Here are links to all of the beginner lessons:
Getting Started: Threading the Machine, Preparing the Yarn
Lesson 1: Open Cast On
Lesson 2: E-Wrap Cast On
Lesson 3: Diana's Cast On
Lesson 4: Latch Tool Cast On
Lesson 5: Plain Hem
Lesson 6: Mock Rib Hem
Lesson 7: Picot Hem
Lesson 8: Shortcut Picot Hem
Lesson 9: Latch Tool Bind Off
Lesson 10: Tapestry Needle Bind Off #1
Lesson 11: Tapestry Needle Bind Off #2
Lesson 12: Loop-Through-A-Loop Bind Off
Lesson 13: Crocheting to Cast Off
Lesson 14: Transfer Tool Bind Off, Chain Edge
Lesson 15: Transfer Tool Bind Off, Holey Edge
Lesson 16: Increase and Decrease
Lesson 17: Short Row Toe Shape
Lesson 18: Short Row Shoulder #1
Lesson 19: Short Row Shoulder #2
Lesson 20: Short Rowing a Dart
Lesson 21: Carriage Jams, Ripping Out, Dropped Stitches
Lesson 22: Kitchener Stitch Seams
Lesson 23: Mattress Stitch Seams
Lesson 24: Method One Shoulder Join
Lesson 25: Joining Shoulder, Method 2
Lesson 26: Idiot Cord
Lesson 27: Latched Ribbing
Lesson 28: Gauge Swatch
Lesson 29, Part 1 of 2: Divide and Knit Neckline
Lesson 29, Part 2: Divide and Knit Neckline
Bless you for making these videos, I just bought a knitting machine and was desperate to find any help in learning how to use it. Your videos and instructions are clear, easy to follow. I can't even begin to express how grateful I am for what you've done.
ReplyDeleteYour lessons are so very helpful. I was really struggling with the manual. I am now attempting to do a a tuck stitch (on a brother 930 electronic machine) sweater with a V neckline. I was able to do the back and sleeves easily. Where I fall in a mess is when I get to the V neck on the front. How do I get the pattern to go right on the left side of the neck when I get to those stitches after doing the right side. I have reread the manual several times and it really doesn't explain it very well other than to turn the memory on. When I go to the left side of the v neck the pattern is all out of allignment. I know I must be missing an easy step but I'm getting really frustrated trying to figure it out. Please help. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteTry this procedure: At the place to begin shaping the neck, press the M key.
ReplyDeleteTake ALL the knitting off on waste yarn. This way, there are no dirty marks on your sweater.
Rehang one side. Have only the needles for the side you're knitting first in B position.
Carriage outside turn mark, set to select needles, press M key. Part buttons in. Push carriage across. Put in tuck buttons and knit first side of neck.
After that's finished, rehang second side of neck, carriage outside turn mark, M key, part buttons, 1 row, then tuck buttons and knit second side of neck.
If this drives you crazy, consider a cut-and-sew neck - a lot of people like to do that instead.
Good luck. Email me, keep me posted. diana_knits *at* sbcglobal.net.
Diana
Thank you, thank you for making these videos!!!
ReplyDeleteI own a Kitking Compunit III which has been stored for too many years. Need to give it a good cleaning (it was set up and covered for a few years) and lubricating. The rubber part under the needles has disintegrated. I don't dare even cast on it (which thanks to you I know remember how to do!) before getting it in shape. Therefore I have no idea if the electronics still function. I no longer have the Manual and have looked on line for days, but have not found one.
Would you happen to have a class/video on how to set up the machine, how to clean it,change needles, or any such thing?
Can you give me any advice, please?
(My husband says I havent done in so many years I should quit while I'm ahead...)
Thank you so much for all your work on behalf of machine knitters I think it is wonderful!
Yoly Gottlieb
In Conroe, Texas)
allmyexs@hotmail.com
Start by replacing the sponge bar. You can order one by mail or you can rebuild the sponge bar. There's a set of detailed instructions over at Knitssings.com.
ReplyDeleteVaccuum and brush the machine in the direction of the needles next.
Compuknit III is the same as Brother 940. I have a .pdf of the 930 manual, which operates nearly identically, if you will email me at diana_knits "at" sbcglobal "dot" net.
The oil that came with the machine is fine for lubricating it, or a light sewing machine oil. Oil along the needle bed lightly and oil the moving parts on the underside of the carriage. Put the needles in B and run a few rows without yarn to loosen things up, then wipe off excess oil.
hi diana i have just find my moms old knit machine and would love to lean to use it,its a knitmaster 260,but you use a brother machine can i still lean by watchin your videos? thanks for any help you can give me.
ReplyDeletehi daina can you buy any of these videos on dvd?
ReplyDeleteThe beginner lessons are not available on DVD at this time. I need to re-film them for that purpose - all my DVDs are hi-def.
ReplyDeleteIf you have a Knitmaster 260, you'll need to learn the open cast-on from the book and learn to use the I II levers and the russell levers. Otherwise, almost everything else can be learned from the videos - the difference is simply with the controls.
Hi Diana, i'm so desperate i bought a second hand knitmaster 560 but i cant understand the manual where can i get good practical help to learn what this machine can do? many thanks sheila.
ReplyDeleteHey, Sheila, check out the ravel cord cast-on video I just put up. That's a good cast on for your Knitmaster. After that, you should be able to follow most of the beginner course videos. One machine isn't all that different from the next, as long as you thread it according to the manual.
ReplyDeleteThere are still Silver Reed dealers. Dealers will happily give lessons on machines they didn't sell, and some of them have classes and knit clubs. There are also knit clubs that are all volunteer, like ours. In addition, you might be able to run a Craig's List ad for other knitters or even a teacher and find someone near you. A lot of folks are having hard times financially right now and would be blessed to have the opportunity to teach some lessons for pay.
Hi Diane,
ReplyDeleteI have purchased three different type Brother knitting machines. Your You Tube videos are a GREAT help. However I was wondering if you have your lessons on any CD's. I watch on the computer and by the time I get into my craft room I have forgotten what to set the machine on. Then I have to go back and bring it up on the computer. It would be great if I had a CD to play by my knitting machine. My question is do you have any CD's to purchase?
Email me at diana_knits "at" sbcglobal "dot" net. we can work something out about CDs. I never marketed the original beginner lessons because they were on an ordinary camcorder and are grainy and noisy in places. The quality isn't professional and I haven't had time to re-film them all. Still, I would like to do that because hundreds of people are using them in their little YouTube version to learn to knit...they were obviously needed.
ReplyDeleteNow I know more about what I'm doing (I'm an accountant and rather shy, not a filmmaker!) and now I use a hi-def camcorder and fancier editing software and my videos for sale are all done that way. They're still goofy and full of clumsiness, but I figure that if I can knit, anybody can learn!
Diana, you are wonderful! I all your lessons! I just wish I had more time to dedicate myself to knitting projects! For me, It is much easier to see than to read since English is not my first language. This videos are great!
ReplyDeleteDiana,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the wonderful videos! I'm trying to thread up my Singer 360k but I dont know how to insert the yarn in the carriage, as it's a different type of machine than the ones in the video. Do you know how it might work?
Thank you,
Victoria
Oftentimes the Singer machines require a tug to the right to get the yarn back behind a little piece. I played with a Singer 321 recently and found it quite difficult to thread, but tugging to the right worked.
ReplyDeleteYou might try using a needle to feed the yarn into the feeder. Do you have a machine manual?
Maybe a Singer 360 owner could help?
HI Diana, the question from victoria is answered differently as the Singer sinker plate changed later.
ReplyDeleteThere is now a gate post which you open by moving the little metal lever to the left and close by moving it to the right.
I have KM for years, mostly on Singers, but I have a brother which I bought to use the garter carriage. I hope to be able to align it's ribber properly one day when I have lots of time and patience, as I thought this would be ideal for socks as well.
I keep seeing references to your site from the Ravelry groups.
I visited ages ago and was impressed but only just had another look. Well done with how much more you have added.
I do audits of wages, so am in a similar field, coincidence?
EC
Thanks. I hope the Singer person read your note.
ReplyDeleteLots of accountants like to knit. Just talked with my friend who is the chairman-elect of the TSCPA - she has taken up knitting for all the travel.
Hello Diana,
ReplyDeleteI am new to machine knitting and I purchased the SilverReed SK160 along with "The Treasury of Machine Knitting Stitches". I am lost; I look at the charts in the book and don't have a clue as to what to do at the machine. Does every black dot/square indicate that the corresponding needle should be in D position(not worked)? Please direct me to any form of instructions that will walk me through reading the chart and what I should do at the machine. I've searched the web for two weeks and can't find any step by step help.
That's a manual mid-gauge, right? Could you send me a photo or two of the machine?
ReplyDeleteI need to look at the manual and see how it manages fair isle. Generally, yes, the black dots are needles you need to select to upper working position, but since I don't have that exact machine, I better find out more.
I can be emailed at diana_knits@sbcglobal.net.
Hello Diana,
ReplyDeleteHow i admire passionate people like you, thank you so much for your videos. I just purchased the enchanted edges and i'm looking forward to working with it. I have a question for you:
Every time i knit a blanket (double bed) on my standard gauge Brother machine i get wobbely or wavey (probably not correct English) sides. I have tried a lot of things steaming, blocking and all kinds of hems but nothing seems to work what am I doing wrong?
Greetings from the Netherlands
Daphna,
ReplyDeleteRibbing does tend to be wriggly on the sides, but here are a few ideas -
Make sure the end needles knit every row. If any stitches on the main bed are tuck stitches, have the end needles on the ribber.
Try having a couple of end needles out of pattern, not just one.
Don't leave any weights on it when you're not knitting.
Try a firmer yarn or a tighter tension.
I was given a Brother KH940 with the ribber, the knit leader, the lace carriage, and all the instruction books over a year ago and have attempted to learn how to cast on and plain knit several times according to the book, but having used a Singer 700 for years, I have a great deal of frustration in trying to learn the Brother. Having found your videos on U-tube, I am now a much more relaxed and happier machine knitter being able at last to use both machines. I really would like to have the videos though instead of having to run back and forth to the computer to see how to do something. Your instructions are extremely easy and user friendly. How can I get the disks in order to watch them on my DVD or VCR player?
ReplyDeleteKeep up the good work.....
kraftylady@gmail.com
Thank you so much for making these video's! You make machine knitting look so easy. I am no longer scared of trying out my new machine:) Any chance you might make a video on how to use a punchcard and read a control card someday?
ReplyDeleteThese videos are perfect! I inherited my let Nanna's machine last year and have been utterly frustrated by my ignorance, but your videos have inspired me to stop giving up and blaming the machine, and to star using all the weird and wonderful tools and gizmos! I can't wait to actually make something! Thank you so much. :D
ReplyDeleteHello and thank you for all your wonderful videos!!!
ReplyDeleteI was wondering if you have any videos on bands and buttonholes. I did your child's v-neck sweater and it really helped me get through it. It turned out great.
I would love to try a cardigan but I am hesitant because of the band and the buttonholes. I do not use a ribber yet.
Thanks!
I also want to take this opportunity to say thank you for your excellent videos. Approximately 2 yrs. ago I decided to learn machine knitting. My first purchase was thru Ebay with a Bond machine. After the Bond experience I almost gave up the attempt. After sometime I purchased a Studio 560 Electronic; a Brother KX-260E and a hobby knitter--the Brother Convertible KX-390 Home Knitter. I have made mostly shawls and scarves with either the Brother KX260E, or the Brother Convertible KX-390 Hobby Knitter.The Studio 560 has not seen any action yet. Now I am at a point where I want to get a return on the investment I have made. The Brother Convertible was a real deal. I purchased it from the UK for less than $50 USD. When it arrived it was rather dirty, so I set it on the back porch for over 1 yr., but last year I got it out, removed the crumbling sponge bar, cleaned it, oiled it, took out each needle and soaked them to get the grunge off of them, and it has done a good job. But the truth is that doing sweaters overwhelms me, and I have not been able to complete not one. It is a blessing that I have discovered your videos, for I was almost at a point of "throwing in the towel" on ever becoming accomplished in machine knitting. Helen
ReplyDeleteThanks for your kind words. Sounds like you have become a bit of a collector! Keep an eye on the blog as I work through using a Knit Leader or Knit Radar.
ReplyDeleteDo you have any video's on using the punchcard?
ReplyDeleteI am brand new and I have tried several times to set the Brother 860 up and it just does't make the pattern. The card is turning like it should be no design is being produced. Any suggestions?
Thanks Pam
No videos specifically about punch cards.
ReplyDeletePam, make sure your carriage is set to KC or KCII. Then it'll select needles.
hai Diana I am very surprise to see your knitting lesson videos infact you are doing a greate job for the people/humen being who wants to help themselves. Mam I have Knitting Machine Knitmaster MK70 Mid Gauge but do not have its Operation Mannual and design Cards. Could you help me for managing the both items. Thanks
ReplyDeleteI have an MK-70, too! You should join the MK-70 yahoo group. They have the resources you need.
ReplyDeleteThe punch cards are a little scarce, but obtainable. I'd put a request on the MK-70 list and a request on the Knitting for Sale list. The manual is probably in the files. That list also has instructions for making homemade punch cards. The MK-70 uses unusual 18-stitch punch cards.
How or where does one join the MK70 group,I would be very interested ,also interested in 18 st punch cards
DeleteHi Diana,
ReplyDeleteWow I think you are a knitting goddess! I just found a Singer Memo-matic 700 I'm and I don't know how to use it! It is in very good condition. It did not come with any manuals so I am totally lost. I gather from some of your info. That I need to repair the sponge bar. I hope to find more help in your videos. And any other help would be SOOO appreciated.
Thanks.
Ann
Ask93@yahoo.com
Hi Diana,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to know the youtube tutorials you have made will they be appropriate for an Old Jones Knitting machine my dad gave me which has a push button Pattern Center in it?
Many thanks
liz
Hi There, Diana. Wow. Having I been looking for someone that knows about using a Brother CB-1 Stitch Leader, KH-970. Find Bed.I have googled for yrs, and have found nothing, until today. Yesss. I have had this knitting machine for awhile. I bought it new.But boy I have found it so confusing trying to understand, figuring out how to use this electronic machine. I have acouple of brother bulky machines--one is a punch card. And I can knit with them. But this Stitch Leader KH-970 is driving me to insanity-ha. I found the one video -Enchanted Edging. I thought I hit the jackpot.Do you have any videos on how to understand working with this machine. I so want to knit with the KH-970. I would so love for you to help me and maybe others who are looking for help. I would very much appreciate your help. THANK YOU, pearlwhalen@yahoo.ca
ReplyDeleteHi, I'll take that under advisement - that some more 970 videos would be helpful.
ReplyDeleteCharlene Shafer has a booklet on the 970 that I found helpful. Also, there's some instructions at one of the dealer sites that were helpful, too. Maybe I'll do a blog post linking some of these resources.
Hi Diana, I am hopeing to buy a Brother KH 950 somethime this year. Can I use Double knitting wool on this machine if not which is the best thickness of wool is best for the machine in question. My grandchildren want me to knit them a xmas jumper for this xmas, but i can not hand knit any more due to the start of arthritus. Hope you can help. Thank you Lynn.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on the Brother 950, Lynn. It's a wonderful machine.
ReplyDeleteDK is a bit too heavy for the machine. You can coax it to knit DK by using every other needle and getting the weights, wax, tension, and upper tension perfect, but it's difficult.
You'll have a happier experience with fingering yarn. Cones of thinner yarn are really the easiest way to begin, and you won't have the yarn to worry about.
Hi Diana, Thank you so much for the information on the wool thickness, so is 4 ply better? also if I have a chart of a motif can I put it onto the Mylar card as it is on the chart? I have not used a Mylar card before, well I have not used an Electric machine before so please excuse the ignorance, as I am not very good at reading instructions. I learn by watching normally. I will have alot of questions for you, hope you dont mind. maybe I will just ask a couple for now instead of confusing you with all the ones I need to ask you.
DeleteHello Diana,
ReplyDeleteI just purchased a brother kh 965, for some reason I can not find a video on how to use the patterns from the book , and program the patterns to knit them the right way. Working from the manual is not very clear to me.
Is this in one of your beginners video's?
ps. Great site you have :-)))
Blessings
I just had to chime in, I found your videos about 2 weeks and was avidly devouring them in my wait for me new machine, an old 1959 SK-8 SilverReed.
ReplyDeleteStandard gauge. After finally getting it home I have been happily obsessing over it.
Your lessons have been a real joy, I am in love with my new beauty. After a simple clean and oil she just sings, and thanks to your first lesson I was able to figure out the proper configuration of the tension mast.
Thank you.
Michelle
Hi Diana,
ReplyDeleteI love You ... :)
I just have a knitting machine KH 820 and I'd glad when I have your lessons.
I have seen your lesson : increase and Decrease one stitch.
Could you help me about decrease 2 stitches (to right or left on right side) as hand-knitting?
I am really a newbie in knitting machine, so I need your explain about stitches very much.
Thank you so much.
Have a nice day... :)
hi Dinana,
ReplyDeleteMany thanks to the beginners lesson.I have recived a beautify gift(Singer 321-memometric ) from my neighbour. she has showed me how to set up but I was not able to learn really how to use it. I have found your videos today and I am so excited to start stright-way from lesson 1. I have made 1 to 5 lesson sample today. I am so happy that I have found your videos. Thanks a lot :)
hemaa - Australia
Say, Hemaa, this is exactly the best way to use the lessons! Knit them up as samples. Lucky you, a free knitting machine! The Singer 321 is a very sturdy and serviceable machine. Make sure you have a good sponge bar, oil it, and check that the needles and gate pegs are straight. You're on your way.
ReplyDeleteHi Diana,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your encouraging prompt reply.I will do as you have adviced.
I feel like I am having best teacher in the word.I love your voice.Thanks again for taking time to reply.
Much appreciate.
Hemaa-Australia.
Your website is a gold mine. I have my silver reed sk840 for over a year and was pretty hard to know how to start my first project. THANK YOU !!
ReplyDeleteHi Diana, I have just come across your website by luck, I 'm hoping to get a secondhand machine at the weekend. I will be definitely be following your lessons. Many thanks. Suzie
ReplyDeleteHi Diana, your videos are simply wonderful! I recently purchased a Silver Reed SK155 (I had to import it from the UK as new knitting machines are just not available anymore in South Africa, having been very popular in the 1980s). I've done quite a few samples, and this weekend managed my first projects - two beanies! Very exciting. Do you have a suggestion for a next project that will take me a step further, but not one so difficult that I get discouraged? Once again, thanks for your fabulous lessons - they have been a huge help!
ReplyDeleteThere's a V-neck sweater for kids right after the beginner lessons, with a written pattern on the blog, that you could make.
ReplyDeleteThere are also a lot of small items - slippers, blankets, etc., on the blog.
Thank you Diana! I have been trying your two-part slippers. My third attempt is looking good, although the kitchener stitching is proving to be a little bit of a challenge......
ReplyDeleteHi Diana,
ReplyDeleteYour videos are great. Thank you so much for making this so freely available.
I recently acquired a Singer 321 memomatic. It is my first knitting machine. I have cleaned it up and have refurbished the sponge bar. I can do an open cast on following the instructions in the manual, but am having trouble doing a closed cast on. With this machine there are two sets of levers on the carriage that need to have their position changed after doing several cast on rows when doing an open cast on. The open cast on instructions in the manual call for using the ravel cord as part of the second cast on row. Do you have any ideas about how I can adapt your closed cast-on instructions to my machine please? So far my experiments haven't worked.
Thanks, Karen, Sydney, Australia.
Hi Dianna,
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for sharing your knowledge and expertise with us 'knitters'.
I am new to machine knitting and would like to know if you have got any video on how to shape a garment, how to make them, like dress or top?
Many thanks in advance for your reply. :-)
I have lots of really good beginner projects in the Goldilocks Challenge book.
ReplyDeleteA very good beginner project is the V-neck raglan for beginners, here http://diananatters.blogspot.com/2009/08/beginner-project-videos-so-far.html
There are written patterns on this blog and free YouTube videos for the whole process.
hi dianna since moving house i have mislaid all cds for my Brother 965 Electronic and finding it very hard to remember all about entering my patterns. can you give me any help please. do you have any easy cd or video instructions for the Designaknit 8
DeleteThanks so much for this selection of videos! I have just taken posession of my parents' old brother knitting machines and was wondering where to start!! I want to knit for charity - little sweaters and blankets for underprivileged children. I think following your videos and advice I may be able to make progress. Many thanks again! Jane xx
ReplyDeletehello diana first let me thank you for doing the video,s i have just retierd and i find it dificult to knit by hand now so i have bought a silver reed sk 280 with ribber apart from useing difarent levers every thing else seems the same i have knit one of your jumpers for my grandaughter but i would like a pattern for a cardegon my grandchildren are age 7 and nine i have looked on line in the old mags but i do not understand when it says follow the diagram so can not use these patterns have you got eny idea were i can get easy pattern from i am from england there is no knitting clubs any were near me so i have to teach my self thank you val
ReplyDeleteNo, I currently don't have any books or videos about DAK 8.
ReplyDeleteHello Diana! Thanks so much for posting your very informative/helpful video lessons. I recently purchased a Bond USM and have finally gotten to a point where I can use it with ease, thanks in large part to your videos. My question for you is this: in your video, you use a credit card needle latch opener and I would like to know how to make one for myself. Where can I find instructions to do so? ~HB
ReplyDeleteTake an old credit card or other plastic card and cut a triangle off the end. Start in a corner at the bottom right side, then cut diagonally toward the other side, aiming at the middle of the other long side. You cut off a triangle.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much :)
DeleteI would love to learn cut & sew for necklines all your videos have been a life line since i started knitting (brother 965) are you planning one on cut & sew necklines.. or do you already have one? Catherine
ReplyDeleteHi Diana.
ReplyDeletei am trying to use my knitleader with the brother chunky 260.. i knit a swat 60 rows 40 stiches but the 40 stitches measures 22cm and the stich rulers only go to 190. can you tell me how i am supposed to work out how many stiches to use. i have learned everything i now know by watching your vidios and practicing please keep up the good work.. and it would be great if you had a vidio on knitleaders. if you already have how can i buy it?
Ann
With the bulky 260, you measure 20 stitches and 30 rows - half as many! Do that and you'll have a stitch ruler that works.
ReplyDeleteGreat idea - I'll put cut and sew necklines on my idea list.
ReplyDeletehi Diana ..great instructions...how do you weave in the tails when doing stripes and changing colors..I am using a Brother KH 260...thanks...
ReplyDeleteAfter I sew the garment together, I sew the ends in and out of the seam allowances.
ReplyDeleteI prefer not to weave ends into the part of the knitting that shows.
Olá Diana ! Sou cirurgiã dentista aposentada , e comprei uma máquina de trico , brother 840. Não intendo quase nada de ingles, mas fico grudada na tela e não perco nenhum de seus movimentos . Quero tentar comprar alguns de seus vÃdeos, mas primeiro tenho q saber como fazer isto. Gosto muito de roupas de crianças . Tenho 5 netos . Sou sua fã ... Que Deus Continue te iluminando . Não quero te perder de vista . Abraços from Brasil!
ReplyDeleteThese lessons are a gold mine. I thank you so very much for making them because they helped me alot. I have no words to express my grattitude but THANK YOU DIANA!
ReplyDeleteHi. I just made my first blanket on The LK 100 but I cannot get the worm edging to work for me. Is there another simpler way to make an edge? This is my first attempt at using a knitting machine,so I need something super duper simple. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteIf you crochet, you could crochet an edging.
ReplyDeleteI have a video on worm edging, here, on the last of these baby blanket videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVp0qM1Qsck
Hi! I picked up a Silver Reed SK-6, never used, but no manual. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Suedewane@aol.com
ReplyDeleteHi Diana
ReplyDeleteI have just inherited a Brother KH-836 knitting machine. I have watched your videos and you make it look very easy - thank you. However when I try to start (following your tutorial) I find that the K Carriage changes from NL to KC and the needles change from position B to D automatically. I am finding this very frustrating as it seems to prevent me casting on. Any help or advice would be gratefully received.
In the event you look here for an answer, I'd say either your carriage is not seated properly. Slide it all the way off the bed and back on again, making sure it's all the way down. Put the change knot on NL and see if it's good again.
ReplyDeleteIt's much better to email me at the link on the left-hand margin of the page. THEN you'll see my answers, for certain.
Hi Diana
ReplyDeleteYour videos are a godsend to people like me who have returned to machine knitting after a long absence and have forgotten so much. Is there any possibility of your doing one on using the PPD
Many thanks
Nita
Hi Diana, I'm so glad you have given us the chance to re-learn our knitting machines. Mine (Studio SK700) has been in storage for over 20 yrs. The only thing I remembered was how to e-cast on! Your videos are a wonderful refresher course. I just wish I hadn't gotten rid of all my pattern books and such. Even so, it's wonderful to have your videos as a resource and that you have been so generous to give them to us at no cost. I was going to subscribe to another website, but I don't think I need to now. :-)
ReplyDeleteTHANK YOU SO MUCH!
Hi Diana, I just found your videos tonight; they are awesome! My mom has a PASSAP VARIO machine and she has missplaced her manual during a move. She has always done her casting on by knitting a few rows by hand and then attaching to the needles. Now she wants to cast on directly onto the machine, but she cannot remember the procedure. Will your procedure work for her machine? Thank you very much.
ReplyDeleteI don't know. I don't have a Vario to play around on. I've seen them, but they're fairly rare.
DeleteHi Diana, I just bought an LK150 silver reed used and after searching on the internet found a great resource for putting it together and setting it up on the stand. I was wondering how to proceed when I found your videos. I'm starting tonight from the beginning and plan to make a sample for each lesson as you recommended. I'm sooooo excited. Thank you so much for taking the time to post these in a practical lesson plan format. I also ordered your dvd's and will work thru the lessons on those when they come.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for being such a great resource
Robyn
Hi Diana , Have a question about the brother 950 lace carriage having difficulties trying to use it.I am not understanding the instructions i guess. is there a video on how to use this electronic lace carriage for the brother machine?
ReplyDeleteI have done just a few lace carriage videos. Put my name in YouTube along with lace and see what pops. The 950 carriage is just about like the ones I use.
DeleteI have a vintage brother knitting machine KH820. It is in good condition and never been used. Can you tell me where I can sell it? My email address is sushiegirl@yahoo.com. Thanks
ReplyDeleteHi Diana,
ReplyDeleteMy name is Asha, I just got brother kh970 and trying to a sample using pattern no 20 from stitch world book 3. It knits the pattern but it is not showing any design on it. Can you help me with this?
Thank You
Asha
Asha, I can't really picture the problem. Does it select needles? I am not very good at mechanical problems...never trained in repair at all.
DeleteCan anyone here help Asha with this issue?
Diana we ere in South Africa appreciate someone like you. thank you for your videos.
ReplyDeleteجيد جداٌ
ReplyDeletemeryem@beysanmak.com
Diana, I have relied on your videos so very much so far in learning my Singer 360 KM. So far so good. I also have the lace carriage for this machine. No ribber just yet, but working on that. I have yet to test my knit contour, which is build into this machine. Is there a video in your collection that I have missed that shows, step by step, how to use this feature? This would include settings and inserting the pattern together with how to use patterns. I sure would appreciate any help you could offer. Thanks in advance. Sue Emerick/Mpls, MN
ReplyDeleteNo, I don't have a Studio with a half-size knit contour to film on. I had one for a little while, but don't have one today. It's rather old technology, but so is the full-size Knitleader, and I filmed a bunch of lessons on that.
DeleteI'm actually a pretty big fan of the knit contour, but you need the special patterns that are half-sized. The reason I tend to teach on the KL is you can use sewing patterns sized for knits.
Thank you very much
ReplyDeletemy machine sk 280 is this lessons help me?
I'm confused with the standard bed garment - wouldn't a bulky, 5, yarn weight be too heavy for a standard 4.5 mm single bed machine?
ReplyDeleteDiana, I have a Bond USM and I am trying to knit the fair Isle vest (lesson #9) for my granddaughter. I cannot figure out how to work the neckline after I bind off the front side. Thank you so much for all of your help and for all you do for the machine knitters around the world! What a wonderful person you are!! Ann
ReplyDeleteDiana, thank you for generously taking the time to teach others. I recently retired and am not aware of a machine knitting group in the Memphis TN area. Less than a month ago, I purchased a Studio Standard gauge punchcard machine. Your blog, videos and DVDs are a godsend for me.
ReplyDeleteHi Diana - I own several of your DVD's (Beginner's, Garter Bar, Ribber Scarves) and am following the directions on my Studio SK-155 bulky with ribber. I'm having trouble translating some of the Brother controls into comparable ones on the Studio. For example, when you say press the left Part button, where is this on the Studio? Is there a "Rosetta Stone" or chart that translates the terms for the various machines? Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHi Diana, your videos are a blessing!!! :) I pulled out my Brother 940 and my Passap this month only to realize that I've forgotten a lot about them. However, with your help, I'm back on track.... however. My 940 seems to want to knit a line through out all the patterns. Fairisle, tuck stitch, wherever I need a pattern going, it seems to knit in a single stitch that's not suppose to be there. It pops up consistently, but in different spots. Do you have any idea what's causing this? I'm scared to reset the memory. Any help would be most appreciated, thanks :) Athena
ReplyDeleteAthenna, I don't know what would cause a 940 to mis-pattern in that way. If it has a good needle and a good sponge bar and it patterns in other places on the bed okay, then the thing to do is get a repair person to look at it. I recommend Harold at the Knit Knack Shop, and there are several other guys who do a great job.
ReplyDeleteHi Diana. I recently inherited three knitting machines from my Grandmother and Aunt - a Passap Duomatic 80, an Empisal Mod 260 and an Empisal Chunky. I have been so daunted to use them but luckily I came across your videos on YouTube and they have helped such a lot. I decided to give the chunky machine a go and see if I could get that one working. I tried three different cast on methods - the weaving method in the manual, the cast on you demonstrate in video 3 and the e wrap method. For all three methods I manage to get the stiches onto the needles and hang the comb on but after that I can't come right. I try to knit my rows but the yarn just sits on top of the needles and doesn't catch onto the needles (if you understand what I mean) after moving the carriage back and forth. The stitches then don't knit at all and I'm just left with yarn lying there on top of all the needles. I've set all the dials and tensions to the recommended positions as per the manual and all the needles are in the working position B so I am lost as to what is going wrong. I would really love it if you could maybe help. I haven't been able to find anyone to help me in Cape Town South Africa as it seems no one knits by machine here. The ladies at the wool shops look at me as if I'm an alien from out of space when I ask if they know of anyone hahaha. I would love any help you can give me. Jessica :)
ReplyDeleteDid you replace the sponge bars on the Empisals? That's probably the problem. After that, cast on using the e-wrap method, but before knitting each row, make sure to bring the needles all the way out before each of the first five or six rows to help the yarn knit through.
DeleteI'm so grateful for your time and help. Do you think you would update these any time soon for a better more clearer video?
ReplyDeleteI've covered lesson one but lesson two is so difficult for me to visually see.
Thanks nonetheless for your time
Most of them are quite usable, but unfortunately, these were the first videos I ever did and I did not have the equipment I have now.
DeleteThese lessons are available in a high-definition version on DVDs.
Hi Diana, thanks for your videos, you've been my main teacher. I have an older empisal 820 (the same as a brother). I've been trying to use the punchcards, but hit a snag when the needles wouldn't select. I pulled apart the machine, cleaned and lubricated it. There is some improvement, but not all the needles are selecting. Using card #1 it only pushes forward 30% of the needles required, in a random assortment. Do you think it is a problem with the needle selector cards? In an older machine, would you expect them to catch?
ReplyDeleteI'm in Australia and there are no service persons in my area so I am doing this all using the service manual and am wracking my brains about this problem.
I spoke with Frank (the Answer Lady's husband), who does machine repairs. He said he would be willing to correspond with you about your question, because several things could be wrong, and I certainly don't know. Here's their website: http://www.theanswerlady.com/
DeleteThanks so much!! If it hadn't been for you I would have given up on using my machine!! The only thing I still can't figure out is how to do shaping while using a punchcard!! Do you work the shaping just like you would for plain knitting or are there special steps to shape while continuing patterning with a punchcard???? Thanks Again!!!!
ReplyDeleteHi diana,
ReplyDeleteHow is the work going? I love all your videos, they 've been of immense help to me.
I am a new knitter, using the manual knitting machine but I am planning to upgrade my self to the electronics knitting machine world. I don't know the best one to go for.
I need a machine that can knit lace, fair lsle, weave short row and knit with considerable speed and most importantly easy to understand, maybe a brother machine will do.
I will be very grateful if my question is answered.
Thanks.
Brother and Silver Reed electronic machines are both very, very good. Silver Reed is still in production, so that's a big advantage because you can purchase a perfectly working new machine. Brother, however, also had a gadget called the garter carriage that was wonderful, and was never made for the SR machines. So - very hard to choose, and as long as the machine is complete and working well, you can't go wrong.
DeleteHi, Diana, I learnt knitting last year but after practicing for a while I stopped cos I couldn't get any video that explains it so well like yours. Now I have to supply a school with cardigans and I have forgotten almost everything about knitting (couldn't say no to a prospective business) can you please help with measurement? Children especially from age 1 to 10? I will be glad if you can help. From kemi
ReplyDeleteIf you look at the website for the Yarn Council of America, they have size charts. That's what I use when I do patterns.
DeleteGood luck with your new commission work!
Thanks I got them! Series of them. Thanks alot.
ReplyDeleteHi Diana, it me again. Do you have a video that shows how to make a v neck? Would love to see that. Thanks. Kemi
ReplyDeleteYes, there's a V-neck raglan for kids that I go through in great detail. It's just after the beginner lessons on YouTube.
ReplyDeleteThanks, I got it! Really amazing.
ReplyDeleteKemi.
Hi, do you have a video about sleeve and length? Will love to see one cos I urgently need it. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHi Diana, do you have a video for sleeve? Would love to see that. Kemi
ReplyDeleteHi Diana, Would you have a formula for using the knitleader 116 for the Brother KX350? I see for 9mm you have put one up, just wondering whether you have any experience with the KX350? thank you!
ReplyDeleteUse it with the 350 like you would use it with a bulky. You will need to have the gauge strips for the bulky. You may need to advance it manually, and you may need (depending on the row gauge) to advance it twice for each row.
DeleteI have a Passap knitting machine I have had in the shed for several years. I would like someone to come out to me (I live in Salisbury North South Australia) and teach me how to use it.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know of someone who would do this, and how much they might charge for this?
Hi Diane, Love your website. I'm a hand knitter who just bought a Brothers 930 that has a working reader. I have the basic cast ons and such and did a flat knitting baby blanket no problem. But now I'm trying to learn how to use the patterning stuff, like tuck and slip stitches. I picked one of the patterns, a small one and can't get it to knit a single row in the pattern. It just snarls up and I have to take it off. Do you have any videos/tutorials on how to get patterns working? I haven't gotten the garter bar or anything yet, I just have the basic 930 machine with working electronics. Thanks very much. Holly
ReplyDeleteHi, Holly, I have lately had several requests to show how to put patterns in these machines. I'd have to borrow a 930 to film that, but perhaps I could. Anyway - turn it on. Ready light should be on. Click on Step. When pattern no. light goes green, click CE key to get the old pattern number and put your new pattern number in. Go on through the steps. Now, here's where I think you are having a problem. Go outside the turn mark with the carriage, that is, to the far side of the machine. Turn the dial on the carriage to KC. Knit 1 row. Needles will select. If no needles select, you'll get a mess. A bunch of needles should come out farther toward you than their neighbors. Now, put the machine on tuck or fairisle, or whatever, add the second color or whatever, and it should knit okay.
ReplyDelete