I first fell in love with flat bed knitting machines when I was very young and I saw firsthand the creations that my mother used to churn out every weekend.
She would easily knit two or three jerseys up in an afternoon. We never had to buy school jerseys, jackets, or even normal jerseys as she made it all for us on her flat bed knitting machine.
Unfortunately, the flat bed knitting machines of yesteryear have lost some of their popularity and some have even gone out of business, but you can still pick up a machine online, or in a sewing shop. However, purchasing online is normally the cheaper route to go.
Just like hand knitting, there are so many different patterns you can make on the machine, including lace and cable stitch.
A flatbed knitting machine employs straight needle beds carrying independently operated needles, which are usually of the latch type.
Is A Flatbed Knitting Machine Better Than A Circular Knitting Machine?
Well, this all depends on what you enjoy knitting. If you want to make high fashion items then the flatbed is for you, however, if you just want to knit simpler items like beanies, scarves, or socks, then the circular is fine. The circular knitting machine can make sweaters too, but the styling of these is limited.
There are two different types of flatbed knitting machines. The other one is a V bed knitting machine that has two rib-gated, diagonally-approaching needle beds. The needle beds are set at between 90 and 104 degrees to each other. It is employed to give an inverted V-shape pattern. I battled to find any of these types for sale online. The function of the second needle bed is to make the process of ribbing easier.
Flat Bed Knitting Machines For Sale
Here are some flat bed knitting machines that I found online. Click on the links or on the pictures to find out more about the machine. These are affiliate links, which means that if you do decide to purchase anything on this page, I get a small commission. This helps me to keep this website going.
Knitting Machine, LK150 6.5mm Mid Gauge 150 Stitches Portable Plastic Domestic Smart Weaving Loom Set with Accessories for Sock Hat Scarf, Hand Sweater Knitting Machine Kit for Kids and Adults
This machine is made of high-quality plastic, which makes it lightweight, and easy to carry, unlike the older metal models. The 150 needles are roller-capped latch needles which ensure smooth and quiet operation.
The machine uses most hand knitting yarn types and you can make anything you desire on this little machine. It works better with thicker yarns.
It is so easy to use, that your child can enjoy the machine with you.
The machine comes with a crochet hook, 2 clamps, a wireframe tool, a row counter, a tappet base, a tappet, a transfer tool, 3 knitting boards, 2 needle pushers, a stitching needle, and more.
The product dimensions are 42.52 x 7.87 x 3.74 inches.
This machine is made by Silver Reed.
You will need a table with a lip to attach the machine to.
If you are looking for a slightly cheaper flat bed knitting machine, you may want to look at the Incredible Sweater Machine.
