Knitting Machines are awesome // Episode 178 // Taking Back Friday // a knitting vlog

[@lvmitchell1]

I held such a 'machine knitting is cheating' view, but now I've had a machine for a few years I completely treasure it as a whole new skill! I love both hand knitting and machine knitting 😊

[@sweetgeorgia]

Yes! It is a whole new skill... that's the perfect way to describe it. I love both as well!

[@Creative-Chaos]

If machine knitting is cheating, than everyone one of us who uses a sewing machine is cheating.

[@SciFiFemale]

I found a knitting machine in a charity shop, around 2002. I brought it with me when I moved 2003, found a class teaching it, and now have a NCFE level 1 qualification in machine knitting, and own far too many machines, and so much thin, acrylic cone yarn I don't know what to do with it all. I'm in the UK, Birmingham. And I belong to a machine knitting club, although we do a lot of other hand crafts too. I recommend finding a club to join.

[@RogueAlchemyArts]

I don't have that "I could never" thing when it comes to making things. My weird OCD is wanting to learn how all the things work. That doesn't mean that I want to do them again after learning, I just enjoy the process of actually learning a thing. I am a Tablet weaver, as well as a loom knitter and Tunisian crocheter. I find that I get a LOT of push-back as a loom knitter from other knitters, that it's not "real knitting". It's absolutely real knitting, and is especially great for people like me who have carpal tunnel and can't manipulate knitting needles, also people with arthritis or other ailments. I find most who can no longer needle knit can absolutely loom knit which gives them back their "makers/crafters joy". If it gives you joy, comfort, purpose, it's valid.

[@sweetgeorgia]

💯

[@judypowell5607]

That's hilarious that loom knitters are considered not real knitters!🤣 Apparently these knitting police have never used a knitty noddy, or the little spool that is used to make cords. It was the very first thing I learned to knit when I was a child since it didn't require as much hand coordination, After doing the 2 needle thing I discovered circular needles and then knitting in the round. I imagine these critics would have said that the legendary Norwegian knitters were cheating because they knit in the round (no purling!), then slice down the front to make a cardigan from the tube.

[@dragonlord0666]

machine knitters used to get told that all the time or that it was 'cheating'.whatever! I just used to laugh at them and continue knitting

[@CatherineLaplante]

I love machine knitting. I am part of the Machine Knit Community (MKC) and learned so much over the last months, from swatching to actually making sweaters. I now have 3 machines…;)

[@CatherineLaplante]

You should join if you haven’t already. It’s a great place to learn, be challenged and have fun.

[@cvan1075]

I don’t know anyone who has only one machine

[@melitacarder]

💚 this rabbit hole!! I’ve had a knitting machine in my garage for over 10 years that I’ve not used. It’s from my grand - mother - in - law and we used this machine to knit my wedding dress on 22 years ago. I really do want to clean it up and learn to use it but never make the time to get into it. One day I will. In the meantime I’ll live vicariously through your adventures into machine knitting 💚

[@waltons-crochet]

Please be aware that you will have to do some repair on it before knitting. The sponge bar is probably in desperate need of replacement(the needles are held in place by it). Being in the garage, with the weather changes, you may have rusty needles. Hope you don’t mind my input. I was given an older one and found it to be true. @theanswerlady (I think that is her name) has a number of repair videos. Have a wonderful day

[@shelleyfry]

I have great memories of being allowed to make rows when I was around 8 or 9 on my mother’s machine, having no idea how all those little tools worked but being fascinated by the magical alchemy of it all. As with sewing machines, I am amazed by human ingenuity. Tool makers and engineers are incredible. And a shout out to all the people who work in factories of any kind.

[@toniwood6623]

I have been knitting by machine since the 80's . Both hand and machine knitting have their advantage. I use to have club with over 30 members. Learn a lot and share my knowledge. I was the youngest in the group but loved every minute own several knitting machine like weaving is a learning process. Happy for you 🤗 . Enjoy the journey 💛

[@Kelleykrafts]

I have 5 flatbed knitting machines now, along with my Speedster CSM. 😂 Addicting!!

[@sweetgeorgia]

Yes!! What’s your favourite thing to make on the flatbed machines? I’m looking for ideas 😆

[@katherinesmith6820]

I used to think machine knitting was almost cheating. My husband has a 58in chest. I’m a pretty fast knitted but it still takes me months to knit a sweater for him by hand. I bought a knitting machine a month ago. I’m already done with the back on a sweater for him. Not to mention knitting anything else. My mind has changed, It’s totally not cheating. I love it! I love both hand knitting and knitting on my SK280. They’re both great, different and great.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Both great!! Yes!!

[@gigiososki5213]

For anyone who wants to do a few rows of garter stitches on a more basic machine, you can do it with a garter bar. You basically just take the piece off the bed and put it back on the other way round and knit your garter stitch that way

[@wandacasper5612]

Hello, just got a machine yesterday. Looking forward to working with it.

[@sweetgeorgia]

@@wandacasper5612 oh fun! Which one did you get?

[@TheMetatronGirl]

So fun seeing that spark and excitement for a new craft! I’m so looking forward to future knitting machine content. I’m definitely going to purchase a sock machine at some point in the future. I never thought I’d be able to learn spinning. The equipment was out of my price range, my disabilities were uncontrolled, I was just convinced it was never going to happen. Last fall, we switched my pain medication around a bit and I was suddenly able to move better than I had in years. I picked my knitting needles back up, started tatting and crocheting again, and decided I’d start with spindles. Fast forward to May, 2022, and I own not just one, but TWO spinning wheels, and three spindles. I joined the School of SweetGeorgia (I’m Elise Bohn), and am spinning every day!! If I’m not at my wheels or twirling my spindles, I’m reading or learning about spinning. The next “never” is dyeing fiber, then knitting machines. Thanks to SOS and spinning, I feel like I can do anything!

[@srdailypracticeceramics]

It is fun and challenging relearning on these machines… Four years ago I bought a standard and a mid gauge brother machines…taught myself with the help of KZbin videos, still have them and use them once in a while . Then I bought a Lagare circular machine, again learned with KZbin videos. Made myself about thirty pairs of socks and sold it. Two years ago I took a fiber spinning class, bought a wheel, I love spinning, and also dye my own fiber. Spinning brings me such joy and tranquility… For me it’s another form of meditation… I am also a ceramicist based In So. Calif. Ceramics is part of my daily practice-My spiritual practice. I wish you a joyful journey in the practice of your crafts.

[@sweetgeorgia]

@@srdailypracticeceramics thank you so much! Yes! This is all like a mindful meditation. Glad you are finding joy in your practice as well!

[@sewcute_sewvintage]

As someone who recently bought a vintage knitting machine i really enjoyed this video

[@sweetgeorgia]

Wonderful!! Thanks! I’m so glad you liked the video. Which knitting machine did you get?!

[@rosalindtaylor3479]

I fell down the knitting machine rabbit hole 40 years ago. Still going strong.

[@itoshigoto]

I went down the rabbit whole during lockdown and now own three working flatbed machine and lots of Japanese vintage machine knitting magazines from 50s to 90s. I have heard that there were many machine knitting classes in Japan during the golden era (I just named it :p) when Brother and other makers still produced domestic knitting machines. It was so fun researching about the different knitting techniques like you said, and also the history of domestic machine knitting in Japan. Since there are almost no person in many families who know how to knit with the old grandmas’ machines, most of them are thrown away and that makes me sad :( So I make some machine knitting vlog on my channel sometimes but I wish there are more machine knitting content on KZbin and other social media to let people know about this great invention. So glad to find you make one, thank you!

[@SimLauren]

😊 I love my machines! When you knit by hand, you knit 1 stitch at a time… when you MachKnit, you are knitting 1 row at a time. I enjoy the change of perspective.

[@dianabloomdesigns]

This is so exciting!! I love that you found a way to be able to potentially knit more often without it causing you strain. I love how delicate and intricate machine knitting looks. I’ve been hesitant to learn quilting but this has been really inspiring for me to try. 😁

[@mcruz2187]

Omg, 🙀 I can totally relate with your story. I literally just got a LK150 this past Mother’s Day. I am still learning and having tons of aha moments. I got the machine because I love to knit but am having issues with hand nerve pain, which means I can’t knit for more than 1-2 hours. And it’s particularly painful to hand knit with smaller needles and fingering yarn, which I absolutely love. This machine is helping me with the stockinette body while I can still knit color yokes by traditional hand knit. Please please share more videos with your machines. Thanks a lot for sharing 🙏

[@sweetgeorgia]

Exactly!! I’m in the same boat. I want to knit more and hoping to hand knit colour yokes and then use the machine for the stockinette body. Right now I’m trying to devise a series of gauge swatches for each yarn that I use. This way I know exactly how to set my machine for whatever gauge is specified in the pattern :)

[@katieteach2882]

Anna Haferman has good videos, especially for the LK 150.

[@scottydog6539]

I like watching your videos. You are so enthusiastic. I think machine knitting is more complicated. You can personalize your stitch designs. Amazing. It certainly is not cheating or boring. Figuring out how to do things.

[@ArianaBauer]

I LOVE my knitting machines. My journey started when i was given a Passap E6000 by a close friend of my grandmother's. His wife had died several years back and he was finally ready to let go, but only to a person he felt was deserving of his wife's beloved machines. It had been in a barn but i took it apart and rebuilt it from the ground up. I was so lucky that the electronics actually still worked. The machine was very frustrating as i had no idea where to start. I am part of the Knit it Now community and the classes there were life changing. Susan Guagliumi's books are AMAZING.

[@rozknitz]

I'm can feel your excitement and I'm so excited for you. And I'm here for all the machine knitting. Can't wait to see what you make!

[@NadiaP1986F]

This is so exiting I got in to knitting machine about 7 years ago and love having a knitting machine

[@martilynnsmiles]

I really enjoyed hearing you share your enthusiasm about machine knitting! I am an avid hand-knitter and crocheter, and I brought home a SK280 just over 2 years ago. Learning to use the machine was much like relearning knitting all over again.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Completely! It’s a whole different craft! Just happens to make the same kind of fabric 😆

[@kimfauth9542]

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your enthusiasm. You totally "get it" - the joy of learning!!! So excited now as I just purchased a used KX350 and need something new to get the creative juices flowing. THANK YOU!!!

[@gailnoll]

What a sweet video giving crafters permission to try new ways to do things. I have always enjoyed knitting on a circular loom and some think I'm nuts but I love it. I have been thinking about a CSM and giving that a whirl because they do look like a lot of fun. There are a few knit snobs out there but who cares as long as you are enjoying it DO IT!!!!

[@woldten]

Thank you so much for this video. I actually learned to knit on a machine. I already knew how to crochet from my grandmother, but took a job about twenty years ago designing for a company that manufactured on machines. After learning how the machine worked, I taught myself how to hand knit, working backwards from what I would do on the machine. Several years ago I sold my machine, but since I started designing patterns again, I too have found that I have more ideas than my hands can make. I just found a Brother KH860 through an online local community board and am so excited to get back into this. I have never used the ribber attachment though, so I'm super excited to try it out. Looking forward to watching more of your videos!

[@indigobeah]

i love machine knitting! it wasn’t always like that but i have grown to have an appreciation for it. i’m a textile design student in the u.k. and we’re inducted and taught on knit machines of all varieties. flat bed silver reeds, with ribbing attachments and chunky gauge flatbeds, to designer knit programmed flatbeds, and we even have three dubiere industrial knit machines. it’s honestly been an uphill struggle for me as someone that has great love for the freedom crochet gives me, but i’m truly enjoying where i am now and where i’m going with knit machines and it’s like the world’s my oyster with how much flexibility i now have with these skills!

[@ddsmyth]

Very excited to see you and your knitting machine. I have two Singer machines and you are inspiring me to begin using them again. I am from Vancouver and a number of years ago took classes from Helen Sharp in Seattle at The Knitting School. She has just started online courses. Cannot wait to see what you create.

[@sweetgeorgia]

What a great resource Helen has created!! Her videos are so well done. Thanks for sharing.

[@MultiMichellerose]

I love machine knitting, studied it at college in the 90s and ran a business with it for years….now I hand knit, learning all about it, but the process seems so slow, so I’m getting use to it. l no longer have the space for my machine. But I have always wanted to learn to weave, and respect weavers so much.

[@carriemoore6038]

I am so excited for you! I consider Machine Knitting to be a separate craft, so definitely don’t consider it cheating. I have been collecting and using old knitting machines for a few years - so much fun. I am a member of the Machine Knit Community out of the UK since they started a few years ago. It’s a fabulous community. I have learned so much since joining. They only take new members a few times a year, but you can check out their website and Instagram to learn more about them. There are members from all over the world, and lots of Canadians. They offer many great courses and patterns and lots of discussions.

[@sweetgeorgia]

YES! I consider machine knitting to be a separate craft too… we just happen to end up with knitted fabric like hand knitting. It’s like how I look at weaving and tapestry… they are so different! I’ll check out that community too, thank you for suggesting it!! 🙏

[@carriemoore6038]

I forgot to mention. Tin Can Knits did a post a few years ago about knitting machines. I believe that they said they were using a knitting machine to knit the stockinette when they were working on designing patterns for their Strange Brew book. So hand knit yokes and machine knit for the rest. Just a thought for their hybrid use…..

[@tkippy]

Im a man and i would have a go at this. I love the creative aspect of it too and i love jerseys in particular. I have fond memories of mum making jerseys for us on these machines and i loved watching her. Theres so much potential in them.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Yes! So much potential with a knitting machine!

[@micahmilne]

This is a really lovely video to watch. My body struggles with knitting more than a little bit at a time because the small motions hurt me faster than things like weaving or spinning (I love long draw -- that bigger motion is so much easier on my thumbs than inch worming). I can't afford a knitting machine like this yet, but I think someday it would be fun to play with as an alternative to my limited ability to continue with my knitting projects.

[@darinakalinova2180]

Machine knitting is soooo big fun. Have a good time.

[@annetteavery3349]

I have machine knit since about 1982 and you never finish learning. I always say you are a pattern designer, metallurgist ( you need to know what to use to clean to not damage the machine metal) colourist, mathematician etc..etc I could go on. I love all of it and all the lovely things that you can make and that’s before you start thinking outside the box. Fishing line, wire, the list is endless and I have done the ribbing in DK on the SK280, taken off on waste yarn to the mid gauge LK150. The streaky would be evened out with a Twisting Yarn Stack from Hague. Enjoy

[@celineocallaghan6915]

Love seeing you so excited and rearing to go. I’m abit old to start now but love watching what you present every week. Have bought my 1st Advent Calendar from Sweet Georgia ❤️❤️❤️

[@maried3717]

What is too old? I am 73 and my partner in crime is in her 90's! We go to knitting clubs or demonstrations when we get the chance....even out of state....and we are still learning!

[@MrHibbety]

This video is so inspiring! I recently (within the last month) became obssessed with knitting machines and bought a vintage machine for myself. I’ve watched so many KZbin videos…and finally this video came up in my suggested feed. So glad you’re extending the challenge to knitters to keep an open mind about other crafts. I, too, had the idea that machine knitting was cheating. Gosh, if I knew how frustrating and challenging and thoughtful machine knitting really was, I never would’ve thought it was “taking the easy road” and cheating! There’s so much I need to learn, but I definitely had to give my first swatch all the feels, too, lol

[@lau-sannepepler4705]

Loved your post. I did exactly the same thing, a million swatches in different yarns and gauge dials. Created a little excel sheet for myself with my gauge and using it to design my own garments. I too switch between hand knitting and machine and would still love to acquire a machine with a ribber. Currently using an old school Empisal HK100 and it can pretty much do all the things the LK150 can do. Thanks again for sharing your process. And I too would like to find the knitting machine community

[@debcigna6732]

So interesting, thank you for all your sharing, love the sound !

[@trishamorris177]

I am so excited by this! I too have found myself in a deep rabbit hole of research for machine knitting. I love that you get as excited about the 'research' and learning as I do. I have been very fortunate to acquire two machines. The first one was for larger yarns, which I found frustrating as I don't have a lot of scraps or stash to work through the learning process. But just this past week I acquired a Singer Memo-Matic 326 Knitting Machine with all the bells and whistles including a ribber and punch cards. This video was just the motivation I needed to set it up and clean it and start the whole deep dive process. I am SO excited but also find myself a little frozen with the overwhelming amount to learn. Thanks so much for sharing your process and excitement. For years, I have found you post about something new just as I myself am jumping down the same rabbit hole.

[@patriciahill7958]

I just love how needed-out and excited you are. Such fun! Thank you for sharing.

[@creativity7510]

I have knitted a lot of sweaters and other things of my knitting machine, have a nice day 🌹

[@ornamentalapplique]

It was so much fun watching you get excited about your machines. Last fall I pulled my old bulky machine out of storage and also found a used silver reed I couldn't resist buying. But I had never learned how to hand knit until this winter. What a rabbit hole I fell down and what fun exploring all these ways has been. Looking forward to seeing what else you create with these new tools!

[@sweetgeorgia]

Amazing that you started with knitting machines and then moved to learning hand knitting. I wonder if you found much of the knowledge transferable?

[@ornamentalapplique]

@@sweetgeorgia I find them both different. I understand making fabric into a garment from the machine and the other things I do. I was hoping hand knitting would help me to conceptualize stitches and solutions for making them either way. We'll see.

[@scottydog6539]

You are fantastic, you learn so many ways to knit on your machines. Wow. I heard the Dean and Bean sock knitting machine does not come with good instructions. Your knitting in these machine looks so intricate. Wonderful.

[@sonialorenzo9223]

I do understand how excited you are.

[@disneyknitter7040]

i have had my machines for over 35 yrears. Love them.

[@Gingersnapcharlie]

Oh, that rabbit hole swallowed me whole. You and I are if the same mind-I love planning and learning new techniques.

[@tinasimonsen5872]

I'm so excited for you 💃 I love my knitting Machines, and hate when people say I'm cheating when I knit on them, it's not, it takes time to learn the machines, and once you get it, you are hooked. I also have a silver Reed sk280 with ribber, it takes me 25 minutes to knit one sock, it's so quick once you've learned it. And and 🙈 i never ever thought i would love knit on a knitting machine, now I have 3 😂 My next step is waving, I have also 3 2 ashford rigid heddle looms and one 8 shaft tabel loom on legs 😊 Never though I would love weaving as I do. You have exactly the same smile on your face as I do when I knit on my machine, exited to se your next video 👌🙏

[@diannefitzmaurice9813]

Time for a circular sock machine !

[@GrannyNasty]

Greetings from Port Elizabeth South Africa 🇿🇦 I had a machine in the late 70s which I sold when I ran into financial difficulties and never bothered with hand nor machine knitting. 9 years ago I picked up a pair of needles and knitted a bear. I then saw my Polish neighbour had set up a machine. I asked her to knit my teddy a skirt. And she said you can do? I said yes and all the old muscle memory came back. I now have 4 machines and 1 on the way. I teach basic skills on them. I refurbish unloved ones and find good homes for them. Unfortunately due to out shocking exchange rate and hellish customs we have no import. No new machines and no spares nor quality yarns. But we knit!!!😅😅😅😅

[@kellykoehle9120]

How exciting! I just found your vlog through the keyword machine knitting. I got a Brother standard gauge machine 10 years ago and felt just like you are describing now. For me it is still so amazing after so much time! I hope you enjoy it so much!!

[@sweetgeorgia]

Yay!! I’m so glad you found us here. The machine knitting is a whole new world to explore for me and so much fun so far. I’m glad you are still enjoying it too!

[@LauraundLaura2]

Thank you for sharing your experience! I will buy my first knitting machine tomorrow and can't wait to learn how zi work with it

[@Thesweaterfactory]

Loved your video. Very interesting. Thanks for taking the time to share your enthusiasm and inspiration. Regarding your knitting two yarns together. You can knit two yarns together, without twisting them, using a technique called “plating”. The LK150 can do this too, on that machine, you just thread one yarn in feeder 1 and the other in feeder 2. This will make one yarn show on the knit side and the other show on the purl side. This is a good technique for knitting, say a rayon yarn that might be quite scratchy next to the skin, so you can plate it with a smooth cotton, which knits on the back side, which makes a garment in certain yarns, much more wearable. Not only that, like you did, you can use two strands of a finer yarn, to make a thicker yarn but it keeps the fabric consistent, as only one yarn shows on each side. Anyway, really enjoyed the video, keep up the good work.

[@lyndawetherell3780]

I'm so happy that you are enjoying a knitting machine. I now own two fine knit and one bulky machine. I have most of the goodies that you can get for them. Garter carriage, color changer, transfer carriage, so many things. Have made many sweaters, single knit and double knit, afghans, lace, socks, there is so much you can do with your machine. Love love my machines. I still love hand knitting, they both have their places you can't take your machine in the car and knit as you travel☺️. Have fun in your rabbit hole.

[@lyndawetherell3780]

Oh I forgot to mention you can make sock blanks so fast on one too.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Oh yes!! One of the things I want to try is knitting sock blanks in cotton for dyeing to be used in weaving 🤪 love hearing how excited you are about your machines!

[@LuvMyCardiKids]

I had an ultimate knitting machine years ago and I loved it! I gifted it to my granddaughter and now she is enjoying it. I am now lusting after a sock machine. I want one very bad but it will take a lot to get me to pull the trigger on that one.

[@heximancer28]

it looks like a musical instrument my husband said, i was so excited i could not go to bed, wool keeps humans from being dead, i hope the sheep stay well fed, playing with machines is a med, that is what I read, from her pencil lead, was the perfect ed, about the ways of yarn and thread

[@sherirae]

I was knitting by hand and flat bed machine back in the '70's and '80's. At one point of time I had 2 knitting machines - inherited. Gosh I wish I still had them both.

[@EmergingNow577]

I weatched this after the machine knitting video with the purple and green yokes. I actually feel the same way about the design/production issue as a reason to machine knit. I have multiple designs running through my head even as I am trying to knit one object and it is super frustrating! I really am a product knitter because I'm working towards materializing what's in my head. Additionally, I have found my hands hurt if I'm not careful with taking breaks; standing up, stretching and walking around. Gone are the days of knitting off and on for 8 hours. I will check out your classes. I am interested in both the flatbed and the circular knitting machines. I think most of us forget that those gorgeous Fair Isle sweaters from the late 1900's were often produced by entire families working togethor, not one person doing everything. Great video! P.S. After the other knitting machine video, I started tidying up the mountain of balls of yarn that had accumulated on my work table. Did not realize how bad it had gotten. 8 bags so far! : )

[@spetersca]

I love your enthusiasm for learning new things!!! I don't think I need a new rabbit hole, but it all looks very interesting.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Hahah I don’t need a new rabbit hole either! 🤣 but yes, having fun with this chance to learn something new.

[@franckbeth6473]

I’ve never tried knitting machine, but is definitely interested after watching your video! If there is a community, I’m interested…😊

[@heatherswift825]

I got a same silver reed knitting machine when the RSI in my wrists was too bad to knit my hand! They are amazing, and I’ve knit loads with it, I did a course on Craftsy by East London Knits and made a jumper 😊 I can knit by hand again now (as long as it’s not intense), I really don’t see machines as cheating! They are difficult to master and they still take time and effort to produce something. I have just got a csm too! Although I’m finding mastering doing the heels/toes a bit tricky 😂 enjoy the knitting machine!

[@thenewalex]

You're lovely! I feel you, fell in the same rabbit hole less than a year ago... that sk280 2 minutes away from you was meant to be!

[@patmartens4751]

I had two machines but when we retired and moved to a retirement village I sold my machines and which I had not sold them……what a wonderful invention. They are awesome.

[@WafflingAboutWool]

There's gotta be a community on Ravelry somewhere !

[@joniems7113]

There most definitely is a community of machine knitters on Ravelry. The main group is Machine Knitting, but there are specialty groups for midgauge machines, specific models of machines (like Passaps), and a group of sales notices for people selling their machines.

[@OzSteve9801]

I have been machine knitting and sewing for about 40 years. I design my own patterns and have made everything from baby wear to evening wear to soft furnishings. I used to supply shops and teach crafts but these days have wound back to just making personal clothing.

[@scottydog6539]

I just subscribed. You are so enjoyable. I hand knit simple items. I have knit sweaters. I find hand knitting relaxing. I love a hood fingering merino wool.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Thanks for the sub!! And thanks for watching

[@robinhuselton8488]

I love my LK150. I have made several yoked sweaters, hand knitting the yokes after machine knitting the body and arms. I am excited to learn about the ribber on the standard machine.

[@patriciapoot1180]

It's the only way I knit yoke sweaters!

[@alexehrhardt1104]

Newish knitter here, I definitely get that feeling you describe of that sense of accomplishment when I learn something new! I just started working on a gauge swatch for a sock yarn that is the thinnest yarn I’ve used so far, and it’s absolutely magical watching the fabric grow as I work! It’s taking forever to get anywhere, since I am very slow with it. (I’m faster with crochet since I’ve been doing it longer, but not by much. I just have a slow pace with all of it. I don’t mind, but it probably means I will never finish anything with my sock yarn anytime soon!😂) I’m glad you’re getting that feeling of learning a new thing! It’s such a good feeling! As nice as it is to feel like you have mastered a skill, it gives diminishing returns for the sense of accomplishment. Eventually it just is a thing you do without thinking. But the pride of learning something new never gets old! Happy stitching!

[@TheYarnCloset]

I can’t wait to see your progress

[@zrrsamara4768]

So AWESOME 😍😍😍😍

[@barbarastefani254]

I have a knitting machine have made baby blankets sweaters scarves have a lot of fun with it once you get into this give it a try estimate how many rolls you want to do start with your scarf after your scarf start with designing on a pattern a sweater it will give you an idea of how many rolls you can do and when to add on or decrease

[@Falney]

The brother machines have a really nice garter attachment. The problem is that the needle in it is easy to bend/break and since they are no longer manufactured, are expensive to replace.

[@knitsnbitsbynomadicreative5861]

Love it that you are loving your machine knitting. Been in using my knitting machine for 3 years non stop every day 🥰. For a week now taking a break because of a quilt project. So far LK 150 is a power horse and has less usage with double bed KM. It helps with my carpal tunnel and tennis elbow problems. For LK150 look for Kriskrafter Needle Beetle and the weaver-R for pattern making in LK150

[@carriejansen7935]

I completely know what you're talking about I got my first knitting machine four and a half years ago and it was The ultimate sweater machine a plastic bed machine in about 5 months later I fell down the rabbit hole of finding an antique knitting machine as well on Facebook marketplace I wound up getting the juki knitting machine with a riber bed. And I got to say it is absolutely amazing the things that you can do with these machines I still use my plastic bed machine all the time it's just a little bit easier to get stuck in that fabric quickly on whereas my juki knitting machine which is the same as a singer machine you can do all kinds of intricate things with it's absolutely amazing so I completely understand your excitement welcome to the knitting machine world. Oh and there's a lot of awesome old timers that have millions of videos out there on how to do all different things on our knitting machines

[@charlottelee1152]

Excited for you getting a new machine! It's interesting to see what you can make out of it.

[@sweetgeorgia]

I will show you the ribbing swatches next week! So cool!!

[@lous.6372]

I bought a knitting machine in 2002 and used it for a couple of years then sold it. I regret selling it now. This brings back memories. I'm pretty sure mine was a Silver Reed, same gauge. I used punch cards to knit various patterns.

[@patriciapoot1180]

Just to let you know, I bought a knitting machine yesterday! I found a NIB Empisal Knitmaster Zippy Plus. It is the exact same machine as the silverreed SK280. The owner bought the machine new, tried it decided machine knitting wasn't for her and put it back in the box and on a shelf. Brand new, complete, the one drum was seized from old oil, but it has been removed and cleaned. Now to put the carriage back together and start knitting. I can't thank you enough for giving me the push to get back to machine knitting.

[@sweetgeorgia]

That’s FANTASTIC!! Seriously I wonder how many unused machines are out there in the world, waiting for new excited owners to give them a new life. Hope you have fun with it Patricia!!

[@lisalelland8251]

Yes, I fell down this rabbit hole, two knitting machines later, one retro 1970’s Brother new in its box. I’m still learning. I’ve been making double stranded sock blanks for dyeing and then knitting two at a time identical socks.

[@sweetgeorgia]

What?!? Wow!!! How do you knit two at a time socks on a knitting machine?! 🤩

[@lisalelland8251]

Sorry for the confusion, the sock knitting part is back on traditional needles magic loop. I have making the double stranded sock blank down to about 15 minutes cast on and off on the flatbed

[@partyfiesta1557]

I hear on falling in love with yet another fiber craft you thought you wouldn’t touch… it’s happening for me too: I am getting into bobbin lace making and just the tools alone are worth collecting. Next in line is machine knitting for me as well but I lack the space…

[@knit_ted]

So excited to see you explore machine knitting! I got my LK150 about 9 months ago and the Brother version of your Silver Reed about 3 months ago. A great mental challenge. A few stiches of a garter selvage is actually really easy on a LK150. I found it easiest on the carriage side. Just undo the last three or so stitches and reform as purls. I did for all the raglan edges of a pieced sweater and it didn't slow me up at all. There is a group called The Machine Knit Community run by Nic Corrigan that I highly recommend. Great members and tutorials. I see someone else mentioned Helen Sharp's school. That's great. Overall machine knitting is more fragmented and with more paywalls then hand knitting, but lots of good people

[@dadirayichinheya788]

I saw a knittung machine on a second hand shop. It looks just abandoned with parts scattered. I really ant it but am not sure if i will be able to add one and 2 or assemble it ti work

[@julietpage4322]

Oh you don’t know how excite I am that you are exploring machine knitting! I got my first machine in 1989 - a KnitKing Compukmit IV - same thing as a Brother 940. I’ve been rolling around the bottom of that rabbit hole ever since, as currently have 6 machines (3 Ult sweater) and 3 electronic brothers - standard and bulky with all the gadgets and computer stuff! Last year I finally found a vintage 1917 Gearhart CSM. You’re right that understanding a flat bed will help with a CSM. Play close attention to tension, weights and how stitches knit off. Flat beds seem to have a wider range of tension capability while CSMs (at least m6 antique one) seem to have a narrower range of being happy. You might look up fully fashioned knitting for shaping your arm holes etc. there is a way to put half the stitches in hold and work one half of the shoulder (decreases/shaping) remove on waste yarn, then shape the other half. The easiest way to do garter stitch is to get a garter bar. It lets you remove all stitches onto it, flip it around, and rehang the other way. Then knit that row, turn and repeat. Trick for garter bar is to load up stitches with the divots in the bar so it “holds water”. Then those divots when turned the other way are little channels for the needles to hook the stitches. It takes a bit of practice but is a very useful skill. I also use the garter bar to remove shoulders, then rehang and do the cast off across the shoulder (front + back) on the machine. There are a few good MK groups on facebook. I learned to,knit from my Tante Anni when I was 9 years old. Totally forgot how until I was in my 20s and understood knit stitches from my MKing and was playing around and my muscle memory kicked in. Turns out my hand knitting is an odd continental style! Totally different from my Moms Irish HK style.

[@christineholbrook1107]

I'm so excited to find your site . I haven't machine knitted since about 1985 . Have a Toyota KS901 and ribber there're second hand as I gave my original Toyota away . Am looking forward to making garments. Trouble is machine knitting patterns haven't moved on from the 80s , but some of the vintage patterns from 50s and 60s look interesting. Would need a bit of tweaking , so going to have ago. Am looking forward to seeing what you make . I only like natural fibres .

[@disneyknitter7040]

You are so right, think of the sock knitting in the round.

[@artsygala]

There is definitely a learning curve to these machines. I've been machine knitting for over 10 years and I still haven't used all the features of my Singer 700 and Brother SK260. Excellent mechanical engineering went into these machines. When these machines DO need some attention, there are very few technicians who know how to service these machines around anymore and original (made in Japan) parts are getting hard to find. We need a resurgence of machine knitting!

[@sweetgeorgia]

Here here, I would LOVE to see a resurgence in machine knitting!

[@jonboz7585]

I can certainly relate to your journey into knitting machines. I had a "passing interest" in circular sock knitting machines (CSMs) about 10 yr ago, so I purchased a used, 84 needle, Legare machine that lacked a ribber. Then, came another 72 needle, Legare machine with ribber and several attachments. After a year, I discovered the most excellent, Ehrlbacher-Gearhart machine company (located only 50 miles from me). This led to two more CSMs (a 60 and 72 needle machine), both with ribbers. At the annual meetings of the Ehrlbacher machine company, held in Cape Girardeau, Mo, I heard about flatbed knitting machines. 4 years later, I now have 4 flatbed machines (Studio 155 bulky, two Studio SK 700 standards, an LK 150 misgauge), all with ribbers, except for the 150. Numerous accessories followed, like garter bars for all the flatbeds, winders, electric spinning machines, lace carriages for the SK 700s, card punches for writing my own patterns, etc. Except for the LK 150, the three Studio machines were used. Most came with accessories, like circular needles for hand knitting, programmed punch cards, scribbled notes inside the instruction manual, and even several pages of handwritten comments for making sweaters for family members. As I was using the machines, I would often pause and think about the women who lovingly made garments for members of their family. All the machines hadn't been used in many years, but they needly only minor cleaning, lubrication and replacment of sponge bars. It was clear the original owners had taken good care of them. 2 months ago, I finally sat down and learned to hand knit. It was not as daunting as I had imagined, though it is much slower process. Interestingly, I found that I really liked knitting garter stitch, something that was much more difficult on the flatbed machines. Right now, I'm working on my first scarf in super bulky yarn. Hand knitting will also come in handy when I need to make repairs to socks, scarves and hats. I am an amateur woodworker, as well, but find myself using the knitting machines more than my saws, planers, jointers, sanders and routers. Great hobbies!

[@nataliablake6643]

Nice video blog! I am curious, how long would it take for example to make a square 50" x50"?

[@dragonlord0666]

at one point I had 7 knitting machines no idea how many I have now. sadly I do not have 7 knitting machines room space LOL actually you ARE making things, all those swatches you can join together to make a blanket or even a sweater or jacket (or hat)

[@rosalindtaylor3479]

Crafts classes by Susan Guagliami are excellent. She is the premier machine knitting teacher and author.

[@treasureddesignsllc90]

I was gifted a Knitking KH 891 and a Singer Mod 155. I’ve never knitted only sparingly crocheted. But it’s fun learning.

[@PatientFarmer]

I'm trying to fix up an old 801 knitting machine. I'm excited to get it working again

[@maried3717]

Kriscrafter sell garter bars in different lengths for the LK150 and they all attach to make the length you want. There is also another carriage for it....I don't remember off hand whether it is a fairisle or intarsa carriage. At one time they used to sell both. Also Kriscrafter sells the Needle Beetle carrige for the LK150. I don't have fun making swatches like you do....I have the habit of jumping in and just going for it. After listening to you I am going to work on changing my mind set and try creating a library for both of my main machines. I have the LK150 and the Knit King 260 with ribber that I have yet to attach to my machine. I also inherited an LK100 and a Knit King standard guage. I have used the LK100, but the standard gauge is intimidating to me because of the fine yarn it requires. I don't wear sweaters, so I don't do them. I stick to shawls, wraps, scarves, accessories, fingerless gloves, and household items like tea cozies, etc. I also like to knit pieces and incorporate lots of crochet elements, switching from knitting then to crochet and back to knitting. It's a lot of experimentation.

[@CarrieMtn]

Not cheating. It’s like a drop spindle vs wheel . Sewing machine vs hand sewing. Fire pit cooking vs electric stove. All tools require skill and knowledge. I’m not immediately interested in a flat machine, but I would love a sock machine. Have fun.

[@derrith1877]

There are a number of Circular Sock Machine groups on Ravelry. I've had a CSM since 2013 & love it. So does the family - because they get new socks, that actually fit their own feet, regularly. I'm glad I watched this - I have a gifted to me instead of the curb flatbed knitting machine that I've never set up - you give me inspiration to try it.

[@MsMegil]

Thank you for this! I’ve been toying with the idea as my fingers get less nimble but didn’t know where to start. I look forward to seeing you progress and hopefully I’ll figure out just what it is I need to look for in machines.

[@zephyraK]

Thanks for the video and you enthusiasm! I completely agree: learning something new is amazing. I felt for a a long time that I would never start quilting, because I thought I didn't like the result nor the process. But how I was wrong: In the last year I found some wonderful patterns and I finally started quilting and learning applique at the same time and actually got a specialized quilting sewing machine now. Same with Diamond Painting: I thought it would be boring, not really immersive, but then I got sick and didn't have the energy to dive into complicated projects (and if you're really tired, knitting stockinette can already be too complicated), and Diamond Painting became my go to on those energy-deprived days. So I totally agree with you: don't block some crafts or techniques, just try everything!

[@AnnikenAllis]

I have a vintage Silver Reed but had to pack it away as I didn't use it enough then 3 years ago I brought it out again but didn't use it enough. I don't have space to leave it up if I'm not using it regularly. Problem is it hurts my neck & back using it. I have chronic neck pain. I think of machine knitting as a completely separate craft to hand-knitting & a different skill set. Of course there a similarities too but machine knitting is more difficult than many people think.

[@maried3717]

I have the same problem with neck and back pain. But I want to knit! So I just deal with it...I make my self stop every 30 minutes....get up and get a drink or move around. I suffered 40 years from chronic pain from a double spinal injury and had to do this at work to get by. It helped a lot!

[@AnnikenAllis]

@@maried3717 i can sympathise. I injured my neck in a car accident aged 14 & again aged 30 plus horseriding accidents. Living with chronic pain is not fun! Hand-knitting doesn't aggravate the pain as much as machine knitting.

[@india1422]

I have two machines, including the 150, that I’ve never used. At the moment I’m on a fiber hiatus as we have clothes moths and I’m trying to eradicate the blighters I bought some of your yarn in a yarn cage in Paris about oh…. Maybe 10 years ago? It was gorgeous

[@star_athena]

This looks like a fun rabbit hole! I have an Erlbacher Gearhart speedster circular sock knitting machine and I love it so. I definitely relate to the “I could never” when considering certain crafts though there aren’t many left now. 🤣

[@sweetgeorgia]

Fantastic!! Those sock machines are what pulled me into this rabbit hole 🤣 glad you love yours.

[@patriciapoot1180]

Awesome!!!! So glad you are knitting on a machine. We need courses on this. I have the LK150 and have owned the SK280, Passap, Brother mechanical and Silverreed computerized machines. I'm looking to buy the metal bed again ;) The LK150 is anything but simple. You can do so much, fair isle--I have the fair isle carriage, intarsia is easier on the machine than by hand.Did you know this is the machine that knit designers use for their handknitted patterns before publishing in a magazine? How did I ever miss this video??? You made me buy my Mira II, I now see a Silverreed in my future!!! *Please list on SOS which of your yarns are suitable for which knitting machines. Can't wait to see what you publish with your machines!