Warp knitting is an advanced garter bar weaving technique for the flatbed knitting machines. The knitting machine creating the “weft” threads as it knits the background. Manipulation of the garter bar adds the “warp” threads to the fabric. Sounds easy, but this technique is not for the faint of heart.
The warp threads run the length of the fabric creating dramatic vertical lines on the purlside of the knitting. It’s these lines that define this technique.
Color arrangement and weight of yarn used for the background and the warp threads will change the overall appearance of the fabric. So… you will find that designs are unlimited.
But first, you must learn the basic techniques of warp knitting. And that is the topic of my video, Warp Knitting Basics!
In this video, you will learn to:
- Prepare the garter bar
- Determine the length of the warp threads
- Thread the garter bar
- Set up the machine and learn to start
- Knit the background
- Add the warp threads to the machine
- Create the weaving
- Wrap the needles
- Address problems
- End the weaving
- Bring the threaded garter bar to the back
- Complete the finishing
- Knot
- Encase the knots and loops
Although the equipment for warp knitting was originally designed for the standard gauge machine, I’ve adapted the techniques and equipment with great success to the bulky.
All you need is a garter bar that fits your flatbed machine, a presser board and 2 stop clips. In the Equipment section of the video, I’ll show you how to make your own presser board and what to use if you do not have any stop clips!
Of course, you can also download the partner pattern, the woven pocket purse. Using inexpensive materials, it’s the ideal practice project. Learn warp knitting! It’s a fascinating technique!
