What kind of knitting machine should I buy?
For beginners, it is usually recommended to buy a knitting machine with a so-called single bed. Later, you can add a double bed to expand the knitting machine. If you are not very experienced or are unsure which model to choose, you can gain some initial experience in special knitting courses or try it out in specialist shops. The websites of various manufacturers provide detailed information about operation, technology and many options for producing knitted goods. To start with, a knitting machine with easy operation is recommended. Start with single bed knitting and if that works well, expand to the double bed version.
Coarse, medium and fine knitters – what does that mean?
A distinction is made between a coarse, medium and fine knitter, as not every knitting machine can process every yarn. The knitter you choose depends on the yarn thickness. The type then determines how many needles there are and how large the distances between the needles are. A coarse knitter is the easier choice for complete beginners, as the needles are, for example, 9mm apart. Because the coarse knitter has fewer needles, the manufacturing process is clearer and therefore easier to understand whether mistakes have been made. These coarse knitters are basically single-bed knitting machines, but can be expanded to include a double addition. The needles are also more beginner-friendly and more robust.
The name "coarse knitter" is logically explained by the fact that the coarse knitter produces quite coarse knitting work, as he can only work with thick yarns. There is a so-called principle that you should know:
If a yarn requires less than 20 stitches to knit 10cm, then the yarn is suitable for the chunky knitter. If more than 20 stitches are needed, then you should double it. A medium knitter has a needle spacing of 7mm and a fine knitter has a needle spacing of 5mm.
There is also a super fine knitter for professionals.
Here you can see a mohair/silk scarf in jacquard technique, made with a knitting machine from Isabelle:
You have to find out for yourself whether you like machine knitting. Everyone has to decide for themselves whether they prefer to knit by hand, with a machine or both. Try it out, don't give up straight away, have fun!
