Michael’s (a large craft store chain here in the USA) has come out with it’s own circular knitting machine. I bought it and ran it through it’s paces. Here’s my initial impression:
UPDATE: This machine seems to be inconsistent in production quality. Many people report broken gears soon after purchase while others do not. Mine lasted a good while but I eventually wore it out, too.
Sheepishly Sharing 
do you have an alternative crown for knitted hat on Addi. I want one that will not be so bulky in the top. Any suggestions.
Not one you can do ON the machine. You could take it off when it’s about 2″ short of being done, put it on needles and do regular, hand-knit hat decreases.
Do find it drops stich?
I made 2 hats but now everyone I try to use it, it drops stitches after I have knit several rows.
No… as long as you keep good tension it works well. Try a different yarn.
where can I get patterns for the machine
Everything I know about circular knitting machines can be found here: