A sock knitting machine helps you work on your knitting much faster than handwork. Even though hand-working takes a considerable amount of time, a sock knitting machine cuts down this time considerably. There are multiple types of sock knitting machines. Some are elementary; others can be a challenge for experts.
Sock knitting machines can make socks in minutes. Some of them supposedly need a hand crank, while others take power. The very heart of these knitting machines is circular sock knitting machines. You can find antique sock knitting machines still in good working condition. Some even build their sock knitting machines using 3d sock knitting machines. Industrial machines must knit quite a few socks at a time.
If you love sock knitting, it greatly reduces the time spent on it and gives you more to work on. It helps you create more socks of varied textures, colors, and styles, all from the same yarn. This guide will help you find the best sock-knitting machine for beginners in 2025.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- A sock knitting machine helps knitters knit socks quickly.
- There are different types of sock knitting machines.
- You can find machines for beginners and experts.
- Prices differ depending on the type of machine.
- You can find used or brand-new sock knitting machines.
- You can find on Craigslist and other sites that have some sock knitting machines for sale.
- A beginner-friendly sock knitting machine is a machine that will be easy to use.
What is a Sock Knitting Machine?
Sock knitting machines were used in olden times to make socks for family members. Yes, machine knitting has come back in a big way, from hand-knitting to Sock and hopefully to sweater machine knitting. Some collectors of vintage sock knitting machines love to collect old tools.
So, if you love sock knitting and want to save time, the sock knitting machine makes a good choice. It helps knitters make socks for themselves or sell them.
Types of Sock Knitting Machines
Sock knitting machines are designed for different applications, from home hobbyists to high-volume manufacturers. They are designed to knit socks under different speeds and conditions, offering many attractive features and customization options. Let see which one is best for you:
1. Circular Sock Knitting Machines
Circular sock knitting machines contain circular needles. They produce tube-shaped socks much faster, moving the needles after turning a crank. With these machines, seamless socks are made suitable for use at home. Due to their simplicity, they are loved by many knitters. The Erlbacher Speedster Circular Sock Knitting Machine is one of the most recognized machines in this category.
2. Flatbed Sock Knitting Machines
Flatbed sock knitting machines require knitting flat fabric, which will later have to be sewn together into socks. These are more commonly cuffed as in regular machines, are more appropriate for knitting sweaters and scarves, and are not made for seamless socks. Nevertheless, they give you greater control over patterns. Hobbyists can produce custom designs on them. Flatbed machines are slower but versatile and do well on careful details of projects.
3. Antique Sock Knitting Machines
These are the older models, yet functional. There is a lot of strong metal in their construction. People collect and restore them. A crank is used on these machines to knit socks. Hence, they are solid and last generation after generation. Vintage models like the Legare sock knitting machine are popular. Most knitters enjoy their vintage outlook and work ethics.
4. 3D Printed Sock Knitting Machines
3D knitted sock machines are modern, custom-made varieties. Hobbyists design and print parts at home. These machines do not go into mass production and are still experimental. They give you the control to alter knitting styles. Some of them are made as fun novelty projects. Building a plastic machine costs just 20% of a proper metal one. If your hobby is in the inert material stage, the community will either support it or resist it.
5. Industrial Sock Knitting Machines
The industrial sock knitting machine operates in factories. This can produce thousands of socks very quickly. They are very expensive and complex, definitely not for home use. They are programmable in factories to create patterns.
Some can knit socks of different colors. Brands such as Lonati are the more advanced versions. They help with the mass production of high-quality socks for stores worldwide.
6. Sentro Knitting Machine
The Sentro knitting machine is a versatile, hand-cranked circular knitting machine. It is easy to operate but can be an expert machine. It makes hats and scarves quickly and allows for wild card choices. It comes in different sizes and works best with worsted-weight yarn. When thinking of famous low-budget options with quick momentum, Sentro comes into mind due to the fun it brings to knitting in terms of speed and ease for crafters.
Best Sock Knitting Machines in 2025
Here, you can find the best sock-knitting machines to buy in 2025:
| Machine Name | Type | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Addi Express King Size | Circular | Beginners | $150 – $200 |
| Erlbacher sock knitting machine | Circular | Experts | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Dean and Bean’s Circular Sock Machine | 3d print sock knitting machine | Hobbyists | $300 – $500 |
| Legare 400 | Antique | Collectors | $800 – $1,500 |
| Industrial Sock Knitting Machine | Industrial | Factories | $10,000+ |
1. Addi Express King Size
Addi Express King Size is suitable for beginners. It is easy to use and does not require advanced skills. This knitting machine is cheaper than many other models. It is hand-operated, meaning it is cranked manually. Projects you can knit include socks, hats, and scarves. It is lightweight and portable, too. Many knitters appreciate it for its simplicity and speed.
2. Erlbacher Speedster Circular Sock Knitting Machine
The Erlbacher Speedster is a high-quality circular sock knitting machine. It is built with strong metal, ensuring durability. This machine is brought to expert use to produce seamless and precise socks. It has adjustable tension settings that enable it to be used with yarns of various thicknesses. The hand crank makes almost easy control of the machine. Many professional knitters love this kind of tool because of its accuracy.
3. Dean and Bean’s Circular Sock Machine
Dean and Beans’ Circular Sock Machine is made of plastic; thus, it would not stand up like metal machines. It is lightweight and customizable, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists who enjoy experimentation. Budget-friendly, this model is regarded highly, especially for modifications in knitting projects.
4. Legare 400
The Legare 400 is an antique sock knitting machine. Built during the early 1900s, it continues to be favored by collectors till today. A solid cast iron machine: strong and durable. These specific machines are restored and used by many knitters today. They make quality socks and have the classic old-world charm.
5. Industrial Sock Knitting Machine
Industrial sock knitting machines are used in factories. They produce a large volume of socks very quickly. They are pretty pricey and electrically operated. They can knit socks of varying patterns, colors, and materials. Unlike manual machines, the machines do not require a hand crank sock knitting machine. They are large and impractical for home use but useful for mass production.
Sock Knitting Machine Prices
Sock knitting machines come in inexpensive, reasonably-priced, and highly-priced varieties.
- Cheap Machines: $50-$300
- Mid-Range Machines: $300-$1,500
- High-End Machines: $1,500-$5,000
- Industrial Machines: $10,000+
Sock knitting machines sell for less when they have been used. You can find sock knitting machines for sale on Craigslist or eBay.
Final Thoughts
The sock knitting machine makes knitting easy and speedy. There are many different types of machines. You can choose your best one. Some are best for beginners, while some are for advanced knitters. The cost is wide-ranging; grab the one within your budget.
A sock knitting machine is a great tool if you love to knit. It allows you to make socks quickly and with ease. A sock knitting machine would be a good investment whether you want to knit as a hobby or for profit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are sock knitting machines for beginners?
Yes. A complete novice can use some of them. The Addi Express King Size is beginner-friendly, easy to operate, and perfect for learning circular knitting.
What yarn works best?
Most sock knitting machines operate best using medium-weight yarn that knits smoothly, maintains the correct tension, and produces comfortable, stretchy finished socks.
Where to buy sock knitting machines?
Online, in craft stores, or even from collectors who specialize in vintage and modern knitting machines, you may be able to buy a knitting machine that is used for making socks.
How soon can a sock be knitted?
A sock knitting machine can make a sock in around 30 minutes to an hour. So, it cuts down lots of time while giving good quality results as against manual knitting.
Can I sell socks made with a sock knitting machine?
Yes! Many crafty people sell their handmade socks through various websites, craft fairs, and boutiques with choices of custom designs, colors, and exclusive patterns for customers.
