Designing with Kniterate

Session 1 introduces the basic principles of knitting technology; that is, how the fundamental knitting stitches are made on the machine. We'll then move onto yarn weight, yarn conversions, and selecting the correct yarns for the Kniterate.

After a walkthrough of the design app, we'll set up the transfers and the stitch arrangements necessary to transition from the Kniterate start (waste yarn) module to successful 1x1 and a 2x1 rib welts. The next steps will be transferring to a plain jersey and developing garter ridges in the design app.

This first session is especially for those with little or no machine knitting experience. It's also a good fit for those with a machine knitting background but lacking experience with machine knitting software.

Session 2 focuses on both single jacquard with floats (also known as fairisle) and double jacquard. Binding off is also presented.

We will use two different approaches to the jacquards. If you are a DesignaKnit 9 user, steps for exporting jacquards from DAK 9 to the Kniterate design app are introduced. If you rather work without DAK 9, we'll prepare artwork with an external application and then set up the file for birdseye jacquard in the Kniterate design app. You will be shown different backings for these two double jacquards.

For those who knit scarves and blankets, the Kniterate bind-off command is an essential asset. The most important bind-off options for your knitting project are presented. And we will troubleshoot the most common errors.

This class assumes familiarity with the basic knitting functions, in particular knit and transfer. (If you need a review, please visit Session 1 of this series.)

The tuck is one of machine knitting's basic operations. In Session 3 we'll cover the tuck loop's properties, its effects on knitted fabric, and how to use the tuck with Kniterate.

We get started with two basic tuck patterns — the cardigan and half cardigan stitches. We'll move on to two-color variations of the cardigan stitch. Next we'll combine a couple of basic stitch structures to create a couple of advanced stitch patterns.

Included with this session are transitions from the Start Module to the new stitch patterns and a new welt is introduced for an advanced tuck pattern. Methods for programming jersey tuck patterns on the Kniterate are covered, as well as the use of the plating slit.

Tucks can indeed add wonderful texture to your knitting.They also serve a very utilitarian purpose when used as a join in short row intarsia. Instructions for setting this up are included.

This class assumes a basic familiarity with the design app. If you need a review, please visit Session 1 of this series.

Shaping is an essential part of knitwear design and is considered an extensive topic. One of the many features of the updated design app is the ability to import shapes directly from popular design program DesignaKnit 9 (DAK9). Session 4 covers this new capability as well as the other preparatory steps for knitting a sweater, such as determining gauge.

Next we build the command stack necessary for knitting a sweater in the Kniterate design app. With videos, technical notes, and reference files, we cover the sequence of fully fashioned shaping and bind-off macros for the neckline, underarms, and sleeves. This sequence will apply whether the sweater is drafted in DAK9 or originates in the design app.

Session 4 assumes familiarity with the basic knitting operations on the Kniterate. While this class cannot provide shaping for every stitch pattern and every situation, this class provides instruction for using the Kniterate tools and presents a strategy for decreases and increases with single knit and basic rib fabrics.