Instead of forming each stitch individually by hand, a knitting machine holds an entire row of stitches on its needles and knits them with a pass of the carriage.

Imagine knitting 200 stitches in seconds.

You still choose the yarn, shape the garment, and control the color, texture, and design. The machine simply gives you a faster way to turn your ideas into knitted fabric.

Knitting machines come in different gauges, designed to work with different weights of yarn. The best machine for you depends largely on what you want to make and the yarns you want to use.

From lightweight sweaters and knitwear to cozy sweaters and bulkier knits, there is a machine designed for the job.

New knitting machines generally range from about $500 to $2,000, depending on the type of machine and its features. Used machines can often be found for considerably less.

You do not need the most expensive machine to get started. The right machine depends on what you want to knit.

A knitting machine needs surprisingly little space. Plan on a sturdy table or stand with a working area of about 48 inches wide by 12 inches deep.

It does not have to stay set up permanently. Most machines can be securely packed away for storage when you are not using them.

You do not need to be a hand knitter to learn machine knitting, although experience with yarn and stitches can certainly help.

Like any craft, there is a new vocabulary and a few basic skills to learn. But it does not have to be difficult. Learn one step at a time, practice the basics, and build your skills as you go.