CSM: Circular Sock Knitting Machine

thingiverse

This is a circular sock knitting machine I designed. It is based on the vintage metal machines (Legare, Auto Knitter, etc), but modified for 3D printing. DISCLAIMER: I had no experience with knitting machines before making this. I based the design off pictures / videos of the vintage machines from the internet. It works for me, but print at your own risk. Also, the assembly isn't for everybody. There is a lot of metal cutting, filing, drilling, sanding, gluing, bending, etc. If these aren't in your skill set, you may want to look at other designs that are completely plastic. Please watch all of the videos before printing. I don't want to discourage anyone, just want to let you know what is involved. Please add any questions / suggestions in the comments on Thingiverse so everyone can see them. I do not follow all of the forums on Facebook, Reddit, Ravelry, etc. If you want me to reply, this is the place to post. Version History: v1: Release 12/24/20 v2: Added heel spring / brake. Increased length / changed shape of upthrow cams. Changed shape of yarn carrier guide. Added row counter. Added extra cylinder sizes. 2/7/21 N/A: Added note about cylinder spring width. Added extra disclaimer. 8/4/21 Parts List: Needles (style #7, 12 ga, for Auto Knitter / Legare, regular size hook): https://angoravalley.com/sockmachines/accessories.html Cylinder Spring (0.11" wide): https://angoravalley.com/sockmachines/accessories.html Skateboard bearing: 8mm ID x 22mm OD x 7mm thick O1 drill rod (unhardened / tight tolerance): 1/8" and 8mm diameters 1/16" music wire (spring steel) Metal rod: 1/4" dia. (from hardware store) Misc. lengths of M3 cap screws, nuts, and washers (2X) 8mm to 8mm shaft coupler, 14mm OD 1/4" x 2-3/4" long bolt with nuts and washer Torsion springs (left & right hand): McMaster-Carr # 9271K153 and 9271K157 Brass tubing: 1/8" ID x 5/32" OD (from hobby store) 1/2" Baltic birch plywood and wood screws (optional) 30 min epoxy / hot glue Digital counter: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01875612U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 3D Printing: PETG or ABS. Not sure how PLA would work (may be too brittle). UPDATE: I have heard several people say that it works fine with PLA. 0.2mm layer height. 4 layers top / bottom. 4 perimeters. 20% infill. I tried to design everything without supports, but you will need them on a few parts. Have fun! Steve