Re-assemble a previously shortened LK150 knitting machine -

If you have an LK150 or LK140 knitting machine, you can easily shorten the length by taking out one or more sections. Why do you want to do that? It will be light weighted, take up little space, and look really cute!

I shortened an LK150 by taking out one section, and it fits my luggage for international travel. I just need a working section, so I can still play with it during the long quarantine days in a hotel room.

And yes, you can put everything together once you are back home. The following video shows how I assembled the pieces, so it returns to normal size again.

The LK150 is one of my favorite knitting machines because it is light weighted, knits smoothly, and the construction is simple and durable. You can modify it easily. Many people connect two LK150 knitting machines to knit bigger blankets without seaming. I will have to try that someday in the future.

Watch the video of how to put back the shortened LK150 knitting machine

The LK150 knitting machine construction

The LK150 knitting machine is basically made of 4 sections, including 2 big sections in the center, and 2 small sections at the ends. The sections are connected by a metal plate and screws from the back.

So you can decide which pieces you want to take out, and which pieces to remain. Some issues to consider when shortening a knitting machine.

We still need the 2 clamps to secure them onto a table. So check the “holes” below, so after shortening, you still have 2 slots to insert the clamps.
Location of the row counter and mast. Similar to the previous problem, we can make sure there are slots in the right position after we shorten the knitting machine. They should both be close to the center to function the best.
The sponge will also need to be shortened. You can cut it, or fold it to the back and tape it down, so you can reuse the sponge later. If you don’t mind, you can always install a new sponge.
The numbering indicator will also need to be shortened or removed temporarily. I just remove it completely for the trip and tape it back later. You can always mark one a piece of tape to indicate numbers.

Other tips for a shortened LK150 knitting machine

The location of the mast and row counter can be moved. Check the backside of the machine. There are some screw holes and openings to insert the baseplate. You can move around the location of the mast and row counter easily.

Tape down the screws, metal plates, and even loose needles, so they don’t shift or get lost. It is easy to lose the small screws. Tape them down somewhere with the spare section of the machine, so they don’t get lost.

Don’t forget to bring a small screwdriver for assembling the metal plates at the back. Just in case you can not find the right screwdriver at your destination.

That is all! I also put the tools (transferring tools, latch tools, claw weights, and binder clips…) in a separate plastic bag. Ready to have fun anytime.