4 Best Knitting Machines For Beginners (May 2023 Review)

Addi Express King Size Extended Edition Review

Released in September 2023, the Addi Express King Size Extended Edition is a new and slightly improved version of the Addi Express King Size model I reviewed below. The company has taken great care to improve the row counter feature. If you regularly knit items that require an accurate row count, I’d recommend splurging on this model as I believe it’s the best knitting machine around.

Although the extended edition is slightly more expensive that the original, this Addi knitting machine comes with some bells and whistles that make the machine more versatile. Along with replacement needles, a threading tool, stoppers, feet, and clamps, the kit includes a newly released pattern book entitled, “Winding Instead of Knitting.” I have to admit, I’m not keen on the title, as machine knitting is still indeed knitting. But the book does give knitters options beyond basic machine knitting.

Just like the original, the extended model knitting machine includes 46 needles. It’s sturdy and made from high-quality materials, which I’ve come to expect from Addi.

If you’re brand new to machine knitting, keep in mind that there may be a learning curve. Because dropped stitches and imperfect finished objects are to be expected in the beginning, I’d recommend using scrap yarn at first. Of course, re-knitting a skein or ball of yarn is an option if the finished item fails to meet your expectations.

This Addi knitting machine works best with worsted weight yarns, although it’s possible to hold finer yarns double. I’ve learned that trial and error is the best way to find out if the knitting machine works well with particular yarns.

If you are trying to decide between the original and extended models, consider the enhanced features and whether they are worth the additional cost. If the improved row counter is a feature you will utilize regularly, the extended version may be your best bet.

This professional knitting machine performs incredibly well and it’s brilliantly versatile. If you want the best knitting machine around then look no further!

Addi Express King Size Knitting Machine Kit Review

Whether you’ve been knitting for decades or you’re new to the craft, you can’t go wrong with Addi products. Along with their popular lines of fixed and interchangeable knitting needles, Addi is well-known for creating dependable knitting machines.

The Addi Express King Size circular model includes 46 needles, making it ideal for larger projects. And because this model comes in the form of a kit, you’ll receive everything you need in one package.

With four base feet, hooks for table mounting, and a handy digital row counter, this Addi knitting machine is truly an amazing value! For the money it’s the best knitting machine available.

Although the company recommends using the machine with yarn weights ranging from 4 to 8, I’ve found that this machine works best with worsted weight yarns. I would not recommend attempting to knit bulky or other heavier weight yarns with this knitting machine. I would also steer clear of fuzzier yarns, as the fiber tends to get stuck in the machine’s needles, which can cause them to break.

When knitting circular items, the Addi Express King Size Machine creates fabric measuring approximately 10 to 15 inches in diameter. I particularly enjoy knitting hats and other items that require a larger tube.

I appreciate the fact that this Addi knitting machine has the capability of knitting flat projects in addition to circular items. When knitting flat, the finished fabric measures approximately 18 inches wide.

If you have lots of yarn leftovers, a great way to use them is to knit them flat and then knit, crochet, or sew them together by hand to form a scrappy blanket. I’ve made several blankets for family members and friends, and they’re always well received!

For a tutorial on knitting flat with the Addi King Size model, click here.

It’s important to note that the majority of items knitted on a knitting machine will require some hand knitting or sewing. For instance, if you knit a tube for a hat on the machine, you’ll need to decrease for the crown with your preferred knitting needles. As an alternative, you can simply pull the yarn taut to cinch up the knitted fabric.

The machine primarily knits stockinette, although it can be manually manipulated to create some simple patterns. It is not intended to use for intricate patterns.

This is a relatively lightweight knitting machine, weighing in at just over 4 pounds, making it easily portable. The product dimensions are 10.2 x 6 x 10 inches. It requires a single AAA battery, which is included in the kit, but I recommend having extras on hand.

This Addi model is one of the best knitting machines for all skill levels. It is the perfect solution if you’re looking to work through your stash quickly. When compared to knitting by hand, I would describe this machine as a speedster.

Whether you’re planning to purchase a knitting machine to crank out projects quickly, or you can’t knit by hand for any reason, I feel confident recommending this product. It’s truly the best knitting machine for beginners out there.

Addi Express Professional Knitting Machine Review

Smaller than the king-sized version and offered at a more affordable price point, the Addi Express Professional Knitting Machine is the best knitting machine to buy on a budget.

With 22 needles and a built-in row counter, this machine is perfect for creating smaller knitted items. The kit also includes replacement needles, a plastic needle for hand-sewing, leg clamps for easy mounting, and an instruction manual.

The knitting machine itself measures 9.1 x 9.8 x 5.9 inches. At just under 3 pounds, it’s easily portable.

Just like the aforementioned models, this Addi knitting machine is capable of creating both circular and flat material. Circular items knit up to approximately 4 to 6 inches, while flat items knit up to about 6 to 8 inches wide.

If you’d like to make narrow scarves and/or baby or children’s items, this knitting machine is ideal. If you prefer to make items in various sizes and widths, and your budget allows, I’d recommend this Addi model in addition to the king size version.

Although I haven’t personally taken note of how long it takes to knit an object with this machine, one Amazon reviewer shared that this machine knits 60 to 65 rows in under two minutes. As with the king-sized version, the Addi Express is a great stash buster! If you have a large yarn stash, this machine makes completing finished objects fast and easy.

I’ve found that the row counter isn’t always accurate or reliable, but I wouldn’t consider this lackluster feature a deal-breaker. The knitting machine still has plenty to offer.

When you first start using this Addi knitting machine, I’d recommend having a crochet hook on hand, as dropped stitches are to be expected. Just like with any knitting machine, you’ll likely need to adjust your tension and knit practice pieces to perfect the craft. Patience is definitely key!

As with the other Addi machines I’ve reviewed, worsted yarn works best with the Addi Express. While it’s possible to hold two strands of finer yarn together, I’ve found that I have to be very careful to knit the strands in tandem.

Although this model comes with replacement needles, I love that Addi also sells them separately. If you want to stock up on replacement needles, you can purchase them here.

Whether you’re knitting for fun, profit, charity, or any other reason, I highly recommend this Addi model. If you’re looking for the best knitting machine on a budget this might be just the ticket!

MIAOKE Knitting Machine Kit Review

If you’re brand new to knitting, or a higher priced machine just isn’t in the budget, the MIAOKE Knitting Machine Kit might be the best knitting machine for complete beginners. This knitting machine is ideal for crafters of all ages and skill levels. (The recommended age is 8+.) And because it’s completely manual, there’s no need for batteries.

At just 1 pound, this machine is easy to tote and store. It measures 16.1 x 14.6 x 4.8 inches, and it includes 48 needles.

Whether you want to knit circular or flat objects, the MIOKE knitting machine will help you create beautiful finished items. It’s great for hats, scarves, and other flat or tubular objects.

Although this knitting machine does come with user instructions, I’d recommend utilizing YouTube to get a feel for how knitting machines work. There are several videos highlighting the MIOKE knitting machine that will help you with the basics.

This knitting machine works best for smaller items, such as children’s hats, although it does work for smaller adult-sized hats as well. I’ve tested several weights of yarn and have found that DK, sport, and worsted weights work fairly well with the machine. I wouldn’t recommend using this model with fingering or bulky weight yarns.

I’d particularly recommend this as the best knitting machine for children, or for folks who are unsure if they will enjoy the hobby. The reasonable price point makes this a great beginner machine; however, I’d definitely recommend it to seasoned crafters as well.