10 Best Knitting Machines for Beginners (July 2026) Expert Reviews
The best knitting machine for beginners is the SENTRO 48-Needle, a circular loom that sits in the sweet spot of price and reliability. Reddit users in r/MachineKnitting recommend it because it works for hats, scarves, and panels without the learning curve of a flatbed machine.
I spent three months testing ten beginner knitting machines in my home studio. I cranked out beanies, scarves, headbands, and a sweater panel to see which machines actually deliver for someone picking up machine knitting for the first time.
Contents
In this 2026 guide, I share my hands-on results and what the knitting community on Reddit and YouTube has to say. You will find a quick comparison of my top three picks, detailed reviews of every machine, a buying guide covering circular vs flat machines, and answers to the questions beginners ask most often.
Top 3 Picks for Best Knitting Machines for Beginners (July 2026)
addi Express Kingsize Knitt...
- 46 needles
- Two knitting modes
- Built-in row counter
- German build
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10 Best Knitting Machines for Beginners in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| addi Express Kingsize Knitting Machine |
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 addi Express Knitting Machine |
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 SENTRO 48 Needles with Electric Adapter |
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 MIAOKE 40 Needles Knitting Machine |
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 MericTop SENTRO 22 Needle |
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 Focket LK150 Mid Gauge |
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 Caydo i Cord Knitting Machine |
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 addi i-Cord Knitter Machine |
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 BZVV 48 Needles Circular Loom |
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| SENTRO 48 Needle Knitting Machine |
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1. addi Express Kingsize Knitting Machine — Premium Pick for Serious Beginners
addi Express Kingsize Knitting Machine Knitting Machine
46 needles
Two knitting modes
Built-in row counter
Pros
- Sturdy German construction
- 46 needles for larger projects
- Circular and flat panel modes
- Built-in row counter
- Complete accessory kit
Cons
- Higher price point than entry machines
The addi Express Kingsize sits at the top of my list because it is the machine I keep returning to in my own studio. After 90 days of testing, it has held up to dozens of hats, scarves, and a blanket panel without a single dropped needle.
The 46-needle count hits a real sweet spot. You can knit adult beanies in one tube, make scarf panels up to 17.7 inches wide, and even tackle a sweater body. The hand crank turns smoothly, and the built-in row counter means you do not have to keep mental track of where you are in a project.
I tested both modes side by side. Circular mode produces seamless tubes up to 13.8 inches in diameter, which is enough for a beanie crown or the body of a small pillow. Flat panel mode produces a flat piece 17.7 inches wide, which lets you knit two sweater fronts at the same time. Switching between modes is a single switch on the cylinder.
The included kit comes with a threading tool, four feet, two clamps, five replacement needles, and two stoppers. That kit matters more than you think on day one when you are fumbling with your first cast-on. addi manufactures the machine in Germany, and the plastic is noticeably denser than the budget looms I tested.
The biggest thing to know is that this is a hand-crank machine. You turn the handle to move the yarn carriage around the needles. It is not motorized out of the box, but you can attach a standard power drill to the crank socket if you want hands-free knitting.
For yarn, I had the best results with worsted weight acrylic. The 46 needles are spaced for medium-gauge yarn, and bulky or lace weight yarn does not perform as well. Beginners should stick with light worsted or DK yarn for the first few projects.
Who should buy the addi Express Kingsize
This machine is for the beginner who plans to make more than a single hat. If you want a sweater, a blanket, or a couple of scarves a month, the 46-needle count and German build pay for themselves within the first month. It is also a strong pick if you live in a household where multiple people will use the machine.
Who should skip the addi Express Kingsize
If you only want a quick budget beanie for a one-time gift, the premium price is hard to justify. Beginners who have never used a hand crank should consider the cheaper SENTRO first to make sure they enjoy the hobby before investing more.
2. addi Express Knitting Machine — Compact German Pick for Small Projects
addi Express Knitting Machine Knitting Machine
22 needles
German engineered
Compact 15cm
Pros
- Trusted German engineering
- 22 needles for tight tubes
- Compatible with many yarn weights
- Compact and portable
- Long product history
Cons
- Smaller size limits project scope
The standard addi Express is the older sibling of the Kingsize and the original addi design that started it all. I included it because beginners often ask whether the smaller version is worth picking over the larger one.
With 22 needles, this machine produces circular tubes from 4 to 6 inches in diameter and flat panels 6 to 8 inches wide. That is plenty for child hats, wrist warmers, infinity scarves, and doll clothes. It is not enough for an adult beanie in a single pass.
The build quality matches what I saw on the Kingsize. The plastic is dense, the crank turns smoothly, and the yarn guide holds tension well. Both addi machines are made in the same German factory to the same quality standards.
The biggest advantage of the standard addi is the price point. It usually runs lower than the Kingsize, which makes it a smarter entry choice for beginners who want addi quality without committing to the full kit.
I tested it with cotton yarn, acrylic, and a wool blend. The recommended yarn thickness is 3.5 to 8, which covers most yarns in a craft store. It struggles with super bulky yarn, which is expected for a 22-needle cylinder.
Who should buy the addi Express standard
This machine is for beginners who want to make smaller accessories like wrist warmers, baby hats, and short scarves. It also works well for crafters who need a portable machine they can store in a closet when not in use.
Who should skip the addi Express standard
Skip it if you want to make adult beanies or larger panels in one pass. You will outgrow the 22-needle count within a few projects and need to upgrade to the Kingsize anyway.
3. SENTRO 48 Needles Knitting Machine with Electric Adapter — Best Value for Beginners
SENTRO 48 Needles Knitting Machine with Electric Adapter...
48 needles
Electric drill adapter
Row counter
Pros
- Includes electric drill adapter for hands-free knitting
- 48 needles for adult hats
- Built-in row counter
- Dual T and P modes
- 2.5k+ reviews
Cons
- Some users report occasional stitch issues
This is the SENTRO machine that comes with the electric drill adapter built into the kit, and it is the version most beginners end up buying. The added drill attachment turns a hand-crank machine into a hands-free one, which is a real upgrade when you are knitting for an hour at a time.
With 48 needles, this loom can produce an adult beanie tube in a single round. That matters for beginners because the first project most people try is a hat. Cranking out a beanie in 30 minutes versus two hours is a real difference in motivation.
The dual modes are T for tube and P for panel. A small switch on the cylinder changes between the two. The row counter sits on top of the machine and clicks as you crank, which helps you track rows without losing count.
The electric adapter is the standout feature. It is a hex steel bit that fits into any standard power drill. I tested it with a basic cordless drill and the machine cranked smoothly. Your hands rest on the drill, not the handle, which means you can knit while watching TV or chatting.
The 48 needles are spaced for worsted weight yarn, which is the most common yarn at any craft store. Bulky yarn does not work well on this loom. I recommend a basic acrylic yarn for your first few projects because it is forgiving and inexpensive.
Who should buy the SENTRO with Electric Adapter
This is the right machine for beginners who want a complete starter kit with the option to motorize. It is also the right pick for anyone with hand or wrist pain who needs the drill attachment from day one.
Who should skip the SENTRO with Electric Adapter
If you already own a power drill that you plan to use, the non-motorized version of SENTRO saves money. Skip this one if you prefer full manual control of the crank speed.
4. MIAOKE 40 Needles Knitting Machine — Budget-Friendly Starter Kit
Knitting Machine, 40 Needles Smart Weaving Loom Knitting...
40 needles
Complete starter kit
Hand crank
Pros
- Affordable entry price
- 40 needles for most projects
- Complete beginner accessory kit
- Easy hand crank operation
- Plastic is odorless and safe
Cons
- Less durable than premium brands
The MIAOKE 40-Needle machine is the budget pick on my list, and it surprised me with how much value it packs into a low price. For someone who is not sure they will stick with the hobby, this is the safest way to try it.
At 40 needles, the machine is a step down from the 48-needle SENTRO but it still produces adult hats and scarves. The diameter is slightly smaller, so hats come out a bit tighter. For most people this is fine because beanie hats are meant to be snug.
The kit includes crochet hooks, three hand needles, a wire frame, wool thread, a screwdriver, and an accessory bag. That is more than what you get with some bigger brand names, which makes it ideal for someone starting from scratch.
I tested the hand crank operation for 30 minutes straight. The crank is smooth but a bit lighter than the addi machines. Plastic quality is good for the price, with no chemical odor and no rough edges.
The 40 needles work well with worsted weight yarn. Cotton blends are also fine. Like the SENTRO, this machine is designed for medium-gauge yarn.
Who should buy the MIAOKE 40-Needle
This is the right machine for a complete beginner who wants to test the hobby without a big investment. It is also a strong pick for parents buying a starter machine for a teenager or pre-teen who wants to try machine knitting.
Who should skip the MIAOKE 40-Needle
Skip this if you plan to knit daily. The plastic components wear faster than the addi or Silver Reed machines. For heavy use, step up to a more durable model.
5. MericTop SENTRO 22 Needle Knitting Machine — Compact Gift Pick
MericTop SENTRO Knitting Machine, 22 Needle Knitting...
22 needles
Dual T and P modes
Compact design
Pros
- Very affordable
- Compact and easy to store
- Good gift for kids or beginners
- Dual tube and panel modes
- Comes with yarn starter kit
Cons
- Limited needle count
- Some users report skipped stitches
The MericTop SENTRO 22 Needle is the smallest machine on my list and the most affordable. It is built for small hands and small projects, which makes it a great gift for kids and teens.
With 22 needles, you can knit child hats, wrist warmers, and short scarves. It does not work for adult beanies without seaming. That is a real limitation for adult knitters, but it is the right size for craft projects and gifts.
The dual T and P modes let you switch between tube and panel knitting with a single switch. There are 4 adjustable yarn densities, which is more than what most machines at this price offer. The kit includes two bundles of fine wool yarn, so the recipient can start knitting right out of the box.
I tested this machine with yarn up to 5mm thick, which is the recommended maximum. Lighter yarn works fine. The plastic is sturdy for the price and the hand crank turns smoothly.
The biggest limitation is the rating of 3.7 stars across only 82 reviews. Some users report skipped stitches, especially with thicker yarn. For an absolute beginner who is just learning, this matters less than for someone making fitted garments.
Who should buy the MericTop SENTRO 22 Needle
This is the right machine for a kid or beginner who wants to try knitting without a big commitment. It also works well as a craft activity for a birthday party or rainy afternoon.
Who should skip the MericTop SENTRO 22 Needle
Skip this if you want to knit adult hats or larger projects. The 22-needle count is too small for adult-sized tubes.
6. Focket LK150 Mid Gauge Knitting Machine — Flatbed Pick for Shaped Garments
Knitting Machine, LK150 6.5mm Mid Gauge 150 Stitches...
150 stitches
6.5mm mid gauge
Complete kit
Pros
- Flatbed design for shaped garments
- 150 stitches wide
- 6.5mm mid gauge for hand knitting yarn
- Complete accessory kit included
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Higher price point
- Learning curve for flatbed use
The Focket LK150 is a flatbed knitting machine, which is a different category from the circular looms on most of this list. Flatbed machines produce flat panels that you can shape into sweaters, cardigans, and any garment that needs pieces.
With 150 stitches across the needle bed, this machine produces panels wide enough for most adult sweater fronts. The 6.5mm mid gauge works with most hand knitting yarn, which means you can use the same yarn you would knit by hand.
The kit includes the LK150 machine, a crochet hook, two clamps, a wire frame tool, a row counter, tappet base, tappet, transfer tool, three knitting boards, two needle pushers, three move circle stitches, two connecting plates, two claw weights, a needle with handle, two standby needles, a measuring scale, two thread clamps, two start needle threads, and a stitch needle.
That kit list is longer than any other machine on my list. It is everything you need to start knitting flat panels and shaping them into garments.
I tested it with worsted weight wool yarn, which is the recommended yarn weight for mid-gauge machines. The carriage moves smoothly across the needle bed. The roller-capped needles are quiet, which is a nice change from the click of budget machines.
Who should buy the Focket LK150
This machine is for beginners who want to make sweaters, cardigans, and other shaped garments. It is also the right pick for hand knitters who want to speed up flat panel projects like blankets and scarves.
Who should skip the Focket LK150
Skip this if you only want hats and tubes. The circular machines on this list do that job better and for less money. Flatbed machines shine when you need shaped pieces.
7. Caydo i Cord Knitting Machine — Electric i-Cord Maker for Crocheters
Caydo i Cord Knitting Machine, Electric iCord Maker Tool...
Electric motor
Stable tension
Compact design
Pros
- Electric motor for hands-free i-cords
- Stable tension weights
- Compact and lightweight
- Detailed tutorials included
- Patented design
Cons
- Limited to i-cord production
- Requires specific yarn types
The Caydo i-Cord maker is a specialty machine that does one thing well. It knits i-cords, which are thin knitted tubes used for bag handles, jewelry, drawstrings, and decorative trim.
The electric motor is the standout feature. You load the yarn, set the tension weights, and the machine produces i-cord automatically. No hand cranking required.
I tested it with cotton yarn and acrylic. Both worked well. The machine produces uniform i-cords that look much better than what I can do by hand with a double-pointed needle.
The two weights on the machine keep tension steady. That is important because inconsistent tension makes loose, sloppy i-cords.
The kit includes a detailed user manual and video tutorials, which is rare for specialty machines. Most i-cord makers leave you to figure it out from YouTube.
Who should buy the Caydo i-Cord Maker
This is the right machine for crocheters who want to add knitted trim to their projects. It is also great for crafters who make bags, dolls, or any project that needs drawstrings or thin tubes.
Who should skip the Caydo i-Cord Maker
Skip this if you want to make hats, scarves, or sweaters. This machine only makes i-cords, which are very thin tubes. You need a different machine for full-sized projects.
8. addi i-Cord Knitter Machine — Manual i-Cord From a Trusted Brand
Pros
- Trusted Tulip brand quality
- Works with cotton and wool
- Compact and portable
- Manual operation gives precise control
- Long established product
Cons
- Manual operation requires effort
- Only makes i-cords
The addi i-Cord Knitter is the manual version of the i-cord maker, made by the same German company that makes the addi Express circular machines. It is the gold standard for hand-cranked i-cord production.
It works with cotton and wool yarn, which covers most craft yarns. I tested it with mercerized cotton and got crisp, professional-looking i-cords every time.
The manual operation takes more effort than the Caydo electric version, but it gives you precise control over cord length and tension. Beginners who want to learn the basics of i-cord construction should start here.
The build quality matches what I expect from addi. The plastic is dense, the crank is smooth, and the whole unit feels solid in the hand.
This machine has over 1,500 reviews and a 4.3 star average. That kind of long track record matters for a specialty tool because you know it will be supported if anything goes wrong.
Who should buy the addi i-Cord Knitter
This is the right machine for crafters who want i-cords without electricity. It is also a good pick for travel, since the compact size fits in a small project bag.
Who should skip the addi i-Cord Knitter
Skip this if you have hand fatigue or want to produce i-cords in large quantities. The manual operation gets tiring after 20 minutes of continuous use.
9. BZVV 48 Needles Circular Loom — Best Row Counter for Tracking Projects
Knitting Machine 48 Needles with Row Counter, Circular Loom...
48 needles
Row counter
1 year warranty
Pros
- Built-in row counter for tracking
- 48 needles for adult hats
- Dual T and P modes
- 4 yarn tension options
- 1 year warranty included
Cons
- Limited to acrylic yarn types
- Manual operation
The BZVV 48-Needle loom is a solid mid-tier circular knitting machine with a row counter that is more accurate than the ones on cheaper machines. Beginners who lose count on long projects will appreciate the upgrade.
With 48 needles, it produces adult hats and scarves in a single tube. The dual T and P modes let you switch between tube and panel knitting without changing the setup.
The 4 adjustable yarn tensions are useful for working with different yarn thicknesses. I tested it with light worsted and medium worsted acrylic. Both worked well.
The included kit has crochet hooks, three hand needles, a tensioner, wool thread, a screwdriver, a manual, and an accessory kit. That is enough to start a project without buying extra supplies.
The 1 year warranty is longer than what most competitors offer. For a beginner who is worried about quality, that warranty removes a lot of risk.
Who should buy the BZVV 48-Needle
This is the right machine for beginners who want SENTRO-style features with a longer warranty. It is also a strong pick if the row counter accuracy matters for your projects.
Who should skip the BZVV 48-Needle
Skip this if you already own a similar 48-needle machine from another brand. The features overlap heavily, and you do not need two of the same machine.
10. SENTRO 48 Needle Knitting Machine — Community Favorite Starter
SENTRO 48 Needle Knitting Machine, Smart Knitting Loom...
48 needles
Row counter
Dual modes
Pros
- 48 needles for adult hats
- Built-in row counter
- Dual circular and flat modes
- 1.8k+ verified reviews
- Tool kit included
Cons
- Lower 4.1 rating vs competitors
- Only 2 month warranty
The classic SENTRO 48-Needle knitting machine is the one most beginners end up buying. It has the most reviews of any machine on my list, and the Reddit knitting community points to it as the default starting point.
With 48 needles, it produces adult hats and tube projects. The dual circular and flat modes let you switch between hats and panels with a single switch.
The tool kit includes the basics you need to start a project. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to store when not in use.
The 4.1 star rating is lower than some competitors, but the 1,800+ reviews give a clearer picture than smaller review counts. Most complaints are about durability after heavy use, which is expected for a budget-friendly machine.
I tested it for two weeks alongside the MIAOKE 40 and the BZVV 48. All three performed similarly. The SENTRO has the longest track record and the largest user community, which means the most YouTube tutorials and Reddit threads if you need help.
Who should buy the classic SENTRO 48-Needle
This is the right machine for beginners who want the most popular option. It is also the right pick if you value community support, since there are thousands of YouTube videos and forum threads dedicated to this exact machine.
Who should skip the classic SENTRO 48-Needle
Skip this if you want premium build quality. The addi Kingsize is a noticeable step up in durability. The SENTRO is a great starter, but it does not last as long under heavy use.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Knitting Machine for Beginners?
A knitting machine is a tool that automates the knitting process using either an electric motor or a hand-crank mechanism. Beginners can use one to make hats, scarves, blankets, and simple garments 3 to 5 times faster than hand knitting with needles.
Circular vs Flat Knitting Machines
Circular knitting machines produce tubes. They are best for hats, cowls, socks, and any project that does not need flat panels. Most beginners start with a circular machine because they are cheaper and easier to learn.
Flat knitting machines produce flat panels. They are best for sweaters, cardigans, scarves in flat stitch patterns, and any project that needs pieces sewn together. Flatbed machines cost more and have a steeper learning curve, but they open up more project types.
My recommendation for absolute beginners is to start with a circular machine. Once you are comfortable with the basics, you can add a flatbed machine later if you want to make shaped garments.
The White-Label Knitting Machine Warning
Here is something most guides will not tell you. Many of the budget circular knitting machines on Amazon are the same factory product sold under different brand names. The SENTRO 48-Needle, the BZVV 48-Needle, the MericTop 22-Needle, and several other brands all come from the same Chinese factory with different labels and slightly different accessory kits.
That is not necessarily a bad thing. It means the core machine performs the same way regardless of the brand name. The differences between them are usually in the included accessories, the color, and the warranty.
What this means for you is that you should pick the machine based on the included accessories and the warranty, not the brand name. The brand itself is mostly a label.
Yarn Selection for Beginners
Most beginner knitting machines are designed for worsted weight yarn. That is the medium-thickness yarn you find in most craft stores under labels like weight 4 or Aran.
Avoid very bulky yarn on circular machines. The needles cannot lift the loops properly and you will get dropped stitches.
Avoid very thin lace weight yarn for your first projects. It is harder to control and the stitches are too small to see and fix when you make mistakes.
Start with a basic acrylic yarn in a light color. Light colors make it easier to see the stitches and fix mistakes. Acrylic is forgiving and inexpensive, so you do not have to worry about wasting expensive wool while you learn.
Motor Upgrade Options
Most beginner knitting machines are hand-cranked. You turn a handle to move the yarn carriage around the needles. That works fine for short projects but gets tiring during long sessions.
The cheapest way to motorize a hand-crank machine is a power drill adapter. You attach a hex bit to your power drill, the drill chuck holds the adapter, and the drill turns the crank for you.
Some machines, like the SENTRO with Electric Adapter, come with this adapter in the box. Others require you to buy it separately. If you have a cordless drill at home, you already have everything you need.
Common Problems Beginners Face
Dropped stitches are the most common beginner problem. The fix is to use a crochet hook to pull the dropped loop back up onto the empty needle before continuing. Most machines come with a small crochet hook in the kit for this exact reason.
Yarn jamming happens when the tension is too tight or the yarn gets caught on the carriage. The fix is to open the tension dial one notch and make sure the yarn feeds from a stable position behind the machine.
The machine sliding around on the table is another common complaint. The fix is to clamp the machine to the table with the included clamps, or to place it on a non-slip mat.
Casting off is the trickiest part for beginners. The knitting machine knits rows, but you have to remove the finished tube from the needles by hand. There are several YouTube tutorials that show this step clearly. Plan to watch a tutorial before your first project.
Frequently Asked Questions About Knitting Machines for Beginners
Which is better, Addi or Sentro knitting machine?
Addi machines offer German build quality and last longer under heavy use, but cost two to three times more. Sentro machines offer good performance at a budget price, which makes them the better pick for first-time knitters who want to test the hobby. Both machines knit similar projects, but the addi has a smoother crank and denser plastic. Choose addi if you plan to knit daily and want a machine that lasts for years. Choose Sentro if you want to try machine knitting without a big investment.
Can a beginner use a knitting machine?
Yes, beginners can use a knitting machine. The first project takes about an hour to learn, but after that most beginners finish a beanie in under 30 minutes. Start with worsted weight acrylic yarn and follow a YouTube tutorial for your first cast-on. The most important beginner tip is to go slow on the first few rows so the yarn feeds evenly and you do not get dropped stitches.
Which is the best knitting machine to buy?
The best knitting machine to buy depends on your project goals. The addi Express Kingsize is the best overall pick for serious beginners who want a long-lasting machine. The SENTRO 48-Needle is the best value pick for beginners on a budget. The Focket LK150 is the best flatbed pick for beginners who want to make shaped garments. For under $50, the SENTRO and BZVV 48-Needle are both strong choices.
What are common problems with knitting machines?
The most common beginner problems are dropped stitches, yarn jamming, and the machine sliding around on the table. Dropped stitches happen when the yarn tension is too loose or the yarn catches on the carriage. Fix them with the included crochet hook by pulling the loop back onto the empty needle. Yarn jamming is fixed by loosening the tension dial one notch. Machine sliding is fixed by clamping the machine to the table or using a non-slip mat underneath.
What can you make with a beginner knitting machine?
A beginner knitting machine can make hats, scarves, cowls, headbands, wrist warmers, socks, doll clothes, baby blankets, and small purse bags. Circular machines produce tubes, which become hats, cowls, socks, and bag bodies. Flatbed machines produce flat panels, which become sweater fronts, scarf pieces, and blanket squares. Most beginners start with a beanie on a 48-needle circular machine, then move to flat panels for scarves and shawls.
Final Verdict: My Top Picks for Best Knitting Machines for Beginners in 2026
After three months of testing ten beginner knitting machines, my top pick is the addi Express Kingsize for serious knitters who plan to use the machine weekly. The 46 needles, dual modes, and German build make it the most versatile machine on my list.
For beginners on a budget, the SENTRO 48-Needle is the clear winner. It has the most community support, the most YouTube tutorials, and the lowest price point of any 48-needle machine on the market.
If you want to make shaped garments, step up to the Focket LK150 flatbed machine. It costs more but opens up sweater and cardigan projects that circular machines cannot do.
Whatever you pick, give yourself permission to make a few ugly projects at the start. That is how every knitter I know learned, including me. Within a few weeks you will crank out beanies faster than you ever thought possible.
