New Textiles 2011

One week ago, I really never thought I’d be able to knit anything.  Many hours in the lab and one week later, I probably still can’t knit anything that anyone but I would wear — but I think (fingers crossed!) I am getting one step closer.

Half-Knitted Sock

This process was not easy for me.  Despite the time I put into the lab and the many failed experiments I had, I am still not able to do a proper cast-off and am still not sure exactly what to do when something gets caught or gets sewn incorrectly.  I am amazed at how quickly the machine is able to knit the yarn and how I am able to get such nicely tailored clothes from the store.

I experimented with different patterns — from the cascading inward hole technique to trying to knit loops.  What I found was that even small changes in the patterns (of just one needle) was noticeable and in fact, larger changes (of several needles) often broke the tension and the structure enough to sabotage the entire effort.

All in all, this week helped me learn some of the technique needed to use both yarn machines – and more than anything, appreciate all the clothes that I wear, especially my knit scarves.

Some of my failed experiments

First successful knit on the big machine

First cloth from the smaller machine

Second cloth with the smaller machine