3D Printed Cord Knitting Machine

I have built a cord knitting machine that automatically knits cords from yarn. It uses special needles with a lockable flap and can be adjusted for different yarn thicknesses. All parts are 3D printable and individually adjustable.

📹 Setup video of the machine: Watch YouTube video

🌐 Further information: Visit website

📥 Download files: Available on Etsy and Cults.

I printed the machine with my Bambulab X1C and A1.

Check out Bambulab X1C

Check out Bambulab A1

Mechanical components:

Ball bearing: https://amzn.to/3ElcSO4

Flange: https://amzn.to/3Ei2JSt

Latch needle (knitting needles): https://amzn.to/40xE4As

Ball bearing: https://amzn.to/3CFY7EY

Ball bearing: https://amzn.to/3WDIBk0

Pulley: https://amzn.to/3WIKzPZ

Belt: https://amzn.to/3WEl2r6

Electronic components:

Motor: https://amzn.to/4gl3cjV

PWM controller (for speed control): https://amzn.to/3EeDOPq

Download the 3D print files from Etsy or Cults:

👉 Etsy

👉 Cults

Recommended print settings:

Material: PLA or PETG

Layer height: 0.2 mm

Infill: 30-40%

Support structures: Only required for overhanging parts

Print the cam that lifts the needles with the lowest layer height possible. I have printed this with 0.08mm. It should also be printed from PETG. You can find the exact settings on my website.

Print all required parts and check that they fit correctly.

As soon as everything has been assembled, you can start testing.

Yarn feed: To start, feed the yarn through a hole in the top of the machine. The yarn is then threaded around all the needles in a circle to prepare it for the knitting process.

Starting the machine: Once the yarn has been threaded around all the needles, you can start the machine. The yarn moves slowly around the needles and stable stitches are formed in the first round. If a perfect stitch is not yet formed, you can let the machine run for a few rounds to fine-tune it.

Needle mechanism: The machine works with special latch needles (knitting needles with a lockable hook), which are guided over the needles by a rotating cam (lifting mechanism). This cam raises and lowers the needles precisely so that the stitches can form over the hooks of the needles. It may take a little practice at first to understand the mechanism, but with a little patience everything runs smoothly.

Make sure that the yarn does not have too much tension, as this can lead to problems. An even and loose yarn flow ensures even stitches and a flawless knitting pattern.

As soon as you have created a piece of cord, the pull-off mechanism ensures that the resulting material is transported evenly and without further intervention. The speed of the haul-off can be adjusted via the gear ratio. It is important to test this setting carefully so that the cord does not get caught on the needles.

The machine offers a variety of needle guide mandrels that vary in number and diameter. For example, you can start with a 4-needle mandrel and gradually switch to a mandrel with more needles depending on the yarn thickness. Depending on the project and the desired result, you can also vary the number of needles to adapt the knitting process even better to your yarn.

The cord knitting machine is extremely versatile and can be adapted to different yarn thicknesses and types. With the option to individually adjust the number of needles, the cord diameter and the pull-off mechanism speed, you can design every cord exactly how you want it - ideal for creative projects or DIY projects.

Thanks to the wide range of adjustment options, you have enormous flexibility when it comes to making your cords. Whether thick or fine yarn - with a few adjustments you will always get the desired result. This machine is your perfect companion for creative projects, fashion accessories or simply for making practical ropes.

With patience and practice, you will soon develop a good feel for the correct handling and be able to make fantastic cords with this simple but flexible cord knitting machine!