Erlbacher Homecoming & Crank-In Recap

Since July 2022, I have been learning to knit socks on the Erlbacher Speedster circular sock machine (CSM). It has been an amazing way to play with hand-dyed yarns, and to see the colours that we dye come to life in these knitted items. Every day I’m learning more and more about what it takes to make a good sock, and in a time when we seem to replace our electronics every couple of years, it is so fascinating to me that these CSM machines have existed for over a hundred years.

The Erlbacher Homecoming & Crank-In is an annual event that is hosted by Erlbacher Gear and Machine Works, the company that makes the Erlbacher knitting machine. Last January when I placed an order for a new CSM, I almost right away started getting messages that I should attend this event. This May, I finally decided to go…

I would love to hear about what has helped you learn CSM knitting. If you’ve been to a crank-in event, what was the best part of going? There are lots of crank-ins starting up in all different areas, and so I encourage you to check those out.

IN THIS EPISODE

• what I’m wearing in today’s video: I’m wearing the Laia design by Isabell Kraemer, knit in SweetGeorgia Flaxen Silk Fine in Beach House.
• what I’m talking about in today’s video: Here are quick links to items mentioned in the vlog…
  • My Circular Sock Machine (CSM) by Erlbacher Knitting Machines is the Speedster, with 60 and 72 cylinders, equal slot ribber for both sizes, and a reduced ratio crank, in a custom Wild Mulberry colour.
  • Find more of my CSM videos at the SweetGeorgia YouTube channel.
  • Vendors shown: Kaleidotoes hand-dyed yarn, Good Karma Farm sock yarn with lycra, Brenda and Heather Yarns self-striping yarn, Joyce Knits and Sews electric cone winder and CSM accessories.
  • All of the classes from the event were live-streamed and can be found at the Erlbacher YouTube channel.
  • My travel case is the Nanuk 935 hard case with foam cut into a custom shape.
  • I encourage you to visit the Circular Sock Knitting Machine Societies (CKSMS) website for more resources on how to learn CSM knitting.