Machine Knitting

fig 1 fig 2 fig 3

Using a knitting machine for the first time can be tricky as seen in figure 2 the intricate setting up of the machine and the checks you need to do before starting can be frustrating, however it has been an enjoyable journey on the whole. The speed at which you can knit is incredible and the different techniques that can be applied can make your knitting very interesting.

These examples show:

Hemming, this is where you lift previous stitches back onto the needles leaving the existing ones on and knit them together this gives you a fold, and can be implemented at the end of the knit or throughout the knitted piece for design. You could also ad holes and fold on the holes to make a scalloped edge.

Tension, You can alter the tension of the knit to give a larger or smaller stitch. This can give you nice strips.

Holes, can be produced by lifting one stitch of a needle and placing it onto the one next to it. You need to leave the needle in the same position as the others so the machine can pick up the stitch on the next row to create a hole. If you push the needle right back the machine will not pick up the the stitch again and will create a ladder effect. This can also be a nice creative stitch. When stopping the ladders you need to push the needle forward into working position this will create a hole at the top of the ladder, if you do not wish for a hole then you need to pick up the stitch under the next door stitch and put in on the needle closing the hole.