I took the time to set up a knitting machine to familiarize myself with its function and features. Now that I can knit by hand, using a knitting machine is so much easier than the first time that I used a knitting machine. I know now and can recognize stitches that may have dropped, tension issues, and how to change colors. I am excited about the possibilities because I have a large supply of all different types and colors of yarn. Having a machine to cut down on my time means that I can tackle more advanced projects that involve a lot of yarn and time.
I started off using a ball of brown worsted weight yarn that I had handy just so that I could practice making a large swatch. The process was so easy and went so quickly that I kept going. I eventually stopped though because I didn't want a plain brown scarf and it is summer time right now.
After I assembled the machine following the instructions, I had to clamp it to a flat surface with a square end. I had to add a board to the top of a small table that I wanted to use so that the machine would be level and sturdy.
My other knitting machine has a tension hook mechanism. This machine does not have that external hook wand which makes it easier to maintain proper tension.
The instructions require only working on 50 needles. I had to add a "hem" and some elastic thread to the needles to start off. The hem has some metal rods inserted in some vinyl that keeps tension on the working fabric.
This is my first knitted row. The black vinyl piece is the hem and the white that you can see in between the brown yarn is elastic thread that is connected to two clothes pins on the side.
The hem is placed on the needles first, then the elastic thread, then you start knitting by sliding the carriage over the needles in the working position.
I added some yellow waste yarn at the end, so that I could easily pick up the stitches and bind them off without having to do it on the machine.
I discovered that I dropped two stitches on the right end, but I know how to pick them up now. I am not sure what I am going to do with this sample swatch yet. I'll figure something out.
I am excited about the possibilities once I go through all of the last steps. I need to pick up my stitches and bind off the top and bottom of the sample.
Have a wonderful day!