SIMPLEFRAME KNITTER
A while ago I found a collectible knitting machine. The Simpleframe knitting machine model S100. It was made in the UK. I found a YouTube video of the first Simpleframe machine created. It was invented by Dr. P.J. Reilly, and it was a long triangle that you could put on your lap. I have never seen anything like it. It is simply brilliant!
I made a lap blanket, and I was surprised at how easy it was. So, I decided to make a scarf and take some pictures. Click on the link below to watch the video. steps.
https://youtu.be/e9b2b_1-2zQ
https://youtu.be/e9b2b_1-2zQ
It takes practice to learn how to use the knitter. The tension of the yarn is probably the hardest thing to learn since there are two wooden latches on each side of the frame that hold the yarn and that have a screw that you can tighten or loosen to control the tension. You have to keep trying to get the right tension.
The tension rod is not that easy to use either. It consists of a metal rod held by two loops attached to a gear that turns to roll up the fabric. This is a substitute for claw weights in regular knitting machines. When the piece is too long the gear doesn’t turn, so you have to turn the gear in the opposite direction to let the work free, then you settle the metal rod higher, so you start to tighten the work again.
Here are some pictures.
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| The Simpleframe Handbook |
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| Tension Rod |
Below is a picture of the lap blanket I knitted on the Simpleframe. As you can see my Kitty Quality Control Team approved. Success!
I absolutely love this machine. It is not fancy, has no bells and whistles, but gets the job done. It is light, and it comes with a bag so you can carry it wherever you go. As you can see in the pictures, I was working on a little foldable table while watching TV.
The name of the company that made this knitter was Frame Knitting Ltd., in Oakham, England. The company closed in 2009. It saddens me to think that these beautiful machines are not made any longer.
I will keep collecting them and showing them with the hope, someday, they will return.
Helen Textile Crafts 
I agree these are the most wonderful machines I have 5 of them the 120 2 of the 96 one 48 and a s100 I have many knitting machines and these are my favourites I wish I was rich so I could put these clever machines back on the market all I can do is write an updated pattern book for them which I am trying to do now
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I would do the same if I hit the jackpot! 😉
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Glad to be one of the visitors on this awe inspiring web site : D. yarn stores
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Knitting is a hobby that is enjoyed by many, and it is easy to understand why – not only is this an activity which is very calming and relaxing, but it is also a very creative one, allowing knitters to create a variety of colourful garments and accessories for themselves and for their loved ones. Free Crochet Patterns
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Thanks!
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Hi, I am hoping to buy a flat single bed Simpleframe if anyone has one for sale please?
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Hi Susan,
Unfortunately, this is a collector’s item. I have been looking for the one shaped like a triangle (the original one), but I can’t find it anywhere! I set up an alert on eBay and I am hoping to find one, but nothing has showed up so far. I suggest you check Etsy and eBay on regular basis, you may get lucky and find one. Good luck!
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I recently found one of these on eBay after a couple of years patiently waiting and placing search alerts.
I’m not entirely sure which model it is, it’s a triangle so knits in rubbing pattern and doesn’t have a stocking torch attachment. I keep counting the needles and get to 98 or 99. It also doesn’t seem to have any thread tensioning as per the manual I found online. I’m wondering if they are missing or if this model never had any. The tensioning isn’t too bad without, I place a ball of wool on my knitting Jeanie and it seems to be doing okay. I’m looking for some knitting patterns if anyone has a lead I’d much appreciate it.
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