For over 50 years dozens of inventors patented their various machines for the home knitting industry in an attempt to simplify design and operation of the machines.

Knitting machines were already being used in factories but in the early 1900s companys like Gearhart and Auto Knitter tried to cash in on women and children who could work at home.

The Auto Knitter Company closed it's doors in 1927 although some machines were still sold for several years thereafter.

On a machine that is working well, a pair of socks can be knit in about an hour. Mittens, scarves, and other items can be knit on them as well.