Review: Prym Maxi & Generic Knitting Machines

I love circular machine knitting and because the Addi Express machines are so expensive, I’m always on the lookout for possible substitutions! In this video, I compare the Prym Maxi with a Generic, no-name machine (which pleasantly surprised me, btw!)

Be sure to check out links to all products discussed in this video.*

And I have a whole page on this blog dedicated to learning more about circular knitting machines! You can also find links to reviews of other machines here.

* Denotes affiliate link.

Hat Sizing Chart

The majority of my knit and crochet hats are done for charity, therefore, I don’t have a way to measure the heads that will wear them. Sooo… my secret is to keep sizing charts handy! 

Download my Hat Sizing Charts! You’ll find 2 charts included in the download… one for crochet and one for knitting. Keep it handy in your phone or print it for your yarn bag!

Crochet is simple to size and the same chart can be use with any gauge, yarn weight or hook size.

The Knitting Chart will include cast-on numbers. This is great when you have a open skein of yarn and no plan or pattern in mind! After a quick glance at the cast-on numbers, I can knit a simple, basic beanie without having to go on a pattern hunt! (IMHO, this is perfect when the yarn needs to do the shining. I like solid colors for cables and fancy stitches.)

And there’s now a THIRD chart added to help you avoid the harrowing game of Yarn Chicken! I’ve shared my tricks for determining yarn length for 1 row in crochet, knitting and circular machine knitting, too!

 

Interested in charity work? There are several things to consider before jumping in! Click this link for a video I did a while back on the topic.

Knitting Machine Tube Size Comparison!

Curious about the sizes from different circular knitting machines? Here are 4 samples and their measurements!

Knit Quick Knitting Machine First Impression

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.

Motorized Addi Express!

It’s no secret that I love my Addi Express knitting machines but I’ve always wished they could be motorized. I finally accomplished it with the help of an old sewing machine motor! One of my main goals was to accomplish this with as little alteration to the Addi as possible and since I know very little about electrical and mechanical engineering, it had to be EASY! Here’s how I worked it out:

Reversible Fair Isle Beanie for Addi Express

Opening Slide

As requested by Laura Brown, here’s an Addi Express King Size tutorial for a great hat! The Addi Fair Isle technique was taught to me in this video by The Answer Lady Knits.

  • This pattern is recommended for Intermediate to Advanced Addi users!
  • If you’re already familiar with fair isle on the Addi then the “pattern” below will be all you need.
  • If you’ve never done fair isle on the Addi, please watch the video before you post a question!

Pattern Pic

This hat was done with Vanna’s Choice colors Purple, Pink and Mustard.
130 rows total

NEW Singer Knitting Machine

Guess what?! Singer appears to have used the Addi Professional as a model and revamped their children’s knitting machine. The first one (that has been out for years) was less than adequate. Click here for the link to that review.  But on a happier note, the new machine has promise for those who want to try their hand at circular machine knitting before they invest in a quality machine. HOWEVER, be aware that the old one is still on the market so be sure NOT to waste your money on that one! See what I’m talking about here:

Addi Express Fingerless Mitts

I get requests for fingerless mitts all the time and I didn’t have a clue how to do it! I’ve finally come up with something to give you but be aware that there are TWO versions: Beginner and Intermediate/Advanced.  I strongly suggest watching the videos as sometimes it’s difficult to accurately describe specific actions in words!

BEGINNER VERSION
1. Download the written pattern here: Addi fingerless mitts Beginner

2. Watch the video here:

INTERMEDIATE-ADVANCED VERSION
1. Download the written pattern here: Addi fingerless mitts Advanced

2. Watch the video here:

Have you joined the Facebook group Addi King, Loomers and Knits?

FAQs about Addi Express Knitting Machines

I get LOTS of questions about the Addi machines and it finally occurred to me that an informational video would be in order! In the video, you’ll find answers to these questions:

1. First of all, “What IS an Addi Express Knitting Machine?”

2. “Why would I want one?”

3. “What are the advantages over a flat bed knitting machine?”

4. “Can you make other things besides hats and scarves?”

5. “I can only buy one machine. Which Addi is the best?”

 

Choosing a Work Table for Addi Express

“The Perfect Work Table.” Yep, I was on a mission to find that thing. I tried the remove-a-leaf-from-your-dining-room-table technique. I made my own from an old chair. But the one that shows the most promise is a workbench “invented” by my friend Suzy Notting. I think hers is a better quality than mine but have no fear… I have plans to make it perfect!

Remember as with any of my Addi info… this can be useful for and Innovations or any circular knitting machine!