes perfect knit stitches, and other yarn doesn't want to slip off right before catching the new knit. But after some time and practice mine are much better and the tension is much better. The machine is great - the knitter just has to learn the machine! 🎉😂

[@JaneConnorEmbellisher]

Have you tried the flexi looms from Knittingboard? I have 3 of the sizes. I was able to make hats with decreased crowns instead of drawstring crowns. I like that the sets can be added to and I can do round and square configurations.

[@KnitFactoryImpl]

Ooh that sounds interesting, I'll have to check that out

[@cynthiaheiland4013]

I totally agree with you. Don’t waste your money. My first knitting machine was a toy flatbed machine. I was 8 years old and I’m now 68. I own many flatbed machines and just out of curiosity I bought a sentro. My toy flatbed could do more than the sentro can. Your 2nd sweater turned out cute but what a pain in the arse to do. I enjoy watching your videos. You get straight to the point. Thanks!

[@knmonlinemedia]

I have a bond and a sentro 48. No issues with either machine. I have carpal tunnel so doing crochet (which i love) and knitting by hand (which I tolerate😅) makes my hands and wrists hurt. I enjoy machine knitting and the sentro did have a bit of a learning curve. Casting on frustrated me until I saw a video on how to do it. Certain yarns are terrible on sentro which causes the yarn to drop so i have to pick it uo. Doing intarsia is challenging on a sentro but fun😂 yet its much easier on a flatbed. I would love to get a punch card and 4.5mm needle flatbed soon

[@janstoll8881]

I bought the sentry. After trying it on and off for 2 months it has sat on the shelf for 2 years. Brought it out the other day and after an hour remembered why it is on the shelf. Looking for a used flatbed.. suggestions? I have found a used singer 155 or a 360.

[@janstoll8881]

Sentro… auto correct 😡

[@diyangeluk]

Your comment nade me laugh. ❤

[@Checknix99]

I am a machine knitter for 1 year now and I would say try a used Brother KX 350 or a Silver Reed LK 150. They are relatively easy to use, the used wool isn't too thick and you can learn all the basics of how to use a knitting machine. Once you are experienced you can try other machines with double beds and so on. It makes much more fun, if you start with a medium gauge machine than a standard gauge (I have a few different machines). And those two are really good knitting machines. Happy knitting from Germany ❤

[@diyangeluk]

@@Checknix99 Agreed. I used to own the LK 150 and it was easy to use 👍

[@mindhorizon]

Maybe try using the tensioner? The Sentro might be good for making hats, but I'm sure I'd like my Ultimate Knitting Machine (Bond) better.

[@kathytomesh7936]

Mine only works to a certain length. If I mounted it on something with a hole in the center. I could go for miles. My work snags and then combusts the minute my work touches the counter.

[@marilynwestphal7934]

Thank you for addressing the issue that this is not a machine. It is a craft item that a lot o people have a good time using but it is not a production knitting machine.

[@GOGOSLIFE]

Thanks for sharing your video! The sweater turned out really cute! I was lucky enough to inherit my grandmother's flat knitting machine. However, I had it stored in the attic, because I had 10 cats at the time, and everyone knows about cats and yarn, lol! I figured I'd get it down when I had fewer of the little fur-balls to watch for. Unfortunately, we had a housefire, and we lost quite a few things. I was so disappointed. The only good thing, was that my handknitting speed went up a lot, lol!

[@brendawydeven2934]

I have a 1957 brother knitmaster flat bed. How do I get it restored?

[@diyangeluk]

I am a hand knitter but I own a sentro and have also owned a proper FLAT silver knitting machine but I ended up selling it as it creates thin knitted material. I only use the sentro for hats as I do not enjoy making clothes with it as it is honestly more like a toy😂. Nothing beats hand knitting ❤

[@satsumamoon]

I found it good for one thing: making blanks (for felting and dyeing )and it doesnt matter if you get double stitches for that. There arent enough stitches for an adult sized hat. I tried a few different yarns to see which ones dont get double stitches in . I aslo found you can keep a close eye on the stitches and correct them easily if caught before they get to to the end of the round. They are caused by the yarn not going over the nubs, so correcting them just involves you pushing the yarn over the nubs. Not a very rewarding passtime, other than for creating blanks IMO. To my mind the absence of gears is a ridiculous omission . You have to turn the crank so many times to make one row and this is fun for all of five minutes but then it gets tedious and then arduous and then painfull. And all the while getting angry at the sadists who didnt put gears on their invention.

[@reesy6176]

I agree! I have the same machine and I hate it too. I spent weeks trying to get it to work and finally gave up. I had some success with one type of yarn but other than that it was all dropped stitches and tangles.

[@rejeaniamashburn6706]

Omg I have been on this machine for 2 days and made a few hats I took my time went real slow but for panels my stitches is falling off I’m going to keep trying I will never give up on something I want to learn how to do the panels is my main problem I’m really having problem with 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@Tri_AgainProject]

I pull the work down from underneath and it prevents it, I watched a lot of videos for tips and I don't have issues. I also learned how to fix tucked and dropped stitches. It's a machine that if you learn the mechanics it's easier.

[@claudiacano4916]

I don’t know how to say it without offending you, but it is not the machine, it’s you. The stitches are falling off because the tension is not right. The tensioner has three holes, each one has a different diameter because that changes the stitch size, the smaller would apply tighter tension, so the stitches will be smaller. You also can hang weights from the fabric to prevent tuck or dropped stitches. The first rounds should be cranked slowly. You caN fix the dropped stitches before the corresponding needle gets in front of the yarn guide. Many tips from the flat bed knitting machines can be used for these circular knitting machines.

[@studywithme7677]

the tensioner does absolutely nothing. When a piece gets long enough it will force the stitches off the machine. The sentros are okay for making hats, but anything else no.

[@lynnebizlyne436]

@@studywithme7677 I disagree. There are many things you can make with the Sentro or Addi machines. Just use good yarn.

[@studywithme7677]

@lynnebizlyne436 As the Sentro only works with chunky yarns, you can't make socks that you can wear with shoes, well fitting garments, fine blankets (or afghans as the Americans call them). The people who make garments with their sentros end up with over-sized, ill fitting sweaters. I've tried yarns of all weights and the only things you can make that are vaguely passable are hats, scarves and toys, but as the Sentro is just a plastic toy, that's to be expected.

[@norarivkis2513]

If you don't mind the question, what would you recommend as a starting point for a novice to the machine knitting world? You mostly seem to prefer the flatbed over the round knit machine, so of the flatbed variety, are there any you'd recommend as being versatile and comparatively easy to learn to use? Or do you think a beginner should start with the Sentro and then consider moving up when they know more? Thank you! I really appreciate your advice and I'm having a lot of fun watching your videos, which I just found recently.

[@mai4319]

Is addi one better?

[@staylor5687]

I have to say that I agree that the first video had some user errors that affected the outcome. But having said that, I still don't like this knitting machine and it has a rather permanent place on the shelf as a novelty dust collector. I think it is good for quick projects like hats and cowls, but only if you're not interested in having any style or specialty stitch work. I have seen stripes and fair isle work using it, but who the heck wants to fuss over that?!? I'd rather knit the old fashion way for those kinds of stitches. My biggest complaint about this Sentro is that it only works WELL with DK/#3 yarn or #4 yarn that is thin enough to be considered #3. It drops stitches and then you have to catch them before it becomes an unraveling event. While I did buy the hand drill attachment for speed knitting, I can't really use it because of the dropped stitches. I would miss them and end up unraveling my work after taking it off the machine. One of the things that helps is to add a weight to the initial loading strand to help it pull the work down. The stitches come out a lot nicer, but again, just another step I have to take to get a better outcome. It's not the load and speed job that I was hoping for. And, to get nice fabric, you have to double layer the work. So I have to knit much more length than I really want to fold it over for a double layer. Its a waste of yarn when a different stitch could give me the bulk I really want.

[@diyangeluk]

I more than agree with everything that you said ever so perfectly ❤

[@patvalenzuela5105]

This sweater is really cute!

[@karenh2890]

Everyone in my family has a large head. Would this 48 stitch one produce a big enough hat? Can you make a smaller hat if you choose? I'm thinking of getting one just for hats for the family and charity.

[@LynnD-z7o]

You took the words right out of my mouth

[@ianhasnochannel]

I'd love to see what you would do with a proper circular knitting machine, like an Erlbacher, or even one of the 3d printed ones with "real" CSM needles.

[@KittenBowl1]

I’m a knitter and a crocheter. In the largest knitting community in the world, this is not considered as a “machine”, but as a gadget. Manufacturers make these (there are other similar toys for little girls) as children’s toys and not a knitting machine meant for adults. It can only take a particular thickness of yarn. Too thick it will drop stitch like crazy and too thin it will not be warm at all.

[@Kashkelly-k8k]

We know. Saw your previous. Video, you could tell.

[@franceengeorge1142]

The Addi does it much better - but not totally without dropped stitches. Yarn characteristics seem to be the biggest issue. I have both a Sentro and an Addi and I mostly only use the Addi. But handknitting is still my go-to.

[@tracygillon6078]

What makes ruckles and lines in the knitting, is because ur tension is loose one minute and tight the rest.u need to use the tensioner,but still make sure u always have s.ack off ur ball.

[@elizabethburnett2486]

I used with 4weight yarn an it come out beautiful

[@tracygillon6078]

I am enjoying ur video very much and it's informative 😊, ty.

[@showandtellmeg]

I honestly can't believe you saw this through - I would have stopped so much earlier on. I bought into the hype and bought the 48 and 20 pin Sentro machines a little over a year ago because I wanted to make hats and scarves as Christmas gifts. I knit one scarf tube and it looked so awful - tucked stitches and holes everywhere. I set it aside and decided to use my bond for the next one and it was such a world of difference that I made all my hats and scarves on the bond and even pulled out the one sentro scarf and redid it on the bond. I have another portable standard sized machine, but I long to find a legit full sized standard machine and a ribber someday. Ive never touched my Senteos again, but I kept them so my kids can play with them when they get a bit older. I absolutely don't understand the hype these machines have had. I'd say most of these internet sentro girlies would throw them out if they actually got to use a real functioning knitting machine.

[@samarmoonshine2282]

Hello, my name is Samar. I have a question about knitting machines and I need advice from you. I have a KH 836 knitting machine and I want to buy a second machine with a needle size of 7. Of course, I also have an LK 150 knitting machine. I need a machine with a KR rib to make the hem. What do you advise me to do? Where can I buy it? I bought two KH 260 machines and returned them from EBY. I am 62 years old and I need a machine that is not expensive and also new and good. Thank you. Note: I live in Houston, Texas. I want an answer as soon as possible.

[@BenjWarrant]

I like the sweater though, very pretty.

[@dottyfulcrum]

Bah! I'm a crappy knitter and I would prefer to rely on that than this awkward machine. Kudos for trying it more than once. Gads.

[@lovefulS06]

Ok finally finished the video. I would so be interested in a round neck yoke on a single bed knitting machine. There are so many fairisle patterns I am dying to try but they are made for hand knitting and I don't think I have the mental capacity to try and figure out how to do that on either of my flat beds. One day I'll get a ribber but that day is nowhere soon.

[@JustJA34567]

I kind of feel like you gotta learn how to use things before you make such harsh judgement. They really aren't that bad. I kind of think that you need to look into how to use things, I'm sure you'd have the same experience trying to use a flat bed machine if you don't watch tutorials and/or read instructions if they are available. A lot of the issues your having are user error. And its OK if something isn't for you, but it didn't even seem as if you watched one video on casting on or flat panels before you jumped in so confidently. Its not a flat bed, but you can still do loads of things with these little machines. So many other channels have such better experiences. You have koala knits and knacks, yay for yarn, Emily Smit, alt knot, and creative yarn by fabi. Its def not a flat bed knitting machine by any means but they are great for what they are. I hope you maybe take the time to learn to use these little beauties in the future before making such harsh judgements. And I hope others don't just throw out this idea so quickly.

[@KnitFactoryImpl]

Keep watching, I got the hang of it.

[@brieweisman8953]

I agree, the fact that the machine was not secured to the table also made it more difficult for it to be used well. I would add Quinn Bender as another circular machine knitter doing interesting stuff on her circular machine. I think if the goal of this podcast is to get folks interested in a more traditional flat bed knitting machine, this could be the gateway drug to get there. So don't poo-poo it too much.

[@amydebuitleir]

I prefer knitting by hand because I don't like fussing with hardware (I prefer abstractions and software!). However, I was given a brand new Hague linker when a friend's mother went into care, so I decided to get an Addi 46 just to experiment with things like linking flat panels to make blankets. Haven't had a chance to try it yet, but I will post when I do. I'm hoping to at least be able to churn out hats and scarves for charity.

[@KnitFactoryImpl]

Linkers are generally designed for a specific gauge and I'm pretty sure the Hague are for standard gauge (4.5 mm) so it may not work well with loose knits.

[@amydebuitleir]

@@KnitFactoryImpl Oh well. I guess a knitting machine is in my future. ;^)

[@gges1605]

It looks like a toy to me as well. I used flatbed years ago an old brother with card reader but even that eventually became a clothes horse as they also have limitations , this I doubt would last a few hours here as I doubt I would have the patience for it at all and it would be thrown in bin very quickly.

[@grannysquared7140]

Did you even read the directions?

[@Buildlifebeautiful]

First.. where can I find your membership links??? I don’t like metal bed machines but I adore my lk100 and 150! So Would I still get something out of a membership? I will say the sentro and Addi can’t even compare to my flat bed machines on ease of use! However the Addi knits a thousand times better than a sentro. And I enjoy using it for quick hats .. but nothing else. Trying to make panels on one is just hideous compared to a flat bed! And anything that requires me to manipulate stitches on the Addi? No thank you! But I really love hand manipulating stitches on my flat beds! Loads of rewarding fun!

[@Mambo_4176]

dying at the need a thumbnail part. you look so pained!!

[@msmcj65]

Now you know what the tension "thingy" is for. Had you used it you would have a more consistent knitted product. Also casting on is done by alternating needles. I too am flat bed machine knitter with a ribber. I believe you were quite amateur in giving this particular knitter a fair assessment.

[@tianamarie989]

Itsbgetting oushed off because there's not enough tension on the yarn. That's what the tensioner is for.

[@Tri_AgainProject]

For hats you don't need waste yarn if it's going to be gathered. Faster to pick it off stitch by stitch. It's quick, takes a few minutes. If you watch videos by people who aro familiar with the machine it will be easier. Roll the work, add weights, pull it down as you crank.

[@nancymoore8949]

I really enjoyed this video because I will never buy one of those. Now the problems of this type of machine are recorded for everyone! Even though it is a hobby you still want to be efficient and allow for creativity which the round plastic machines don’t allow for. THANK YOU!

[@LuvMyCardiKids]

I have a sentro and just watching the beginning of the video so far it’s highlighted what happens when you don’t use the machine properly. Like not using the tensioner because you don’t believe it does anything. And not using weights to ensure the stitches form properly. And not holding the end of the yarn when beginning to knit to also ensure the stitches form properly. If you knitted on your 150 with as little attention to following the directions on how to knit on it as you’ve done on the sentro you’d have the same issues with malformed and dropped stitches on it as you do on the sentro.

[@deborahdonnelly8423]

I hate the thing too…..I wanted to make hats to donate…….I’ve tried tons of time.

[@drewparson8573]

Hello! I love your videos and generally appreciate your expertise however I think this particular video has some logical issues. Firstly, the price of this machine is absolutely not even in the same ballpark as the more expensive machines you are comparing it to. Of course more intricate designs are not possible with this machine, and if it were priced the same as a flat knitting machine that can do these designs that would be a valid critique, however it is not. Additionally, I understand your frustration about the problems upon start up, however these appear to be user error and not the fault of the machine. When you talk about things “not working” or “not knitting” that is due to a lack of expertise using the machine on your end, not the machine itself. This machine is much more accessible for the average person than the machines you are used to, and that utility alone deserves to be mentioned. This video felt incredibly biased against the machine, which made it difficult to watch.

[@GingerSnaps502]

Pretty much everyone complaining about the sentro being "crap", or that it doesnt work... Sorry to say, but thats 99% user error. People buy things because they see videos of people who have actually taken the time to learn how to use something properly, and make it look easy to use, then get mad because it doesnt immediately make beautiful things. 🙄 And as far as "loose stitches" go, that all depends on the user, and if they are properly working the machine as well!

[@virginiaroberts4921]

you threaded it wrong

[@cymorilgray1891]

I’m only a few mins in watching you apparently give the sentry a fair shot…. And yes I saw your first video. Your arrogance over the machine is off putting. Your straightaway… I took the suction cups off…. Then you wonder why you’re having issues? The machine needs to be fixed and stable … many of us use g clamps even. The machine needs to be stable for you to get the tension correct…. If tension is right, you won’t drop stitches. Would you advise someone using a flatbed for the first time to disregard instructions and wing it then expect decent results? Not really giving it a fair shot are you hun?

[@Tri_AgainProject]

When you cast on, make sure the hooks at the top catch the yarn.

[@Kashkelly-k8k]

I e seen other people make cool things with this. They make big pies, not just hats also.

[@tkm256]

The anger and defensiveness in the comments of every video criticizing the Sentro is frankly weird. Does the manufacturer pay people to attack anyone who doesn't like their products? The only thing "wrong" here is a mismatch between expectations of what a cheap tool like this can do and its real limitations. The advertisements imply you can crank out anything imaginable lightning fast without any skill. Socks! Amigurumi! Gorgeous intarsia sweaters! No, you can't. This is the fiber arts equivalent of a circular saw. You wouldn't buy a $60 circular saw and expect it to spit out an intricate jewelry box in 15 minutes. You can use it to quickly cut out basic polygons to join together, that's it. These circular knitting machines make tubes and rectangles, that's it. If you want anything fancier than that, you have to get out the hand tools. I can see how the Sentro could be useful for experienced knitters to crank out sections of boring stockinette quickly. You could then pick up to do the rest the old-fashioned way: add ribbing or bands of fair isle, ladder down to rework in cables, knit a yoke bottom-up with raglan decreases and short rows, etc. If that's all you want from the machine, perfect. But expecting more than that will inevitably end in frustration.

[@deejcarter2003]

Wow, that took a lot of brain power! I'm really curious to know if the Addi knitting machine works better than this one.

[@roellievandermeulen2422]

what a drama to see you working on the Sentro! Why are you not first going to see some video's? It is such a great machine with the right user.

[@cmhardim4]

I have both of the addi machines and they are useful for making my grandkids stuffed animals.... lol otherwise I use my lk150 my dream is a standard machine with a ribber. Who knows maybe someday.

[@mermaidpotato]

Are all of the commenters saying you didn't give it a fair shake and calling this a review aware that you already did an actual review where you used it as intended and explained why you found it frustrating even for the intended purpose?

[@brendawydeven2934]

You use weights and tension on flat bed machines. Why wouldn't you do that on the sentro? Be fair.

[@uduakrobinson8372]

To prevent dropped/tucked stitches

[@brendawydeven2934]

@uduakrobinson8372 it was supposed to say why wouldn't se use them. I just changed it.

[@aliwilson4130]

I’m not very far into the video, but I don’t like her attitude about the machine. People can and do make many things and create income for themselves with these machines. Not everyone can make two-handed horizontal movements needed to use a flat bed. Within the first few minutes she states her pedigree, but with ten you can tell that she did no research, no prework, and has a bad attitude because she’s forcing herself to use this toy that she hates for views because it’s popular.

[@DanielLopez-up6os]

People have made a 3D printable and Aseemblable version of this that woorks much better as it uses Commodity Metallic Machine knitting needles it's called the "Circular Sock Knitting Machine V2"

[@amandag5072]

I purchased an Addi last year, as the reviews all appeared to show it was superior to the sentro - geez, it was not. It was entirely made of plastic, and after only 2 weeks the gears would grind and skip - I tried everything to fix it. But in the end nothing solved it, so I sent it back for a refund. I would not advise anyone serious about machine knitting to buy either an Addi or a Sentro. For what it is, the Addi is a piece of plastic junk too, just extremely over-priced. If I ever do go for a a CSM again it will be one of the proper metal ones.

[@KnitFactoryImpl]

I would love to get a CSM but those big metal ones are several thousand dollars

[@JessicasCreativeSpot]

My husband is 3d printing a circular sock machine - from the videos, it will probably be loud, but it's following the same design as the old metal ones, so hopefully it works well!

[@nimikins]

If you want to test drive a csm, I successfully printed and used a Jeeping Johnny V2 from printables to make socks. I think all in, with filament and needles etc I probably put about $250 into it? I haven’t gotten the ribber to work yet, but that experience and this channel convinced me to pick up a new in box silver reed 280 with the ribber. I’ve only made a scarf so far on that one.

[@alishasouslesoleil]

1:03:08 not me yelling "Hour 7!"

[@alishasouslesoleil]

1:05:07 starting Hour 10

[@alishasouslesoleil]

Hour 10! 1:13:40

[@alishasouslesoleil]

1:39:15 Hour 22

[@alishasouslesoleil]

Your final sweater is super cute

[@steelstrings4]

That’s the same Chromebook the school issued me. 😅

[@GG-wi4ur]

I agree it makes me mad that these come up when you google knitting machines!