Beginner's Guide to Circular Knitting Machines

If you’ve ever watched a maker smoothly turn a handle and magically create rows of perfect stitches, you’re not alone—circular knitting machines have become incredibly popular among crafters of all ages. They’re fun, fast, and surprisingly beginner-friendly, making them the perfect introduction to the world of yarn and knitting.

Whether you’re completely new to crafting or simply curious about how tools like mine help create the cosy pieces at Handmade by Emma, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started.

✨ What Is a Circular Knitting Machine?

A circular knitting machine is a hand-powered tool that uses rotating needles to knit tubes or flat panels of fabric. Instead of using knitting needles, you turn a crank that moves the yarn through the needles, creating smooth, even stitches.

My first knitting machine- a Sentro 48 needle machine

Think of it as:

• Less fuss

• More speed

• And still full of handmade charm

It’s beginner-friendly, family-friendly, and a great entry point for people who find traditional knitting overwhelming.

✨ Why Use a Circular Knitting Machine?

Circular knitting machines are loved by beginners and experienced makers for a few simple reasons:

1. They’re quick

You can knit a beanie in minutes or a scarf in an hour.

2. They’re easy to learn

No complicated techniques—just crank and guide the yarn.

3. They’re versatile

Use them for beanies, teddies, headbands, blankets, scarves, and more.

4. They produce consistent stitches

Even tension and neat finishes are much easier to achieve than with needles.

5. They make crafting fun

There’s something soothing and satisfying about watching your project grow as you turn the handle.

✨ What You Can Make with a Circular Knitting Machine

Circular knitting machines can create:

• Beanies (single or double layered)

• Toys and stuffed animals

• Snoods and scarves

• Blanket panels

• Headbands and ear warmers

• Decorative pieces like pumpkins or baubles

• Custom gifts

At Handmade by Emma, many of my products begin on the machine before being shaped, stuffed, stitched, and finished by hand.

✨ Choosing the Right Yarn

The yarn you use can make or break your experience. Here’s what beginners should look for:

• Weight: Most circular machines work best with DK or worsted/8-ply yarn.

• Texture: Smooth yarns glide through the machine easily; fuzzy or textured yarns may snag.

• Quality: Soft, durable yarn makes a world of difference—especially for beanies and baby items.

Tip: Start with inexpensive yarn while learning, then switch to your favourite brands once you’re confident.

✨ How to Get Started: Step-by-Step

Here’s a simple way to begin your circular knitting journey:

1. Set up your machine

Place it on a stable surface and secure it with clamps if needed.

2. Cast on your yarn

Thread the yarn through the tension guide and carefully hook it around alternating needles until you’ve made a full circle.

3. Start cranking

Turn the handle slowly for the first few rows to ensure the yarn catches properly. Once it’s secure, you can speed up.

4. Knit to your desired length

For a basic beanie, keep cranking until you have a long tube—usually double the length you want for the final hat.

5. Cast off

Follow your machine’s instructions to remove the project from the needles without dropping stitches.

6. Finish by hand

Close the ends, add any decorative touches, shape your piece, or sew multiple panels together for larger projects.

✨ Common Beginner Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

A few bumps in the road are normal—but here’s how to dodge the most common issues:

• Dropped stitches: Go slow for the first rows and keep the tension steady.

• Yarn jams: Avoid thick or textured yarn until you’re confident.

• Loose tension: Make sure the yarn is feeding through the tensioner correctly.

• Uneven fabric: Keep your cranking speed consistent—smooth and steady wins.

  
  

Remember: every mistake is part of learning!

✨ Tips for a Smooth Knitting Experience

• Use weights to help keep the fabric straight as it knits.

• Turn the crank at an even pace.

• Regularly check that all needles are catching the yarn.

• Don’t be afraid to frog (unravel) your work—everyone does it!

• Experiment! Try stripes, double layers, pom poms, panels… the options are endless.

  
  

✨ Why I Love Circular Knitting Machines

My circular knitting machine is at the heart of many of the products I create for Handmade by Emma. It allows me to produce beautifully consistent fabric while still keeping each item truly handmade through hours of finishing, shaping, and careful detail work.

It’s not just a tool—it’s a creative partner that helps bring soft, comforting pieces into the world. And for beginners, it’s one of the most rewarding ways to start crafting.

✨ Final Thoughts

Circular knitting machines make crafting accessible, fun, and wonderfully satisfying. Whether you’re making your first beanie or dreaming up bigger projects, this little machine opens the door to endless creativity. With a bit of practice and the right yarn, you’ll be amazed at what you can create.