Have you tried a knitting machine?
Hands up if you love knitting but wish it was quicker to do? We have the solution! Why not invest in a knitting machine? They allow you to make regular knitting projects like hats, scarves, socks and toys but in a speedier way. No wonder knitting machines are so popular on social media with crafters of all ages. Want to know more?
Our handy guide for how to get started with a knitting machine will answer all the questions you have about getting a knitting machine. Are you ready to spin some yarns? Let’s go!
What is a knitting machine?
Industrial knitting machines have been used by the fashion industry for years as a quick way to make the mass-produced knitted clothes that are available from high-street shops. Independent maker designers also use knitting machines to create products like scarves, clothing and interior items like knitted cushions in a much more efficient way.
In recent months knitting machines have risen in popularity, and even trended on social media – but these knitting machines are different to the traditional industrial ones.
They make knitting projects fun, speedy and easier for crafters eager to make their own knitted accessories more quickly than by hand knitting. Some people wonder if using a knitting machine is cheating, but we like to think of it as giving crafters more choice.
Knitting machines are different to hand knitting and if you can already knit by hand, it’s worth knowing that machines work differently so it might take a little time to adjust. Alternatively, if you haven’t done hand knitting before and go straight onto a machine, you will still need to learn how to knit with hand needles for that method.
Different types of knitting machines
There are two main types of non-industrial knitting machines used by crafters and hobbyists. The most popular is the circular knitting machine. When these first came on the market they were designed for children but thanks to brands like Sentro and Addi, larger adult versions are now available too.
Circular knitting machines are lightweight, made of plastic and typically have 48 needles. They have two settings on them allowing you to knit in the round to make hats and socks or panels like scarves. You can also join panels together to make a garment like a jumper.
Flat bed knitting machines are rectangular and are similar to how an industrial machine works but they’re lighter and easy to store at home. They’re more expensive than circular knitting machines and are likely to be used and owned by knitting professionals. They’re ideal for making larger garments.
They have two layers of needles, top and bottom and this allows you to shape your knitting which is better for garment making. You can also use them with punch cards which helps you create colourful patterns like Fair Isle or knitted lace.
Getting started with a knitting machine
Yarns
The best type of yarn for a knitting machine is regular DK yarn. 4-ply works best or other lightweight yarns. Avoid chunky yarns as they won’t work with regular knitting machines and may cause problems like getting stuck.
Knitting patterns
You can get specific books and patterns designed especially for knitting machines but you can also use a hand knitting pattern and convert it to a knitting machine pattern. The most important thing is that just like for hand knitting, before you start a new project always make a test square to work out your tension and adjust the pattern accordingly.
Setting up your machine
Depending on whether you have a flat bed or a round knitting machine the set-up will be different. It’s best to follow the instructions that come with the manual for your brand of machine.
What you need to get started with a knitting machine
First of all, you’ll need to choose your machine. If you're new to knitting machines, it's best to start with a circular machine to see if you enjoy using it before investing in a larger, more expensive flat bed machine.
The cheapest knitting machines are for children and they cost between £30 and £40. Adults' machines have more needles than children's models. The needles determine the width of what you can knit, so if you're making adult size garments you'll want a model with more needles.
If you are keen to purchase a flat bed knitting machine they vary in price from £500 to machines that cost over £1000. The price typically reflects the materials used, cheaper one may be made from plastic and more expensive ones from metal. Gauge size may vary too so consider what type of knitting you'll be doing, fine knits or thick knits as this will influence which model you buy.
You’ll also need your yarn and a knitting pattern. If you have a circle machine, you can knit a wide range of accessories like hats and gloves – look for patterns that use basic DK yarns for the best result.
If you have a flat bed knitting machine which can take thicker yarns you'll be able to use a wider range of patterns including clothes and larger blankets.
Inspiring ideas – knitting machine projects we love
Getting any type of new craft gadget opens up so many possibilities but it’s often tricky knowing what to make first! Seeing what other crafters are up to provides great inspiration. On Pinterest, it’s easy to save pins and make mood boards or on Instagram you can save images and videos in your own collections. Look back at them whenever you need ideas.
One of the bonuses of using a knitting machine is that once you’re comfortable and proficient in using one, you can slash the time it takes to knit by hand. Basic knitting projects like beanie hats and fingerless gloves can be made in less than an hour which is ideal if you’ve got lots of presents to make.
Here are some of the machine-knitted projects that have got us excited about trying this trending craft ourselves.
Fingerless gloves
Knitted trousers
Geometric handbag
Scrap yarn scarf
Reversible hat
Ready to get started on this new craft? Good luck and happy machine knitting!
Do you love crafting? Share your creations with us by tagging @primamag in your pictures on Instagram!
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