Erlbacher Speedster Circular Sock Knitting Machine (CSM)... it's here! // Episode 181 // TBF

[@janetburnett3935]

I went to a craft retreat and there was a woman with an antique CSM. It was mesmerizing watching her work. She'd had it for years and her movements were synchronized with the machine; it was performance art. Thank you for sharing this with us. I love your channel.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Thank you Janet! I know, watching videos of these experienced CSM knitters is inspiring… kind of like watching long-time hand knitters. Everything is so smooth, practiced, and fluid. I hope to get there one day.

[@audreydeneui192]

At the risk of sounding like a toddler, I want the box! 😆

[@audreydeneui192]

You could make puppets from the practice pieces!

[@darinakalinova2180]

Dear Audrey, you don't but if it's going to make you smile, I waaaant this box too.🤣😁

[@audreydeneui192]

@@darinakalinova2180 🥰

[@tammyg3984]

Omgsh me too

[@diannefitzmaurice9813]

I got my auto knitter new - one of the last from Harmony Maine - in the 80's. But I never became proficient then. It was a long learning curve and I would start and get going and then something comes up and have to put it away. The biggest challenge and still my goal is using my handspun angora. I have made some lovely things including 70/30 angora socks that got me through the Kingston ice storm in the 90's nice and long with ribber and all . And I made these in 20 minutes for each sock . I am not keen on making a lot of practice things with practice yarn (besides I hate acrylic !) since you have to learn the settings all over again when you use the yarn you want . And since my handspun natural fibers is so dear I don't want to waste it . So I have found it better to make a lot of things with tubes that gives the practice needed to master the basics of cranking, tension and not dropping stitches etc. There are a lot of thins that can be made on this machine besides socks . So a good start are some of these things from the simple tube: Scarves,, headbands, wrist and arm warmers, legwarmers, boot toppers, toques, baby hats, stuffed toys, iPad covers, cell phone covers, water bottle cozy's, cowls, balls and decorations etc. Then move on to socks and a variety of hats. I did recently acquire an equal slot ribber so will see how that goes. But I have a new strategy for the angora. That is to spin it 1 ply @ 100% quite fine - about the equivalent of a lace weight and ply it back to some commercially spun wool to give me a 50/50 wool & angora without blending but with lots of halo . I found the most wonderful yarn from Italy- 19 micron merino. It is a great alternative to the superwash craze that is killing the environment because it gets into the waterways and is killing the waterlife. Superwash is coated with oil based plastic so is basically an expensive synthetic. Superwash retains none of the benefits of real wool. It releases these particles with every wash. So this yarn from Italy is preshrunk so can be put into the washing machine but it is not coated so it still has the benefits of wool and is environmentally friendly . It is called Il filorosso yarn and would be wonderful if somebody like Felicia could carry and promote it in Canada. Now it is quite fine so when used for socks, heels and toes need to be reinforced with mohair. But I think it will be great for hats and scarves and other things as well. And it can be acquired undyed so great for indie dyers.

[@rozknitz]

As a sock machine owner, I know exactly how you feel. It is such an exciting time. So many late nights playing with my new toy. I really wanted ribbed socks, so that it what I made first. I watched and followed along with Miss Jenny Deters ribbed sock video until I got. The crank-ins are a great opportunity to meet new people and learn new techniques. Happy Cranking!

[@megancanflyy123]

your passion for sock knitting really made my day. really appreciate how much thought you put into your craft! great video :)

[@candicevader]

I've been watching a lot of videos about the Erlbacher Speedster as I'm going to order one later this year. Yours's was one of the good ones because you talked about all the problems and adjustments. As an experienced hand knitter, I couldn't figure out how to get "gauge" with a machine, and now I know. Thank you. I hope to see more on your CSM journey.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Glad I could help! And good luck on your decision too! I spent a TON of time reading through all the posts on the Erlbacher Facebook group to see what people's experience was like and what they were able to make. I think it helps to do the research before you make the leap! :)

[@dianem7563]

I don't own a sock machine but I found this fascinating. Please be sure to post more on your learning journey.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Thank you so much for watching, Diane!

[@lynnbrown3548]

Hi Felicia, so glad you now have your cam! I got mine in March and love it. There is definitely a learning curve to all aspects of making a sock. I struggled with the ribber and finally made my 7 yr. old granddaughter a cute pair of socks on the 60 cylinder. I still have to go really slow on the heels and toes and watch the stitches don't ride up. Moving the heel weights is critical for me although I've watched some seasoned csm knitters just using their hands to reseat the stitches ...maybe one day! There are excellent resources on You Tube that I've turned to MANY times. I had a zoom session with Steve Ashton (The Wizard of BC) when I was struggling with the ribber. . He is excellent and so giving of his time. Enjoy your machine!

[@sweetgeorgia]

Thank you so much Lynn! I’m working with the 60 cylinder too and trying to make socks for my 6 and 8 year old, but finding the tubes are too loose. For sure it’s a learning curve!! Enjoy yours too!

[@lynnbrown3548]

@@sweetgeorgia For my granddaughter I did a one by one ribbing for the cuff and then a one by three ribbing for the rest of the leg and the top of the foot. It was a thicker yarn so worked out perfectly.

[@sweetgeorgia]

@@lynnbrown3548 I’m going to try that!!! Still need to figure out the ribber 🤣

[@lynnbrown3548]

@@sweetgeorgia Definitely a learning curve! Persistence and patience are required. I just ordered some of your yarn as Steve says that’s primarily what he uses.

[@sweetgeorgia]

@@lynnbrown3548 aww thank you!! I hope you enjoy it!

[@crowznest438]

I'm impressed by the quality of the machine and the packaging.

[@patriciabeames2850]

I too have a CSM and found there is quite a learning curve. I began in July and only by the first of December did I feel comfortable enough to start on the 48 pair of socks for Christmas gifts. It was frustrating at times but you are right about practice, practice, practice… Don’t get discouraged! Patty. PS. Earlbacher has great support, I called so many times, we were all on a first name basis!

[@anpier926]

Very kind, patient and intelligent learner, and teacher. Thank You!

[@anapantelic782]

I’ve had a sock machine for a number of years now, and have knitted just over 200 pairs of socks by now. My machine is from New Zealand. I was living in Australia when I bought it.I wound the wool onto a pirn originally, made a small stand for it, and that served well enough for a time. I have since purchased Maurice’s cone winder, and knit from the cone, which is a much better solution. I cannot praise the cone winder too highly, it is an absolute blessing.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Yes!!! The cone winder makes knitting socks so much easier! Love that you’ve made over 200 pairs of socks already. That’s amazing! 💪

[@anapantelic782]

@@sweetgeorgia Not so amazing. I use art yarn to create them, give them silly names, and include them whenever I exhibit my work. I’m not sure whether people like the socks or the silly names, but they buy them.

[@denisekinsley3554]

You've done an awesome job - best I've seen so far - in describing *how* the machine works, so this retired engineer sends a big Thank You. 😊

[@loue6563]

I have wanted one of these for years. Maybe one of these days I can afford one. Excited to see all that you do with it.

[@MsLmccarthy]

I purchased this CSM and ended up returning after a couple of months. It is a beautiful machine but learning how to use it cost me hours and hours or time. I didn't know this video existed at that time and if I did, I might have kept my CSM. Getting help and learning how to use it was frustrating and I spent hours combing through KZbin videos looking for random answers and an organized tutorial. I didn't expect that learning how to use it would be so difficult. I think that purchasers who are new to CSM's should really understand that when they buy a CSM that it's going to a steep learning curve and you will be on your own for this trial and error experience. Thanks for the video.

[@sweetgeorgia]

@@MsLmccarthy oh yes! The learning curve is a challenge! I also sought out as many learning resources as I could and even now, I’m still learning and practicing! I’m sorry you didn’t have an easier time with the process 😞

[@qltygrl3187]

I wish these weren’t so expensive. I’d love one!

[@lynetteruest480]

I would love more CSM videos and machine knitting videos. Thank you!

[@sweetgeorgia]

@@lynetteruest480 they are coming!! 👍

[@sickofitcindy]

Hi Felicia! I got mine about 9 months ago. I realize that I probably should have gotten the 60. I got 64 and I have been making socks but it was more of a challenge to find the right tension because I too like a firm sock. My cam is fairly high and I always use the heel spring. I’ve been too scared to try the ribber yet lol. One of the first things I did is keep a notebook with yarn brand and base, wpi, number of plys, a micrometer to record the depth of the cam, which weights I used, whether I used the heel spring and gauge measurements. Full disclosure, I no longer swatch every yarn. If they’re similar to one already in my notebook, I use those settings and they’ve been fine.

[@cindybird4723]

You are doing great with a notebook . I have kept a notebook on my hand knitting. I'm not sure it will help, but plan to keep my notes on my progress. I can't wait. I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas

[@sickofitcindy]

@@cindybird4723 I had to because I was charging settings too drastically at the beginning and it was a disaster! A big yarny mess

[@crowznest438]

Thanks for all that information in one paragraph.

[@Christi78knits]

I love the color of yours. And I really appreciate you sharing more of the working mechanisms of this machine and talking about the need for sampling, tweaking, playing. A CSM is on my bucket list but will probably be a 2023 purchase.

[@ermakers1297]

Just watched a video earlier of someone running a very old sock knitting machine that they demonstrated how to produce a seamless sock that didn't require using the kitchener stitch to sew anything. It was a neat process.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Yes! Knitting the socks from the toe up means you don’t need to Kitchener…

[@margarethiggins4381]

Great video. I love your honesty. I got my machine a year ago but my mother passed away and there was a lot going on and I was unable to really spend the time I needed on my machine. I am able to make a sock but I still have to be very careful with heals and toes. I have watched a lot of videos and one thing that really helped me was realizing that heals and toes are really the same thing! I have a ribber. My daughter got it going but I have yet to use it. Looking forward to more of your videos.

[@shirleyconnell5464]

Just got mine and put it together. I have never knitted or crochet by hand so I have zero knowledge. Thank you for this video would love more on how to operate

[@Solace-in-Stitches]

A learning curve for sure! I've got a 3d printed csm and am loving it so much. I've managed 12 pairs so far and it goes quicker and easier each time. And I've made so many people happy with them already 🤗 keep sharing your csm adventures

[@MarjoleinVeenendaal]

Oooh I saw a model on Printables a few days ago and that kind of sent me down a CSM rabbit hole! So exciting to see a comment from someone who has a printed one and likes it. I've been thinking of printing one for myself, even though I am not a knitter at all! (I'm into cross stitching and sewing so not completely new to fiber arts.)

[@susanwarren8368]

Thank you for such an informative video. I look forward to seeing more about your CSM adventures.

[@marcfruchtman9473]

Super creative and very cool tool. Thanks for the video.

[@Automedon2]

I have no interest in knitting, but this person's presentation is so awesome and the machine so interesting that I had to stay for the whole thing

[@juliaswart4596]

I got mine and couldn’t get it to knit- the needles were too high- so I took it all apart. That was a good lesson- don’t do that until you know where the pieces go! So far (since May) I’ve cranked a ton of tubes- made a few heels and one hung hem. It’s so rewarding!

[@susanmachler1495]

I ordered mine in mid-February. I'm so excited. I can only watch this video in 5 minute increments because I can't sit still!

[@stacilockman329]

I”m about a month behind you. I ordered mine in March and it should be here soon. I appreciate you discussing the learning curve.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Almost here! The shipping date will come in no time!

[@cindybird4723]

Thank you for sharing your csm .I have just ordered mine but it's a long wait. And I would like all your experience on yours so, I don't get overwhelmed! Cindy,thank you

[@sweetgeorgia]

Absolutely. Wishing you a speedy wait! I hope to have this machine for a long long time, so I'm not in a rush to make "things" yet... I'm happy to learn the skills, slowly but surely!

[@Ravencall]

Great video! Sharp learning curve is right! I bought an EG and was so very excited- the thought of finishing the table never occurred to me! Like you, I was thinking of ways to make a table- maybe adding a table top to an old treadle machine- but when my husband suggested that I just buy the EG table I didn't need any arm twisting! I love it. I have not fallen in love with the machine, though because of so many little frustrations. I have made some socks and made some fun discoveries. (A tube of 1 x 1 ribbing on a 72 cylinder makes an incredibly stretchy snug sock - even for a child- but I haven't figured out the best way to pick up the stitches for an afterthought heel.) I really need to make a more efficient notebook and become more comfortable with the machine.

[@MapleNutDesigns]

How exciting Felicia!!! I would love an Erlbacher (maybe one day). I did just receive my Dean and Bean’s 3D Printed one on the 15th (today is day 6 with her!!!) I got the Kitchen Sink package so I have sock cylinders and ribbers for 48, 54, 60, 64 & 72 along with a colorwork mast. Like you, I am having so much fun learning!! I haven’t attempted heels and toes yet, but I have tubes and learning to cut them to put in heels, toes and cuffs. Mine came with a drill attachment to wind my cones, power tools and knitting is FUN 🤣. If you would like some amazing how to videos on a CSM check out Dean and Beans KZbin- they have about 120 how to videos…all CSM’s are roughly the same. Congratulations and I cannot wait to see more of your CSM videos. I just love your Channel

[@Laurpud]

The learning curve is steep on these machines! I bought mine a few years ago, & didn't get a color choice - I'm so jealous 😄

[@criandocroche1019]

Gostaria de saber onde vc comprou,ainda não consegui!

[@lynnrixson1094]

How well explained was that! So interesting and listenable. Thank you so much !! 😊

[@katknits]

Too much fun! I can't wait to see watch your adventure with the CSM. Thanks for the video!

[@sweetgeorgia]

Thank you for watching!

[@sandraburmester3950]

Sounds exciting. I am waiting for my D&B Sock machine. Which is on my budget. I can't wait either. Have fun learning.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Those D&B machines are genius. Would love to hear how your experience goes!

[@merrideedobbeck5369]

Thank you for such an informative video. I was feeling a little overwhelmed by what I needed and you helped me so much. I appreciate you.

[@crystald3655]

Yes, if you remove needles you'll increase the size of your stitches aka gage. For a tighter fabric youll want to increase the weight or size/ thickness of yarn your using. Its pretty similar to hand knitting with just one size of needles and adjusting everything else to get the gage you want/ need.

[@nataliekinscher7116]

This video was so great!! Incredibly helpful, I can't wait to get my own machine now. Great choice on your custom color, it is a beauty!

[@TheBayoubreeze]

Awesome! Can't wait to see your first piece. 😊

[@sweetgeorgia]

Hahah me too!! Right now it’s just all samples. 😆

[@QuzieSuzieQ]

So excited for you finally getting your sock machine!

[@Thepaintedtiger]

So excited to see you championing knitting machines and CSMs. I started making socks on my Brother 930 with ribber, and I still prefer to make them that was as it is 'easier' to do a more traditional heel flap and gusset type sock. I totally plan to figure out something roomier in the heel on my Legare 400, but I need to knuckle down with one yarn type like you and figure it out. My cylinders are 54 and 72, and neither is right for the gauge I want for my yarn, so the first step may be getting a 60 or 64 for it. Like anything you want to learn, consistent practice is the answer.

[@Candywarhol]

Beautiful/exciting vid. Loved watching and jonesing for more!

[@blindnmorethan1eye]

Love my EG Speedster. It took several months of practice to get a really good sock made. The great thing about these socks is that they last! My husband has been wearing his full ribbed socks every single day for three years. (About 20 pairs) I had no idea that they would last as long as they do. He washes and dries them in the dryer too.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Yay! I’m so glad to hear this!! I’m working on getting to ribbed socks too! I love the socks I’ve made so far… so comfortable!

[@amyhass6861]

Excellent video Felicia. I wish this video would have been out when I got mine a year ago. I went through all the trial and errors you mentioned and I too have a huge respect for the machine sock knitters. At first I just did tubes and then knit in the heals, toes, and cuffs, but then migrated into the heals and toes on the machine with a folded hem cuff. Thank you for this video!!!

[@tracysadtler3569]

I just got mine yesterday - ordered in early February. So excited!

[@vanessab3384]

Hi where did you buy one from? I'm obsessed with this machine.

[@HeartsandYarn]

i love it! Im so glad you sharing this process with us! I definitely will be watching avidly. I have a Knitting Machine and Oh my is it ever about pacing yourself and slowing down and paying attention to all the tension aspects. It was only when I started learning a machine that I Realized that a big part of my love for knitting is the tactile enjoyment of the motion and the feel of the fibers. Seeing your new sock machine makes me want one just cuz its sooo beautiful every part of it is elegantly industrial. but my knitting machine can make socks too soo:( Ill probably not be getting one for a few more years yet.

[@MonaC-sr5vq]

Thanks for sharing your excitement with your new sock machine. I am considering getting a sock machine and this helped.

[@melissagoetz8847]

I order mine about two months ago and can’t wait for it to come in! 🤗

[@cindybird4723]

It's a long wait .

[@fogops1]

I love your videos and can’t wait for my machine to arrive in a few months. You do such a great job explaining everything!

[@jojorey6886]

Quite a learning curve.

[@KarlSmith-p5r]

In the UK we call gauge, tension. For example, kniting patterns will say the tension is 22sts/28rows to 4 inches.

[@wildflowerwind6941]

Love the color of the machine.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Thank you!! I do too! 💗💗💗

[@veraklokocka4406]

Hello there, I enjoy watching your videos. As far as knitting the children socks on the machine, the best and the fastest way is the method which is called "sew as you go", There is a video on you tube : "my machine knitted socks" I use all the time making the children socks of any size. I am lucky as I own the same old hand fed Knit King knitting machine so, sizes are no problem. Same goes for the Passap sock knitting. It is faster for me to knit the Passap sock - again any size - on the Passap then cranking it on CSM. But otherwise, the cranking is fun - enjoy!!

[@sweetgeorgia]

Fantastic! Thanks! I’ll check out that technique!

[@veraklokocka4406]

@@sweetgeorgia It is easy, you will like it.

[@aroundtheworldfibers]

How fun! I am a sock freak. I love socks. I can't knit them fast enough. Maybe one day I'll have to invest in a sock knitting machine. After the loom....ha ha. 😊

[@sweetgeorgia]

I can't knit socks fast enough by hand either! But I love hand knit socks so much!

[@kellipage2858]

Thank you for sharing video about your new fiber toy🙌

[@barbarastefani254]

Love how it’s built

[@weegie2818]

You're on your way. I'm team heal spring.

[@elsarivera7356]

Hi Felicia, I really enjoyed watching this video. I usually just hand knit my socks on 4 needles. I do the crochet provisional cast on. But, my question is, I sure would Love to see All your Yarn Stash & where you keep it at Home. To me that also a Great thing. All I can think about is that, you sure have a lot of stuff that has to do with the Fiber Art. Cool. Hope you have a Blessed Day/Evening when you read this message. Bye for now. Sincerely, Elsa R. (From out in California). :-).

[@markwilliams1824]

Fascinating! I’ve used a regular knitting machine, seen the sock one, never knew much about it… 👍🏼

[@delcodeb]

I'm #15 on erlbachers wait list im.hoping to n get mine in the next 3 weeks! Looking forward to learning with you!!

[@sweetgeorgia]

Fantastic!! It works straight out of the box! Have fun with it! I’m practicing heels now, over and over 😆

[@manoaiferribymichi]

Grazie e complimenti per le spiegazioni dettagliate!🍀🤗🍀

[@teresaallan6841]

I’m at about the same stage as you! I have a refurbished machine. We seem to have found some respect for each other! My plan this summer is to figure out the ribber. One interesting thing I’ve discovered is that when you go to put in afterthought heels and toes, you knit in the opposite direction from how the sock is knit. I find that you have to find a good way to reverse the direction or knit everything inside out. Would love to hear what others say about this. Good luck!

[@cindyjensen8885]

My csm will be coming in September or October. I can’t wait to learn along with you.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Have fun! it will be great!! I hope to know more by September :) haha!

[@lauralineparadis-robert7254]

Mine too! I can’t wait either!

[@laetitias5567]

I am currently looking for a CSM and just discovered your channel. This is fantastic content, very clear! You are a great teacher. I subscribe right now and will look the rest of your videos, because I am also a spinner/crocheter/knitter etc. A wool lover one can say :) I am currently wondering if I take a 60 or 64 stitches for CSM knit socks for my feet (size 8). Hope I'll find the answer on your other videos! Many thanks for your content!

[@marionbowler5440]

I loved it, but it sounds complicated, I've never made socks, but I think I'll try this fall. Thank you for sharing. 🍁🐘😊🇨🇦

[@juliescheidler7763]

Exciting & very cool!

[@lousieortman826]

I have an antique knitting machine in my stash I don't have a proper table and chair to set up thanks for info on that

[@sweetgeorgia]

Yea, the table was easy to put together and so helpful so far. Good luck getting yours up and running!

[@francinesanchezsanhueza7093]

Ohhhh!!! Dónde venden esa maquina ?? Me gusto mucho..

[@kathyperry8252]

Thanks for sharing!

[@kristyann9641]

I have the machine, can’t figure it out. Don’t have a teacher next to me. 😭 glad to see you are working on it.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Aww! I’ve found many super helpful CSM knitters in the Facebook group who have been very generous with sharing their knowledge. If you are close to a crank-in event, there would be people who could help you in person too!

[@kristyann9641]

@@sweetgeorgia I know, a few have reached out!!

[@andio5151]

Thank you! You're an inspiration!

[@jozknittin]

I ordered my csm in March! I ordered a 64 but I'm wondering if I should have ordered the 60. Will that still fit a wide foot? Is it better to be able to loosen the tension than tighten it?

[@india1422]

In the UK at least when I was growing up we used tension to mean gauge. Possibly different now with the internet

[@IslandLady76]

So interesting. Did you test out the smaller handle? I would have thought it would go with a smaller cylinder to do smaller socks.

[@ksisu1324]

How do you know which size of cylinders to get?

[@SueSue1443]

Any updates? Would love to see a completed pair of socks. I’m debating getting one. I’ve seen great CSM handwarmers, too.

[@sweetgeorgia]

Yes! There will be more CSM videos … I’ve been working on perfecting my top down stockinette sock ☺️

[@sweetgeorgia]

Oh I did make a second follow up video about using the CSM ribber too… sweetgeorgiayarns.com/2022/07/learning-the-csm-ribber/

[@SueSue1443]

Thank you! Love that you are sharing your learning process.

[@alaynezadar8312]

Thank you for sharing! I just ordered my machine this a.m. then saw your video! Love the color you chose!!! Very encouraging to see you making so much progress already...how did you learn to do the heels and toes?...maybe there is a video or link you can recommend / share?

[@sweetgeorgia]

The instructions are actually in the manual that comes with the machine! But there are several good videos about heels and toes too. I’ll make a list of links for the blog…

[@sweetgeorgia]

Oh and congratulations on your machine!!

[@alaynezadar8312]

Thanks, Felicia! Look forward to seeing where this journey takes us!

[@Gondolette]

Hi, love your tutorials btw, thanks so much for your inspiration. A question. Can you hand knit the tow of the sock, put those onto the machine, do the foot part of the sock on the machine, do that bit, then take off the machine for the heel, then put back on to the machine and the rest?

[@sweetgeorgia]

Thanks for your message! I'm sure you could... if you knit the toe of the sock and then knit a few rows of waste yarn, picked up off the waste yarn, and then cranked on the machine... I think logically it would work... but it's so much faster to do the heels and toes on the machine, it would save a lot of time to just do it all on the machine. Unless you're looking to knit a specific time of heel or toe that couldn't be accomplished on the CSM? I'm so curious now!

[@1949chefjojo]

I want to purchase a circular sock machine for The Sewing Klatch. It is worth learning

[@Soozit]

you have higher SEO + google presence than this company 😂 I tried looking them up and you were the top result

[@vanessab3384]

Hi, where could I buy one? I'm obsessed and so need one.

[@susanvanalyne6454]

Hi, Felicia. I absolutely love the finish on your Erlbacher table!!! After an exhaustive search I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s a Canadian product. LOL. I’ve found it on Amazon but only in a clear finish - did you use clear or tinted wax? Thanks for your help! Susan

[@sweetgeorgia]

Hi Susan! I believe I used this one: osmo.ca/product/polyx-oil-high-solid/ in a satin finish. I got mine at Lee Valley in Vancouver, but I know you can get it in the US because I watched a ton of review videos on KZbin about it from US-based woodworkers. Maybe have a look here: osmocolorusa.com/ they might have a list of suppliers. Good luck!!

[@susanvanalyne6454]

@@sweetgeorgia, thank you so much!!!

[@lauralineparadis-robert7254]

So interesting to hear what you have to say! I followed you in the machine knitting rabbit hole, playing with flat beds machines now while I wait for my CSM in Sept or October! Did you find the flat bed machine knitting learning helpful at all? Is some of it relatable?

[@sweetgeorgia]

Exciting Lauraline!! Yes I found that some knowledge is transferable … including setting the stitch size, preparing source yarn, making gauge swatches and finishing them, and the action of the latch hook needle is key. One thing that tripped me up was that the carriage on a flat bed is all contained, so once the carriage passes the needles, the needles are free to be moved. With the Erlbacher, you have to watch the trailing cam to see when the needles are free to be moved up or down. If the needles are within the cam area, they will appear to be stuck. That was a good bit of learning for me. 🤣

[@rachellove9995]

So I wear a size 7 shoe, how do I figure out which cylinder I need to make socks for myself as well as others?

[@sweetgeorgia]

For sure! Erlbacher has a great FAQ on their website that can help you decide on the cylinder size. I chose a 60 cylinder because that’s how I usually knit my socks. And I also got a 72 to make bigger socks and it also gives you the option to make smaller socks by taking out every other needle. But if you talk to crankers they have their own personal preferences. I kind of wish I had ordered a 48 but that is to make socks for kids, but that’s just my preference. If it helps, I’m also a size 7!

[@rachellove9995]

@@sweetgeorgia awesome thank you so much for your reply!!! I can’t wait to fulfill my sock making dream as well. Much love and thank you for your great content on your channel!

[@yolandasotolopez]

What is the cost for this machine?

[@sweetgeorgia]

This package with the two cylinders and two ribbers was about $2400 USD. It is less expensive if you just get one cylinder and no ribber.

[@beckyshook3526]

I have wanted one for many years my sister knowing this found one antique for sure that someone was selling and got it for my bday a couple yrs before covid I was soooo excited the lady said she just couldn't work the math???? I tried and tried to figure it out that took a hole yr I only ever wanted to so sock tubes as I love knitting in all forms and just wanted to do toes and heels by hand. All I could do was make nest nasty yarn nests. But I pressed on and on I knew it had to be a tension thing I kept thinking I know it wasn't math that was her problem but on I went I watched every video that was ever made they all never talked about tension I watched one on a machine that wasn't the same she took it all apart cleaned it oiled it and so I do that it was neat to do but still the tension? I kept saying then one yr I got the flu thirty days of being sick to the day I went back to church yep another thirty days it happened one more round but knowing this would be yet the third round of thirty days I rewatched every video out there and then I saw one that said two things one was the tension I fixed it but then still having to ladder up and so I watched it more closely I ordered new needles thinking that was it nope it was all good except she said be sure to oil the needles I thought what???? Here I had been trying hard to keep oil off them so now I knit my sock tubes and love it....it is your machine's ancestor and I love it so. Have you checked into getting a smaller cam mine came with 64....72......54. I suspect the 54 is for little people I and I would think they still make those from looking at your machine every thing is pretty much the same. If they don't you might ask if you found one would it fit then scour the universe. I will enjoy watching what you do.

[@india1422]

Very interesting

[@constanzehancock8667]

Can you add a drill to the handle like the Addi has, so you don’t have to crank all the time?

[@sweetgeorgia]

Hmm I wonder… you might need a powerful drill 😆 also cranking by hand gives you control over creating the stitches. I’ve seen someone rig their CSM so that they can pedal it like a bicycle 😳

[@patriciapoot1180]

Will you be offering courses on knitting on CSM?

[@sweetgeorgia]

I would love to be able to do that eventually!!

[@lauramyers4496]

Very interesting! May I ask which model you purchased? Thanks.

[@sweetgeorgia]

I think I got the super deluxe package. Basically two cylinders and two ribbers ☺️

[@TibbiScott]

Do the cones just sit there without being tied down somehow?

[@sweetgeorgia]

The cones sit nicely and usually don’t move much. If you are worried, you can also use a cone stand. I use the interlocking standing lazy kate from Dreaming Robots sometimes to hold the yarn cones.

[@tkippy]

I can see a small cordless drill turning that handle

[@sweetgeorgia]

I've seen people connect their CSMs to bicycle pedals to make their CSMs foot-powered. It's amazing.

[@offplumbnan]

I have a new FAVorite channel!

[@lindapelech9828]

are these worth the investment? Do you think the socks would sell at a craft fair. I'm sure a pair of socks would sell at a minimum $30 per pair. also how does a 3 D printer machine compare?

[@sweetgeorgia]

All good questions! For me, I’m just using it for making socks for family and friends, so I’m not looking to sell the socks. People DO crank socks to sell and I think there is a range of prices, depending on your market and location. I would look at doing calculations on how long it takes to crank a sock, how much yarn is used, and what the cost of the raw materials comes to. In some cases, sock yarn costs up to $30 a skein, so the costs of the socks would need to be significantly higher to account for the knitter’s time and profit. Finally, I haven’t had a chance to try a 3D printed CSM, so unfortunately I can’t compare the two.

[@Dresscodes.by.Jacky1312]

Looks amazing! I just got into the topic of knitting machines and I'm baffled :D also: what camera are U filming with?

[@sweetgeorgia]

Thanks! I’m filming with a Canon R5 for this one. 👍

[@Dresscodes.by.Jacky1312]

@@sweetgeorgia Thanks fot the answer =)

[@irmar]

Thank you so much for making this video. Advertisement makes it seem a breeze. I think I'll concentrate on hand knitting for now.

[@thefinaljudgment]

What is the price of machine and is scaf are made or not

[@KleverskoyeFarm]

Do you have a link on where I can purchase one?

[@sweetgeorgia]

I would email Kim at Erlbacher ([e-mail]) to order right now. I believe they were having some website issues and they might not yet be resolved. Kim is AMAZING and will help you with your purchasing decisions. 💗

[@Klubnika678]

Es kostet 2000$??? Kann man eine komputer Strickmaschine mit Doppelbett kaufen und stricken alles wie du willst.