If you’re a machine knitter, you know the importance of maintaining your machine for a smooth knitting experience. One key component that often needs replacing is the sponge bar, which helps hold the yarn in place and maintains even tension. Instead of buying a new sponge bar, you can easily replace the worn foam with weather stripping. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the switch!
What You’ll Need
Weather stripping: Frost King Rubber Foam Weather Seal, 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) wide and 7/16 inch (11 mm) thick
Scissors
Measuring tape or ruler
Rubbing alcohol or household cleaner
Cotton cloth or paper towels
Goo Gone (for sticky residue)
Flathead screwdriver
Medical Tape
Pen or pencil (preferably one with a nice eraser)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Remove the Old Sponge Bar
First, unplug your knitting machine (if applicable) and ensure it’s completely turned off.
To remove the sponge bar, take a pen or pencil and insert the eraser end into the sponge bar slot. Push the sponge bar out the other side just enough so you can grab it. Gently slide it out while keeping it level with the floor to avoid bending or catching it on the needles.
Scrape Out the Old Sponge
Bring the sponge bar to an area covered with newspaper to catch any old debris. Using a large flathead screwdriver, carefully scrape out the old sponge material. It should come out relatively easily.
If there’s any sticky residue left from the old sponge, apply a small amount of Goo Gone and let it soak for a moment. This will help loosen any stubborn glue.
Clean the Sponge Bar
After scraping, clean the sponge bar to remove any oily residue from the Goo Gone. Use a regular household cleaner and a cloth to ensure the surface is clean and dry.
Prepare the Weather Stripping
Measure the length of the sponge bar to determine how much weather stripping you’ll need. While the Frost King Rubber Foam Weather Seal should fit most knitting machines, it’s always a good idea to measure just in case.
Starting at one end of the sponge bar, remove the waxy strip from the weather stripping to reveal the sticky side. Center it down the middle of the sponge bar. Hold your thumb and forefinger on either side of the sponge bar to ensure it adheres straight.
Secure the Ends
At the very ends of the sponge bar, wrap a small piece of medical tape around each end of the weather stripping. This will help keep the foam in place when you slide the sponge bar back into the machine.
Reinsert the Sponge Bar
Carefully insert the newly refurbished sponge bar back into the knitting machine. Ensure it fits securely and is aligned correctly.
Clean Up
Once everything is in place, clean up your work area and dispose of any debris or old materials.
Enjoy Your Knitting!
Now that you’ve successfully replaced the foam on your knitting machine’s sponge bar with weather stripping, you can get back to creating beautiful projects with confidence. A well-maintained machine makes all the difference in your knitting experience, so remember to check the condition of your sponge bar regularly. Happy knitting, and may your needles fly smoothly through every stitch!