When you buy a knitting machine you are not just buying another gadget, you are making a sound investment. Once you have mastered the basic techniques, you can put your machine to profitable use to make knitwear for yourself, for your family and friends, even for sale. Getting started is the hardest part, the rest comes with experience. Hazel Ratcliffe's step-by-step introduction to the craft of machine knitting, based on her long experience as a teacher, takes you painlessly through the initial stages until you are confident and can go from strength to strength on your own. The book is packed with expert advice on what machines to buy - including state-of-the-art Japanese models - plus the essential accessories and extras you will require; care and maintenance of the machine; varieties of stitching, simple and more advanced; the very latest yarns; how to design your own knitwear; and how to make money out of your machine. Also included are 16 stylish patterns - a classic suit, dress and sweater, a fashionable mohair jumper and a luxurious shawl. There are babies' and children's garments which are both practical and fun to knit, as well as Fair Isle and cable sweaters and pullovers for men