Machine Knitting – Tips for a Perfect Result

Machine Knitting – Tips for a Perfect Result

Knitting with cashmere is a luxurious and satisfying experience that creates incredibly soft, warm and long-lasting garments. However, cashmere is a delicate fiber, and machine knitting requires some care to ensure a flawless result. In this article, we will look at the essential steps and top tips for knitting with cashmere, resulting in perfect and long-lasting garments.

1. Know the characteristics of cashmere

Cashmere is a natural fiber obtained from the undercoat of high mountain goats, which makes it extremely soft and insulating. Due to its fineness and lightness, cashmere is delicate and requires careful processing to avoid damage or deformation. It is important to know that cashmere can vary greatly in quality, and that pure cashmere fibers tend to be more fragile and less elastic than those of other yarns.

Before you start knitting with cashmere by machine, check the type of yarn you have chosen and its consistency. Some cashmere yarns are blended with fibers like silk or cotton to improve strength and durability. These blends are great for beginners, as pure cashmere requires more skill to handle.

2. Choose the right machine

To get the best results with cashmere, it’s essential to choose the right knitting machine. Comb or single-plate machines are generally best for cashmere yarns, as they can handle fine fibers without overstressing the yarn. Fine-gauge machines in particular are ideal for cashmere, as they allow you to work with the yarn more gently.

Make sure to check the tension on your machine before you begin, and choose a looser tension to prevent the cashmere from getting damaged or fraying. Some knitting machines allow you to adjust the tension to different levels; for cashmere, a tension between 4 and 6 is recommended, but it’s always best to test a sample before proceeding with your project.

3. Prepare the cashmere for knitting

Before you start knitting, it’s important to properly prepare your cashmere yarn. Wrap the yarn in a skein and let it sit for a few hours to let it relax and release any wrinkles or tension. This also helps to make the yarn more consistent and prevent knots or snags when knitting.

Another helpful trick is to wind the cashmere onto a sewing spool, if possible, as this helps to maintain the right tension and makes it easier for the yarn to pass through the teeth of the machine.

4. Do a test swatch

A crucial step before starting your final project is to do a test swatch. Knitting a small swatch will allow you to check the tension and the result of the stitch, as well as how the yarn behaves once knitted.

Cashmere tends to give a little after knitting, so make sure to do a test swatch and wash it gently to check the fit. This step is essential to avoid ending up with a garment that, after the first wash, is larger or deformed than expected.

5. Choosing stitches for an elegant result

Some knit stitches are particularly suitable for cashmere, as they enhance its softness and natural drape. Among the most suitable stitches are the jersey stitch and the stocking stitch, which guarantee a uniform and smooth appearance, ideal for garments such as scarves, sweaters and cardigans.

Avoid stitches that are too complex or heavy, such as the narrow rib stitch or openwork patterns. These stitches require greater resistance, which cashmere, being delicate, may not support well. Instead, opt for simple stitches that allow cashmere to show off all its natural beauty.

6. Wash and block the finished garment

Once the work is finished, it is essential to wash and block the garment to stabilize the fabric and keep the cashmere soft and fluffy. To wash the garment, use cold water and a delicate detergent specifically for wool or cashmere. Let the garment soak for a few minutes, then rinse without wringing it out too much.

To dry it, lay it out on a flat surface covered with a clean towel, modeling the garment with your hands to give it the desired shape. Avoid hanging it, as the weight of the water could deform the cashmere. Once dry, the garment will be ready to be worn or stored.

7. Storage tips

Cashmere is a natural fiber that needs to be carefully stored to prevent it from deteriorating over time. It is advisable to store cashmere garments in cotton or linen bags, which allow air to circulate and prevent mold. Also, add a sachet of lavender or cedar to keep moths away.

Knitting with cashmere requires patience and attention to detail, but the end result is worth the effort. By following these tips, you can create soft, elegant, and durable cashmere pieces that will give you years of comfort and style. Whether you want to create a soft scarf, a warm sweater, or a stylish cardigan, cashmere will add a touch of luxury to any project.