WoollyBeeKnits

Because historically, mechanical knitting machines were referred to as knitting looms (in fact historically, all mechanical machines producing fabric were called looms). However today, we distinguish looms separately from knitting machines.

Congrats!! That’s an achievement!!

I can’t wait to see photos of yours too!!

Yes, it’s the Girlfriend Cardigan! I already purchased some fingering weight to knit again on one of my standard beds when we arrive in Mammoth Lakes come January. I want a lighter weight one for spring too. I’m thinking a bit of FairIsle at the hem and cuffs next time.

Definitely more oversized than expected, but wonderfully warm cardigan, perfect for snowy days in Mammoth Lakes, CA. Super quick knit by Lauren Riker on the LK150 using Blue Sky Woolstok. Will knit 2 sizes smaller next time (38)

#girlyknits
#blueskyfiber
#machineknitting
#knittingmachine
#LK150

Traveling in a motorhome means there’s no room for knitting tables, so I bring a knitting machine stand. However, I always struggle with the tools and accessories I need. Rick and I took a trip to the local Ace Hardware in Truckee. Check out my new shelf!

#machineknitting
#knittingmachine
🧶

Absolutely stunning! Love the fall colors. Did you use 2 variegated colors? I see color shifts; are they from top to bottom as well as bottom up?

It is hand spun rather than a commercial 4-plied tightly spun yarn. It’s only 2-plied, but not loose spun either. Definitely more drape.

It grew and became very limp while wet, like working with alpaca. The blooming and shrinking occurred as it was drying. It still has a very nice drape, so the row and stitch gauge may change a bit when knitted into an entire garment with the weight of the fabric.

While wet it grew a LOT, but after drying it somehow bloomed and shrank from the original stitches and rows off my machine. I’ve never had a wool bloom AND shrink. It is so wonderfully soft to the skin after blocking, though! I’m going back to get more so I have enough for a sweater.

It is my first time working with it, and I must admit it is really giving me some difficulty with gauge. What comes off the machine and what measures after blocking are so much different than Merino, Shetland or Corriedale. The amount of change is quite drastic, not bad, just different. But so soft!

Beautiful! Excellent color choices!

It’s autumn in Truckee, CA! (A beautiful mountain town in the North Lake Tahoe region.) We’re here for 5 weeks, so I can unpack both knitting machines!

Headed to a local farmers’ market, and look what I found…local Rambouillet!! Maybe a squishy cowl?

#knittingmachine
#machineknitting
#yarn
#🧶

On the Silver Reed manufactured machines (Studio, Singer, KnitMaster) there is a special carriage. The jacquard punch cards, because of complexity with color changes within each row, can run 6’ long. I’ve even seen one 12’ long. Ideally, you’d have a color changer attached to your machine as well!