Knitting Machines & Compatible Ribbers (Brother & Silver Reed Charts)

Welcome fellow machine knitting enthusiasts! If you've ever delved into the world of these fantastic fabric-making devices, you've likely encountered a confusing array of brand names. Today, we're going to unravel the mystery behind the two major knitting machine brands and, crucially, pair them with their compatible ribber attachments. Understanding these relationships is key to expanding your creative possibilities and ensuring you're using the right equipment.

Let's break down the two giants in the home knitting machine world: Brother and Silver Reed.

The Silver Reed Universe (A Multitude of Names!)

Silver Reed Ltd. of Japan also produced a vast array of knitting machines, and their branding strategy involved using different names depending on the market. All the following names indicate a machine manufactured by Silver Reed:

• Silver Reed (the primary brand)

• Singer (primarily in North America)

• Studio (primarily in North America)

• Knitmaster (primarily in the UK, Europe, and Australia)

• Empisal (primarily in South Africa and Australia)

• Elna

Understanding this interconnectedness is incredibly helpful when searching for information, parts, or accessories, as resources for one brand will often apply to its rebranded counterparts.

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A Note on "Cross-Generational" Compatibility: The tables below show the officially recommended ribber for each machine, which guarantees a perfect fit and access to all features. However, because the fundamental gauge (e.g., 4.5mm standard) remained consistent, some older ribbers can be used on newer machines (and vice-versa). While this can be a great way to save money, be aware that you might encounter minor fitment issues or lose access to specific features (like pile knitting) that were introduced with the newer models. Always research the specific pairing you're considering.

Understanding the branding relationships and technical specifications like bed material is a crucial first step in navigating the world of machine knitting. When looking for a ribber for your machine, always prioritize the model number of both the main bed and the ribber to ensure proper compatibility. Whether you're hunting for a durable metal workhorse or a lightweight plastic portable, knowing these details will help you make a good choice.

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Silver Reed (and its Aliases) Machine and Compatible Ribber Chart

Main Bed Model	Compatible Ribber Model	Type of Machine	Bed Material
Fine Gauge (3.6mm)
SK-270	SRP-60N	Punch Card	Metal
SK-830	SR-860N	Electronic	Metal
Standard Gauge (4.5mm)
SK-280 / Studio 280 / Knitmaster 280	SRP-60N	Punch Card	Metal
SK-360 / Singer 360	SRP-50	Punch Card	Metal
SK-560 / Studio 560	SRP-50	Electronic	Metal
SK-580 / Knitmaster 580	SRP-50	Electronic	Metal
SK-700 / Studio 700 / Knitmaster 700	SRP-60N	Punch Card	Metal
SK-840 / Studio 840	SRP-60N	Electronic	Metal
Mid-Gauge (6.5mm)
LK150 / Knitmaster 150	N/A	Manual	Plastic
SK-160	SR-160	Punch Card	Metal
SK-860	SR-860N	Electronic	Metal
Bulky Gauge (9mm)
LK100	N/A	Manual	Plastic
SK-151	SR-151	Manual	Metal
SK-155 / Studio 155 / Knitmaster 155	SR-155	Punch Card	Metal

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The Brother Family (Also Known As...)

Brother Industries, a Japanese company, manufactured a wide range of high-quality knitting machines. In North America, these machines were often sold under the brand name Knitking. So, if you see either of these names, you're looking at the same family of machines! Brother machines are overwhelmingly known for their durable metal beds.

Brother/Knitking Machine and Compatible Ribber Chart

Main Bed Model	Compatible Ribber Model	Type of Machine	Bed Material
Standard Gauge (4.5mm)
KH-830, KH-836, KH-840	KR-830 / KR-850	Punch Card	Metal
KH-860 / Knitking PC-860	KR-850	Punch Card	Metal
KH-868, KH-881, KH-891	KR-850	Electronic	Metal
KH-910, KH-930, KH-940	KR-900	Electronic	Metal
KH-950, KH-950i	KR-900	Electronic	Metal
KH-965, KH-965i, KH-970	KR-900	Electronic	Metal
KH-400	KR-400	Punch Card	Plastic
Mid-Gauge (7mm)
KX-350	N/A	Manual	Plastic
Bulky Gauge (9mm)
KH-230	KR-230	Manual	Metal
KH-260 / Knitking Bulky	KR-260	Punch Card	Metal
KH-270	KR-260	Electronic	Metal
KH-280	KR-260	Punch Card	Metal