Prym Maxi & Generic Knitting Machine Reviews!!

[@1949chefjojo]

I enjoy my ADDI knitting Machine. Thank you, Margaret for all your Tutorials. As a Senior Citizen, I needed all the new tutorials I can apply to my life. I live off the grid. It has been a wonderful adventure. I find it useful. 😘

[@sheepishlysharing]

I'm so glad I could be helpful, Joanne! Glad to know you're not so far off the grid that you don't have internet! I would miss you!

[@vicki3451]

Thank you so much for your interesting and comprehensive reviews. I've been sewing, crocheting and knitting for over 50 years but have never used a circular knitting machine. I have finally ordered one! I went for a generic machine (the packaging is identical to yours), because as a beginner, I couldn't justify outlaying too much money. Hopefully I'll enjoy it, and then may upgrade to an Addi. PLEASE continue to upload videos, they are so informative, I've been binge watching them. It's obvious you know what you're talking about. Keep uploading and I'll keep watching!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad to know I had something helpful to share! Have fun!

[@GrootsMamaw]

I'm in the market for a machine and your review in just this video has helped me tremendously! I'm going to spend the money and purchase an Addi. I'm on a fixed income and feel that spending the extra money now will save me in the long run. Thank you for your expertise! I am now a subscriber and look forward to learning more about machine knitting from you!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad I could help, Sherrie! However, before you make any purchase, make sure you watch this video: Addi Express FAQs, Tips, Explanations! kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqKQZ2qtqNmKpbM

[@ShellyAuen]

Thank you for this. (1) I bought the Addi King after watching your videos. Two years strong making hats for donation. (2) Purchased the baby Singer after watching you. I just let it go to a little girl who broke the handle on hers. (3) Ordered the Addi professional and awaiting its arrival. So excited to have both Addis. (4) A friend has the Michael's brand and loves it. (5) Vanna's Choice is the go to yarn for my Addi. It definitely doesn't like Red Heart blue or red but the variegated ones have no problems. Caron big cakes is also good to use. Looking forward to seeing a six-month review on those machines. Thanks again for sharing your expertise with us.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Lots of good info in this post, Pebbles! I've noticed that some Red Heart colors do better for me as well. I also suspect that the variegated is a little bit thinner. I need to do a pencil wrap to test my theory but regardless... it just FEELS different to me. What do you think?

[@myturkishangoracatmeonkitty]

Very fluid, precise and honest review. Thank you. I was in the market for one, but did not want to pay $300+ for a plastic machine. I'm considering doing a large donation to a neighboring hospital for babies and Cancer patients. But don't have the time to do it all by hand. So, if I run across the 'generic' machine, I'm buying it. Thanks again. :)

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad to help and thanks for the kind words!

[@Civatate0]

Nice review! I have been eyeing these circular machines for some time now. I am new to knitting in general, but I am determined to learn. Thank you!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thanks, Lou. They're fun little gadgets!

[@IzaK710]

Hi, Margaret! I love your reviews. I'm from Brazil and here we have few knitting machine reviews. Among the dozen I've seen yours are the best! I can understand everything you say! I've decided to but a knitting machine and I almost bought a Prym. It costs about 200 US dollars at local shops and the Addi 300. Too expensive. Then I found the generic one. It costs 50. I bought it and I'm looking forward for it. Thank you for your reviews. You can't imagine how importante they are . And people all over the world can see them.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thanks, Izaura! Glad I had something helpful to share! I still love my little generic machine and I hope yours is a good one, too!

[@momgrandma5496]

I don’t use circular knitting machines, but your review was spectacular Margaret...you touched all of the bases. 👏🏻

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you for the compliment! I really tried hard on this one!

[@josefinapatrick1014]

Mom Grandma **

[@focusedfrances]

This is a wonderful option for for me when I want to still be a restive and create home made items despite inflammatory flare ups and I cannot grasp my needles or hooks. I am able to create beautiful things for the people I love and that is all that matters. Thank you for sharing. I bought a generic toy knitter 40 pin and it had the tension guide and it loves tension. No hang ups, runs, or tuck stitches. I watched it like a hawk!

[@sheepishlysharing]

So glad to hear it worked for you! Sorry to hear about your health struggles but I understand (Lyme... ugh.) Have fun!

[@moneemoon1147]

Thank you Margaret . I was real confused about the generic machine. Because it's the only available in my country. But ; thanks to you; I could make my mind.Thank you again for your videos

[@sheepishlysharing]

You're so welcome, Monee!

[@AndreBandarra1]

Thank you so much for your reviews and videos about these machines Margaret. I'm probably not your usual subscriber, I'm a mechanical engineer from the UK :) but since I saw these machines I found them very interesting on how they work and obviously very convenient to fast knitting. I'm in the process of designing and building my own from scratch and will have a video on my channel soon on how I did this and the final product (so far so good). Want to thank you again for your videos because the information on these machines online is so small I actually frequently use your videos as a way to get closeup shots and try to figure out how these machines work :) And obviously with you comparing so many different ones on this video, good quality image and detail shots it helps me even more :)

[@sheepishlysharing]

I LOVE that you're doing this! (I'm a former science teacher and love to figure out how things work.) What can I do to help you?? Is there a particular shot you'd like me to get for you? And have you seen the ones that people have hooked up to clocks to have it knit by itself?? And a rocking chair - knit while you rock! Ha!

[@AndreBandarra1]

ahah, that's awesome! I think from the videos I got a good enough idea of how the retainers, prongs and needles work. I have made 4 or 5 small scale prototypes of those and now seem to be working well enough to go to the next stage, starting printing the full size assemblies. At the moment I'm working on the cranking mechanism and the lifting mechanism (for the needles) so would be nice to see how they do it. But I'm not sure how complicated it would be to take one apart? Might be too difficult and hard to put back together. I've put a little update on how my prototype looks like at the moment here www.patreon.com/posts/18297809 By the way, I've never heard of the clocks and rocking chair ones... that sounds amazing and hilarious! :D

[@Barb515]

Have you seen the Addi King assembly? If not, you may like this video.kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3Okq2SuidlgrKM

[@sheepishlysharing]

I've never seen that either, Barb! Thank you! That's better than I could offer!

[@AndreBandarra1]

Thank you so much for the link Barb, that's invaluable for me to be able to see inside and funny to see that the way I designed certain parts (unknowingly) is exactly the same as what the Addi designers did :) I've just finished printing the first ring on my prototype and seems to be working fairly well. Can't to have it all printed and assembled to that I can actually crank it and see what happens :)

[@BeatlesFanSonia]

I hand knit and never gave circular knitting a thought at all. A coworker of mine thought I would like one so she gave me the loops and thread one for my birthday. I know you didn’t have luck with yours but mine is still going strong after three years. Thank goodness for your videos because I knew nothing about these machines at all! I’ve used mine to make flat panels for making felt and for dying the yarn. I’ve also made hats and ear warmers. I seem to have better luck with natural yarns rather than acrylic yarn.

[@sheepishlysharing]

How wonderful! So glad you're enjoying it! (And what a thoughtful coworker 😍

[@NanaMom104A]

Margaret, I enjoyed todays review and one thing I really found interesting is that some of the tucks in the stitches made by the Prym are similar to what I find in items that I make with my Addi King size. And they caused me to box it up and store it away. Now...I am in the middle of doing a little renovating my apartment but once done, I am going to pull my addis out and do yard testing. Thanks for your informative review.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Yes... try different yarn AND the trick of adding weights!

[@cookie761]

Thank you so much for the advice about the sock yarn! I would have never thought of that. But if I did decide to make some fishnet stockings I might try it! God bless you Margaret!

[@sheepishlysharing]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@Alex-jk1tm]

Fantastic video Margaret! I've been using the generic machine for a couple of months now and I love it! Have made many scarves and beanies. I've just perfected the flat panel now, which is so exciting as well. Your channel inspired me to Circular knit from the beginning. Thanks, and looking forward to many more wonderful videos.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I love that little machine, too, Alex! In September, I'll do a 6 month review but I can tell you right now in 2 words: It's great!

[@angelad7164]

I agree with u alex Im new at this and my hubby has just ordered me a circular machine Alex u said u made some hats and flat panels Please can u tell me what length do u make ur hats as my sisters having kemo and i want to a hat 4 her and the charity also? Do u no how to do panels like blankets as i would also love to try that to? If u have any tips 4 me i would love them Thank u from me in the uk💟

[@Alex-jk1tm]

@@angelad7164 hello Angela sorry for the late reply. I normally keep turning the handle until the tube touches the table. That's a good length for a single layer beanie. I did figure out that if you make it double the length and cinch both ends, that you can invert it on itself to make a double layer beanie. The flat panel took a bit of work, but there were some really helpful online videos that made it a lot simpler. I had to watch three or four different videos before it made sense

[@Alex-jk1tm]

@@angelad7164 I have a feeling the Addi king-size machine would be better for adult hats because of the extra needles. The generic machine makes beanies just slightly too tight

[@angelad7164]

@@Alex-jk1tm Hi there alex Thanks 4 ur reply Im going to try to double the length to c if that helps How many inches would u do 4 adults hats and how many inches 4 baby unit in the hospital? Im going to try to make 4 my sister as shes having kemo rite now and im going to try babies hats 4 the hospital ready 4 the babies 4 the winter Thanks again 💟💜💟💜

[@katywhite8240]

I know this review is old, but from one Mississippi girl to another, I have to tell you. I bought a circular 44 needle machine on Wish! It works like a champ! I had to refer to your tutorials to figure out how to use it. The instructions were in Chinese!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Even the Addi machine has poor instructions! That’s why I started making videos in the first place. I just explained what I discovered hoping to help out some people!

[@BethBabineau]

Your videos are great! I am a weaver, felter, hand knitter and crocheter. I have also tried my hand at spinning. You'd think that would be enough, but when I found your videos on the addis, I had to try that too! I've had the small and big addi for a few months now and have just ordered the generic to get that in between size. Thanks for all of the investigation and experimentation that you do. It has helped me immensely. I'm now teaching my grandchildren to use the addis.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Wow, Beth! You're quite the artist! I just peeked at your channel and your felted figurines are BEAUTIFUL! I'll have to go back and watch some more! I'm first and foremost a techno person (computers) so my friends and family thought I'd lost my mind when I showed an interest in yarn crafts. Ha! I could learn much from you!

[@dianechicklo7961]

I did the same thing for the proym around the crank it helped.

[@fcomme5754]

Thanks for your videos. My Prym Maxi doesn't like light yarn, knitting is loose. Fluffy yarn is nice. And necessary put weight under or pull with hand while knitting. I hope to buy Addi's machines next, surely the best ones.

[@TaevlynZyr]

Love your review! Especially when you showed the different types of yarn and trial & errors on the Prym machine. It's exactly what I would have done to troubleshoot the gaps in the fabric.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thanks Taevlyn!

[@islandconey]

I really LIKE you and how you explain! So clear and concise!! Lovely!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, Natalie! What a nice compliment!

[@yeseniacontreras8038]

I recently started watching your videos and I'm hooked. You are so informative, which is great for a beginner like me

[@sheepishlysharing]

What a nice compliment, Yesenia! Thank you!!

[@sherrigray3862]

Thank you for your time

[@Barb515]

Thank you for another a great review. I appreciate the time and expense to do these. Glad you are feeling better. You were missed!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thank you, Barb! I love these machines and have had such a good time playing with them! Hope I’m helping people make some informed decisions.

[@mariaortiz8387]

Thank you for the information. You have been very helpful. I want to try doing knitting 🧶. Blessings ❤

[@rachelbrooks5525]

Thank you for the wonderful review - just what i was looking for! I have recently acquired the Addi Pro and wanted a bigger one, too - but without Addi King's price tag. Before reading your review I was thinking of getting the Prym, but you convinced me that the pink no-name one was better. Better still, when I looked on Amazon UK to see if I could get the pink no-name one there, the price was a lot lower than your US price. Needless to say, one is on its way to me...

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oh! Even better! I hope it’s the exact same one I got. The Prym Maxi would be good with all the great DK choices you have over there so if you’re not happy with the first one you try, that’s still an option.

[@anorganlover6281]

I believe here in the UK, we now think the PRYM is a little dodgy.

[@DixieGirl9876]

Very informative, thanks for taking the time and reviewing them for us. I don't have any at the moment.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I love these gadgets so I’m happy to do it! Glad I could help!

[@bonnieduke557]

Thank you for the detailed information and comparison. I recently purchased a prym machine (used with no instructions) to try it out! ✨😎✨

[@sheepishlysharing]

Ooo! Good for you! Great price for getting your feet wet in circular knitting!

[@nicolaking2704]

This is so useful - thank you. I have a Prym machine, bought here in UK, and I have to say I'm not that impressed. I hoping to try a Sentro or generic machine soon. Thanks for taking us through it all. Best Wishes

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad it was helpful, Nicola! Thanks for the kind words!

[@tinaspilman1548]

I just ordered the pink one, so excited! I crochet and said I have no desire to knit lol now I do. Thanks for all these videos!

[@sheepishlysharing]

You are so welcome! They're such fun little gadgets, aren't they?!

[@elizabethduggins5388]

Thanks Margaret I just got mine today its a sentro 48 needle one so just looking on what I can make with it

[@barbaratimmons5510]

I did not have any oil and as an alternative I brushed the needles with a cosmetic brush having dipped it lightly in Talc powder. It worked just fine.

[@Snowpaux]

Very thorough and helpful. Thanks

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@josieojeda7235]

Thank You soooooooo much for this video & sharing all you've learned by your experiences with these machines. I really appreciate all you do & love all your videos. Thanks again. 😊❤

[@sheepishlysharing]

Than you, Josie! And I'm so glad to have kind people like you who are interested in the same things I am!

[@californiacapybara]

Thanks for the reviews! I plan to purchase the 40 needle no-name one. I like the variety.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I love the width of that 40 needle machine. Excellent for toddler hats and regular scarves!

[@claraandriessen8423]

@@sheepishlysharing no adult hats possible on that one?

[@cookie761]

Margaret I'm so excited! I just got the little pink and white no name generic 40 needle knitting machine. It came all the way from China and the box was wrapped and layers of black plastic and taped all over the place. It was smashed very badly like it had written under an elephant for most of the trip from China! I took pictures as I opened it up expecting to have the machine in six or eight pieces. But the machine is totally perfectly fine! I am so surprised. By the way mine is made by D & D I guess. It seems like it's going to work very smoothly. I'm giving it to my sister so I haven't tried it yet. She's going to be the first to use it. I'll let you know how it goes. Thank you so much for all your reviews and for your teaching

[@sheepishlysharing]

If your machine could talk, you'd probably hear an interesting travel story! Mine looked similar to that, too.... wrapped in tons of bubble wrap covered in black plastic. You can kind of see the bent edges of the box when I briefly showed it. But the machine was fine. I hope your sister loves it as much as I do! I've made a ton on it already and it's working like a champ!

[@rockchick1960]

Extremely helpful review. Thank you. I think I'll go with the Addi.

[@csrichardson7973]

I probably did misunderstand. Thank you for setting me straight. I make a lot of hats and scarves, most of which go to our local homeless shelter; but I also make gifts for the doctors and staff at my Veterinary practice. There are about 40 employees there. I would love to use the more expensive yarns for their gifts. With four rescue dogs, we are up there a LOT! Again, my thanks! 😀

[@sheepishlysharing]

40 employees?! WOW! That must be a huge vet practice! You're so sweet to think of everyone!

[@melsmerk9262]

Thank you for your review! I love my add machines, but I am always interested in making other sized hats for charity. Thank you so much Margaret!

[@sheepishlysharing]

You're welcome! I was so pleasantly surprised by the performance of that pink machine! I hope it holds up since I'm getting quite attached to it!

[@KC-nb3st]

Extremely helpful. Thank you.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad to hear it!

[@csrichardson7973]

You convinced me! I will be purchasing the 40 needle D&D to make children size hats. Where I will put it "is a puzzlement" (as the King of Siam frequently said in "The King and I") 😊. I love my two Addis and this is the medium size I wanted to have. I always love your videos! Just as an aside, I made two reversible hats on my large Addi using Red Heart Fair Isle yarn. I just went slowly and watched carefully. Like you, I prefer to apply tension with my left hand and I gave it a very light touch. The design in the yarn is beautiful!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Yes... I shared that "go slow" tip in my Tips for Beginners video! It makes me sad to see people blame the machine when it's really the yarn that's giving them grief!

[@BeatlesFanSonia]

I decided to watch the video link you have for the tucked stitches which I seem to get a lot of when using acrylic yarn. She demonstrates how to fix dropped stitches which are easy to fix. She doesn't address tucked stitches that can't be fixed like a dropped stitch because they seem to cross over each other.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Who is the "she" you're referring to? Is there a specific video you can reference? As for me, I fix tucked stitches exactly as I would dropped stitches. You drop the entire column and re-knit up with a crochet hook.

[@BeatlesFanSonia]

Margaret Olander the “she” I’m referring to is the Answer Lady. I got her video by clicking on your link. My tucked stitches were sort of twisted. I did fix them like I do my regular knitting but the stitches never looked quite right. I only have tucked stitches occasionally now since I stopped using acrylic yarns. I really enjoy watching your videos. I can’t wait for your update on the generic machine because I’m thinking of getting it for my granddaughter for Christmas.

[@onetiredmamabear605]

I'm about to buy the generic machine on Amazon! I was going to use your link, but it appears to have sold out overnight. I found one that looks exactly the same in reviewer's videos and has all of the same information. Luckily, I know Amazon has a fantastic return policy if it's different.This will be great for my charity hats! Thank you so much for your lovely reviews. I've watched almost all of your videos in the past few days!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Wow! Didn't know they sold out but I like your approach as Amazon DOES take care of it's customers. And thank you for your kind words! Some of those old videos are horribly done as I lacked editing skills back then but glad they could offer you something of value!

[@cookie761]

I am very happy to tell you that I took the generic machine off of the wooden TV tray and put it on a metal (heavier typing table with wheels. I taped it on that also and it's working great for my friend who has Parkinson's! I did have trouble with all of the yarn that I tried on it before I tried the sample yarns. And she is using the sample yarn. Very soon she will use some other yarn and I'm not sure what to try. I'm assuming that it has to be a little bit lighter weight yarn? I wish the seller would have used some kind of yarn that we could buy. There was nothing written on the package of the yam they sent with the machine. So I do agree with you that this is a very good knitting machine and I believe the size will make a very nice neck scarf. Thank you again for all your reviews. You've probably saved me a lot of money! God bless you honey!

[@sheepishlysharing]

I’m so glad to hear it! Hope your friend enjoys it as much as I do!

[@supermelodia]

I have this singer pink, it's very good, I wish it was bigger like 46 or more needles.

[@hebasaad9746]

Thank you Margaret,great review,l have both addi,s,the prym and the pink machine,the addi is the best and the pink one is much more better than the prym for me .

[@sheepishlysharing]

Agreed, Heba! Great minds think alike!

[@margaretscrafts]

Well thank you Miss Margaret. LOL!!!! I just got the Loops and Thread one and love it so far. My son just got me the Singer one for my birthday last week, and my dear husband ordered me the Addi King size also for my birthday (counting the days till it gets here). I will wait till the L&T breaks before I order that pink one. I am having a ball with them. The baby Addi is next on the list.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I really liked that Michael's L&T KnitQuick and was sad when it gave out. Now I'm thrilled the pink one looks like a great replacement for it! We'll have to wait and see how it holds up. Just remember the trick with the weights and trying different yarn as you figure out what works best!

[@margaretscrafts]

Thanks, I have been watching several videos especially yours (smile) on the Addi, This year I wanted to start donating hats. But crocheting them was taking longer than I wanted along with my other knitting and crocheting, so I wanted to try the circular knitting machines. I am so in love with making the hats. Thanks for sharing all your videos.

[@knittingnana2939]

Omg Margaret . I have the sentro, the generic and now i have received my Addis and there is no comparison. The addi is sooooooo much better. I will still use the others b/c they are different sizes but the addi will be my go to when therevis a choice .

[@sheepishlysharing]

So now you know I wasn't kidding when I said that in all those videos! Hahaha! They really ARE quality machines! Have fun, Paula!

[@Diealtemithund]

The addi machine is around 100$ cheaper in GERMANY. I ordered me one the other day. I can't wait until I got it home. Thanks for the great video

[@sheepishlysharing]

Lucky you!!

[@DestinysPookie]

I have the Prym Maxi and it split the yarn for me also. i ended up getting a lot of dropped or tucked stitches also.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Keep experimenting with different yarn. Eventually you'll find the right one for you and your machine. Usually, the Prym Maxi does best with #3 DK weight. You can also see some of my other videos for tricks to try: Addi Playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLV9cndFtR5BVQrjZ7X1f0HRTV92kscJf2

[@lisadrake8048]

I just got my addi express in the get everything set.

[@veronicam4699]

Loved the video thanks. I’ve been thinking about getting one, I’m a crochet person myself but I know how to do some simple knit things. However I feel crochet moves along a lot faster. With this it would move a lot faster. 😍😍🤗

[@sheepishlysharing]

They're fun little machines, Veronica, but before you buy anything, make sure you watch this video: Addi Express FAQs, Tips, Explanations! kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqKQZ2qtqNmKpbM and my other reviews can be found here: Addi Playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLV9cndFtR5BVQrjZ7X1f0HRTV92kscJf2

[@CreatingwithWinglessAngel]

I looked at addi I could affored it but felt I couldn't justify such since I only make hats in the winter. The weaver epoch 40 stich is perfect. Pink & white not singer. Bought it on wish for $39.00 works great.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I've never heard of that brand but thanks for the intel!

[@myturkishangoracatmeonkitty]

An excellent review. Thank you.🙂

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad it was helpful! If you're new to circular knitting machines, be sure to watch this video: Addi Express FAQs, Tips, Explanations! kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqKQZ2qtqNmKpbM and I have other review videos in my Addi Playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLV9cndFtR5BVQrjZ7X1f0HRTV92kscJf2

[@maryboland5415]

Thank you for your explanation on the knitting machines I have the premium Max I have had it for at least 3 years and didn't quite understand how to work it now that I have seen this video I understand more. I would really appreciate more tutorial can you actually use this to make clothing like tops sweaters to wear. I would be very appreciative whatever other advice you have for the knitting machine.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I love these gadgets! Here are 2 good links to start with. The recently updated FAQ video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqKQZ2qtqNmKpbM and my blog page devoted to these machines: sheepishlysharing.com/circular-knitting-machines-useful-links-like-the-addi-express/

[@jenreeves7684]

Thanks for the review. It was so helpful. I'm just starting to get into loom knitting.

[@sheepishlysharing]

That's great, Jen! (Actually, this isn't considered loom knitting even though it IS a loom of sorts! When searching out info and tutorials, use the words "circular machine knitting" or just "Addi" to find what you're looking for. "Loom knitting" will just give you those manual looms and the patterns aren't exactly interchangeable with this!)

[@winifredmitchell728]

I would like to know, where can I buy the Generic pink and white color knitting machine. I want the exact one in this video? It did a really great job with all the yarns. Thank You

[@sheepishlysharing]

All links are in the description box!

[@dethcreeper69]

Hi Margaret Thank you for a very informative video. I now know which machine I will purchase and use with my voluntary groups.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad I could help you make a decision!

[@dethcreeper69]

@@sheepishlysharing Oh very much so :-) Have a fantastic day and thank you again

[@BeatlesFanSonia]

I received a loops and Thread machine from Michaels as a Birthday gift. I remember your review on that one! I really didn't know what to knit on it because everything comes out too small and I was having trouble with tucked stitches. I had been using only acrylic yarns and I didn't like the results. I also am not a fan of acrylic yarn. I put the machine away until I had a problem. I needed some felted wool and all I could find was wool felt which is cheap looking and it was expensive. I had some 100% wool worsted weight yarn so I decided to knit one whole skein of Patons Classic Wool and I couldn't believe that it knitted the whole skein without one tucked stitch or dropped stitch! I couldn't believe what a pretty fabric it made! I wasn't even careful because I didn't care if there were a few flaws in the fabric since I am going to felt it but it came out perfect!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Glad you found success!

[@marilynmoore9618]

Hi Margaret, thanks so much for your most excellent videos! On your sale page, the generic machine in this vid is no longer available. Are the other machines in this same category similar as best you can tell?

[@sheepishlysharing]

As best I can tell, Marilyn, they appear to be pretty much the same. If you click on that link anyway and look toward the bottom of the page it brings you to, you’ll see suggestions for similar products. I’d choose whichever most closely resembles the original. (But that’s just my opinion.)

[@M15Guys]

Brilliant and in-depth review. I really wanted the Prym to do better, because it is in my price range and I have to say it looks the most grown up out of all of them ! I know the appearance doesn't really matter, but I cannot part with around £100 for the very plastic Addi machine with its cheap looking gold handle ! Also, the 'no name generic' one you have there looks more like a childs toy so, like you, I was surprised it did so well in your test ! Thanks again, though, very helpful video and I am hoping that the flaws which occurred on the Prym was specific to the model you bought and not representative of the product as a whole !

[@sheepishlysharing]

This is just a reminder that we should never judge by appearances! And yes, the Addi IS plastic but the quality of the plastic is very different which is why it's a long-lasting, quality machine. I can certainly understand not wanting to spend that kind of money but it IS clearly the best. However, I'm enjoying that Barbie-looking machine! Who would have thought?! Nobody's going to see you using it (unless, of course, you put it on KZbin like me. Ha!) But the Prym works well with DK so that's a fine choice if you just don't want to look at the pink and white.

[@GirlArmy21]

That cranking sound would drive me nuts!! I would prefer to pay a little more to get a professional level machine for sure. Addi seems to be my choice more and more.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Well... Addi machines are made for home use so they're not exactly professional level but they ARE a higher quality. That's for sure.

[@libraw864]

Thanks so much for your review...

[@lothrop53]

I just bought the generic from wish I’m excited my granddaughter will maybe can try it

[@sheepishlysharing]

Good! But remember that just because the pictures are the same doesn't mean the machine is the same. AND just because it's a different machine doesn't mean it won't work! You may have good results, too!

[@lothrop53]

I got my machine the generic one it’s awesome. My granddaughter loves it. I keep winding it, have to wait so she can do it. It’s addicting

[@sheepishlysharing]

Why do you have to wait?! No sense in letting it sit there all alone until she returns!!

[@Miyori999]

I've had the pink generic one about a week and have made several hats (including adult size by adjusting my tension and yarn weight), one sweater for a very reluctant cat, and two scarves, so I've had great luck with the tube knit setting. I can't for the life of me figure out the panel knit though.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Somewhere in my Addi playlist is an older video by Suzy Notting. She goes slowly and explains it well. Addi Playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLV9cndFtR5BVQrjZ7X1f0HRTV92kscJf2

[@marcelinakuminska4908]

Hello Margaret. Is there an video in which you show knitting of a flat pannel?

[@sheepishlysharing]

Not at this time and I explain why in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqKQZ2qtqNmKpbM Here's the best tutorial (in my opinion) for flat panels: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpSzh6WeeNOambs

[@dianehogben5010]

Hi I cannot find the answers of where to get the Generic machine what you were showing on the knitting machine reviews, I found your video very interesting as I am thinking about getting a machine so could you let me know where this could be purchased Diane from UK thank so much x

[@sheepishlysharing]

Links are in the description box but not sure if they’ll work for UK

[@Crafty3627]

I purchased the White lithium grease you recommended. I was wondering if you could do a video on how to use it for the knitting machines. Your help with this would be appreciated.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oh, goodness, Eloise... I've had that on my to-do list for years but it would be a HUGE time eater so I keep putting it on the back burner. Basically, you lift out each needle and rub some grease on it and put it back. While the machine is still open, slowly turn the crank so you can see how it works and apply grease wherever plastic touches plastic. Be sure to blow out dust or fibers before greasing, of course!

[@Crafty3627]

Margaret Olander Thanks for the feedback. I will try it. I was thinking of lightly smearing some of the grease on a couple of rounds of yarn and running it through the machine. Then running clean yarn through it to wipe any of the excess. What’s your opinion of that?

[@sheepishlysharing]

Eloise Gallo No, the yarn doesn’t touch the moving parts. You need to take plot apart and grease the base of each needle and the carriage that goes round and round. Anything that touches plastic on plastic. BUT... this isn’t something that needs to be done for several years or unless you’re experiencing a problem

[@Crafty3627]

Margaret Olander okay, thank you so much for your guidance. I don’t want to do anything to harm my machine. I’m really enjoying it. I look forward to all your videos like a child visiting an ice cream parlor.

[@yvette7582]

Hello would you recommend the sentro over the prym max or the other way around? thanks!

[@christinaschuricht8506]

Lil larger then the singer..i like it thanx for the review I'll have to check into that one becuz i actually like my lil singer and have figured out how to use it very well...as well as my loops and threads from Michaels... maybe some day I'll figure out how to do videos on here lol and help some others on how i use mine...

[@sheepishlysharing]

Well, it's actually almost twice as large as the Singer. (Singer has 22 needles and the Pink one has 40 like the Loops and Threads.) I'd love to see you do some videos!

[@thecelticglider3627]

Do you still recommend the pink machine? I have both sizes of Addi, but would like a machine with less teeth for another size option. Love your videos!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Yes I do! Look in the description box for links to the products I recommend!

[@samanthanicholson9015]

What's the link for the hot pink machine? That works great. Thank you for the review

[@sheepishlysharing]

Amazon doesn't seem to carry this exact one anymore. However, Sentro has begun making 40 needle machines: amzn.to/46kn9To

[@samanthanicholson9015]

it doesn't do well with cotton or 4 worsted weight the needles keep thread in and sounds like gears are skipping and something inside sounds like it's rubbing

[@sheepishlysharing]

@@samanthanicholson9015 Actually, none of them do well with cotton. There is no "give" with cotton as you get with other fibers.

[@samanthanicholson9015]

@@sheepishlysharing thanks. I bought some lion brand thread. Hopefully it'll work better, the rest yarns I have are all acrylic red heart.

[@SteveB357]

I've found that Wool-ease works really well on knitting machines. Give it a try.

[@sandraholden9066]

What is Wool-Ease please? I am in Australia and haven't heard of it...

[@stonecrestquilt]

@@sandraholden9066 It’s made by Lion Brand which is one of the most widely available yarns in the U.S

[@Alimacasi]

Thanks for the review. I too like that there is a machine just a little smaller than the Addi kingsize but bigger than the Addi professional. 😁

[@sheepishlysharing]

AND that it's not as expensive as the Addi brand!

[@Astronautin]

Thank you! :)

[@joyce.amukulonindimuli8560]

Happy new year Margret how can I get this machine?

[@sheepishlysharing]

Happy new year to you, too, Joyce! Links are in the description box! But before you buy anything, make sure you watch this video to help you make your decision: Addi Express FAQs, Tips, Explanations! kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqKQZ2qtqNmKpbM

[@joyce.amukulonindimuli8560]

Can you assist me buying the machine?

[@sheepishlysharing]

@@joyce.amukulonindimuli8560 I provided all the information I can in the description box. I don’t work for these people. I’m just an American consumer!

[@joyce.amukulonindimuli8560]

Thank you for the information

[@sweetpooey]

Hello Thanks for the awesome video. When you change colors do you cut the yarn all the time. If so, is there away you can carry the yarn? I hate sewing in tails 😕

[@sheepishlysharing]

I haven't found a way I like yet. If I'm striping doubled hats I don't sew the ends in at all! They'll be hidden between the layers.

[@TheMzTR]

Tks for sharing this with us

[@earlenemoon8567]

On the generic one, you recommended one. I looked for it, and all I saw was the name brand Sentro. Is this the same one that you recommended? Please and thank you.

[@trychrochet71]

Thanks,great info,I hope to get a small addi one day,I find red heart best,I tried cheap dollar store yarn and it was awful,I might try the weight thing

[@sheepishlysharing]

Everyone's experience seems to be different so keep trying different yarns and the weight trick is definitely something to try!

[@cookie761]

I'm still trying to figure out how to tie it down somehow. I hot glued it to a plastic cover and I'm going to duct tape that to a TV tray. I think it'll work very well then. I think you're right about the stories these machines might tell!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Let me know how the TV tray works out. I'm thinking it's not stable enough (will rock while you crank) but I'd love to be wrong about that!

[@tomekaridley6371]

I finally got the pink and white generic knitting machine last month. I've been playing around, experimenting with it. Played with the tube and panel settings. Made a few sample hats and a scarf. None of them were perfect because I was just testing yarn. And I made alot of sample strips to get the idea of the gauge. So far all 40 needles with a worsted weight (5mm) yarn yields me 11 inches across. I tried Vanna's Choice (5.5mm). This plastic machine really doesn't like it. Although I can make a good tube knit, the machine really struggles moving around in a circle, the handle occassionally skips, and sometimes there are stitches. And I would have to go back and fix it. I didn't have any problems whatsoever using Caron Cake Yarns, Caron One Pound, Caron Simply Soft (All 5mm). And So far, Red Heart Soft Yarn (5mm knit; 5.5mm crochet) has been gliding around the machine. It's thicker than Caron Simply Soft, but thinner than Vanna's Choice. Bernat Baby Sport Yarn knit really thin and see-through, edges kind of big and flimsy, and lots of drops stitches. I'll just have to knit with it on my KB loom; and avoid category 3 yarns on the knitting machine. Have you tried the Eyelash Ice Yarns on the generic machine? I want to knit some furry-type yarn on one of my knitted projects. But I'm not sure if the machine will like the yarn; or not.

[@sheepishlysharing]

What a tremendously helpful comment, Tomeka! Thanks! Everybody seems to have different experiences so it's great to hear these details. I'm curious as to why some yarn works well for some people/machines and not others. (For example, I can't get Caron One Pound to cooperate at all... not even on my Addi Kingsize!! What is your secret?? I totally agree about the #3 yarns being too loose for most projects although it does give more horizontal stretch thus allowing a bigger hat size (but I prefer to do only the reversible hats to provide added warmth if I use lighter yarn.) I haven't tried the furry yarn on that machine but I have on my Addi. It works well by itself but when I put it with a worsted weight, all the fuzzies tended to go to the inside. You can see what it did in the Santa Scarf video (go to the end 18:17). kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4m2pZqojax9ibs

[@charlotteceeko2026]

Good review I just might have to get one. Thank you.

[@sheepishlysharing]

They're fun little machines!

[@EllenMHelms]

Margaret, when you talked about oiling the grey machine (can't remember the name now), you reminded me that sometimes I feel my Loops & Threads machine from Michael's could do with oiling. I bought it a year ago and, depending on the yarn, it still works beautifully! Can you describe how you oil the knitting machine(s)? Thanks so much!!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Well... it’s very hard to describe in words. The Answer Lady has a video on how to do it but it’s not very clear but still worth looking at. I’ll have to put a “how to video” on my list of things to do next week.

[@EllenMHelms]

Thank you! I'll go take a look :-)

[@bruderlein8514]

I had the same experience with the Prym Maxi. I lost so much yarn because the stitch teeth kept catching the yarn as the needle came up and splitting it. That's to say nothing of the dropped and tucked stitches, and piled stitches because the teeth/needle wouldn't knit through. I tried different yarns, tension, weights, everything. The legs are a major issue as well. Even if you secure them to a surface, you have to make sure they don't come away from the machine itself while you knit. Even with careful knitting, turning up on the handle would be enough to yank the leg out. Could just be me, could just be the particular machine I received, but I wouldn't buy another one. The lesser price isn't worth it to me.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thanks, Karen... that's why we do these reviews and leave helpful comments! Sharing our experiences makes more informed consumers!

[@j.laniwinkler9903]

Hi Margaret, First of all, I love your videos! I am a loom knitter (knifty knitter and Cindwood looms) I am getting ready to start hand dying my yarn colorways and am interested in making double-stranded sock blanks. I read your comments on this video and you said that the gauge is really large and would make more of a fish net but I think for making sock blanks for dying it doesn't matter the gauge. I also read that You don't like flat panels. I've been looking at the Loops & Threads knitting machine and the addi express and I am just not sure that I would use the machine enough for the cost of the addi machine. So between the Looms & Threads and the pink generic machine which do You think is most appropriate?

[@sheepishlysharing]

Well... I wouldn't recommend the Loops and Threads machine since it doesn't seem to hold up very long. (That's the one I was referring to in this video that broke and had to be thrown away.) There are other options. Here's more info to help you make your decision: sheepishlysharing.com/circular-knitting-machines-useful-links-like-the-addi-express/

[@maryabbott5270]

J Lani Winkler to

[@anorganlover6281]

Just for sock blanks - then the pink generic may work. Or what about the new SENTRO ?

[@islandgirl5382]

Just curious; Why do you demonstrate with Acrylic yarn vs. Wool and Silk, which I will be using.

[@sheepishlysharing]

Most people looking for an inexpensive alternative to the Addi Express machines will be using acrylic from the big box stores.

[@EllasGramma]

Hi Margaret! I was wondering if you did any flat panels on the pink machine? And how it worked for you?

[@sheepishlysharing]

I didn’t bother with flat panels because I find them tedious. You shouldn’t have any problem as long as you choose the yarn that works well on that particular machine.

[@cindyp2181]

I'm getting ready to purchase the generic one, but.... can you make adult hats with it? thanks and Happy New Year!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Yes and no. The tube is really too small for adults sizes but you have the flat panel option so you can make virtually anything by sewing panels together. Before you make any purchase, be sure to watch this video to help you make your decision: Addi Express FAQs, Tips, Explanations! kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqKQZ2qtqNmKpbM

[@amandall3633]

A fabulous review Margaret. I want a machine to knit blanks so that I can dye gradients. On Amazon ,the generic machines all appear to be the same,except their have different names. Can I please ask what the brand is that you've used?. Many thanks Amanda xx,😊💕

[@sheepishlysharing]

Here you go! sheepishlysharing.com/circular-knitting-machines-useful-links-like-the-addi-express/

[@cookie761]

Remember when I told you that Addi was going to send me an Addi Pro that actually counts rows? They said I could keep the one that doesn't count and they would send me a new one. I finally got it today. Something slowed down their production I think. I was so excited and then I started testing it out and it binds up at the black needles. So I'm going to have to contact them again. Just thought I would let you know what's going on on that front!

[@sheepishlysharing]

Oh dear... what an ordeal!

[@johnkelly4032]

Thanks for the review, just ordered the generic one, and looking forward to trying it out. Have you done how to videos of using this and other round machines? Thanks again. John

[@sheepishlysharing]

Yes! Years ago, when I first got my machines there was little to NO video info out there on these things and the written material wasn't helpful so I took you along with me as I discovered how to use it: kzbin.info/aero/PLV9cndFtR5BVQrjZ7X1f0HRTV92kscJf2

[@hopegencyuz4734]

Can you give me a idea where I can go to get videos for patterns for the addi knitting machine

[@sheepishlysharing]

I have several in my Addi Playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLV9cndFtR5BVQrjZ7X1f0HRTV92kscJf2 and be sure to watch this video: Addi Express FAQs, Tips, Explanations! kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqKQZ2qtqNmKpbM as I talk about search terms and user groups.

[@melindarm1975]

I have just found your videos and so far they have been super helpful. You may have already covered this in another video , but how do they perform with flat knitting?

[@sheepishlysharing]

Maybe better as flat panel requires a slower hand and more of your attention!

[@dianasimoes9960]

Hi, need help...i own a generic... i can cast on, knit and cast of circular but in flat mode, i cast on like they say and then when i start to knit i can only make 4 or 5 rows, in every row it decreases one and then i cant move the crank... can you help me please?

[@sheepishlysharing]

I’m not the best resource for flat panel knitting. Look in the description box for a link to “everything I know about circular knitting machines.” You’ll find a link to a really helpful Facebook group.

[@paintnknitter]

Love your videos! Do you find the pink generic machine to be a bit noisy? It's quiet without yarn.

[@sheepishlysharing]

The heavier the yarn, the louder it gets BUT... that's true of all machines I've tried!

[@paintnknitter]

@@sheepishlysharing Thanks, Margaret. We took the machine apart and greased it. It's doing better now. I took the panel ring and switch out since I will only use the tube. You are right, DK is better.

[@crpuravida2]

Is there a way to put some needles out of work to create a lacey look?

[@sheepishlysharing]

You can take the machine apart and remove some needles or just try skipping a few. The prefered method is to just knit, take it off the machine and drop the stitches manually.

[@SimplyMaurcrafting]

Great review! I have both Addi’s and use them for my charity hats. I also have the innovation machine that’s used for children’s hats. Your choice of the pink one seems like a positive “get your feet wet” machine .

[@sheepishlysharing]

Thanks, Maureen! I worked hard on this one! I was not prepared to like the pink machine at all but it was really impressive!

[@cookie761]

Hello again! I am in need of some of that lubricating oil you talked about in one oh your videos but I can't find which video it was. Please tell me the name of it? Thank you so much and God bless you

[@sheepishlysharing]

Here you go: amzn.to/2tS8CgZ

[@cookie761]

Margaret Olander thank you so much! Now my only question is......where in the world did you put it in the machine? Did you put it along that little track that the bottoms of the needles go around in? Sorry to ask so many questions but I don't want to mess this up. I'm glad to report that my friend with the Parkinson's has made a very long scarf and enjoyed every minute of it! Now she wants to buy a machine like this but she has to have a really good coupon and we can't find who would carry that machine and have a coupon anywhere around here.

[@sheepishlysharing]

I put it everywhere that plastic touches plastic. Around the needles, around the thing that holds the needles and turns them around... everywhere. I don't know of a store that carries those machines. I've only seen them online.

[@cookie761]

Thank you so much! I ordered some of that lubricant and I will do my best.