Choosing Between Cone or Yarn Balls for Your Knitting Machine and Dial Settings Explained

helenB-a
6 days ago
4 min read

Knitting machines offer a fantastic way to create fabric quickly and efficiently, but choosing the right yarn and settings can make all the difference in your finished project. One common question among knitters is whether to use yarn from cones or yarn balls, and how to adjust the machine’s dial settings to match the yarn type. This post will guide you through the pros and cons of each yarn form, explain how to select the right dial number on your knitting machine carriage, and share practical tips to get the best results.

Close-up view of yarn cone and yarn ball side by side on a wooden table — Comparison of yarn cone and yarn ball for knitting machines

Understanding Yarn Forms: Cone vs Yarn Balls

Yarn comes in various forms, but cones and yarn balls are the most common for machine knitting. Each has unique characteristics that affect how the yarn feeds through your knitting machine.

Yarn Cones

Yarn cones are large, cylindrical spools that hold a continuous length of yarn. They are often used in industrial or high-volume knitting because they provide a steady supply without frequent breaks.

Advantages of Yarn Cones:

Consistent tension: The yarn unwinds smoothly, reducing the chance of tension issues.
Less frequent replacement: Large quantity means fewer interruptions during knitting.
Ideal for fine or medium yarns: Cones often hold thinner yarns suitable for detailed machine work.

Disadvantages of Yarn Cones:

Bulkier setup: Requires a yarn stand or holder to allow free unwinding.
Not always easy to find in specialty yarns: Some hand-dyed or textured yarns are rarely sold on cones.

Yarn Balls

Yarn balls are wound into compact, round shapes, often by hand or machine. They are common for hand knitting but also used with knitting machines.

Advantages of Yarn Balls:

Easier to store and handle: Compact size fits well in small spaces.
Wide variety of yarn types: Many specialty and textured yarns come in balls.
No need for a yarn stand: Can be placed directly near the machine.

Disadvantages of Yarn Balls:

Potential tension issues: Yarn may pull unevenly if the ball rolls or tangles.
More frequent replacement: Smaller quantity means you may need to change balls often.
Risk of yarn breakage: Pulling from the outside or inside can cause knots or snags.

Which Yarn Size is Better for Your Knitting Machine?

The choice between cones and yarn balls depends on your project, machine type, and personal preference.

For large projects or continuous knitting: Yarn cones are better because they provide a steady feed and reduce interruptions.
For small projects or specialty yarns: Yarn balls offer more variety and convenience.
If your machine has a yarn feeder or tension mast: Cones work well because the yarn can unwind smoothly.
If you knit in a small space: Yarn balls are easier to manage.

Many knitters use a combination: cones for base yarns and balls for accents or textured details.

Dial Settings on Your Knitting Machine Carriage

The dial on your knitting machine carriage controls stitch size and tension. Setting it correctly for your yarn type is crucial to avoid dropped stitches, uneven tension, or fabric that is too tight or loose.

Understanding Dial Numbers

Lower dial numbers (e.g., 1-3): Produce tighter stitches, suitable for thinner yarns.
Medium dial numbers (e.g., 4-6): Work well with medium-weight yarns.
Higher dial numbers (e.g., 7-10): Create looser stitches, ideal for bulky or textured yarns.

Matching Dial Settings to Yarn Type

| Yarn Type | Yarn Form | Recommended Dial Setting |

|------------------------------------------|--------------------|--------------------------------------|

| Fine yarn (lace, fingering). | Cone or ball | 1 to 3 |

| Medium yarn (DK, sport) | Cone or ball | 4 to 6 |

| Bulky yarn | Usually balls | 7 to 10 |

| Textured or novelty yarns | Usually balls | 7 to 10 |

Tips for Adjusting Dial Settings

Start with a test swatch: Knit a small sample to see how the yarn behaves at different dial settings.
Watch tension carefully: If stitches look tight or fabric puckers, increase the dial number.
If stitches drop or fabric feels loose: Lower the dial number.
Adjust gradually: Small changes can make a big difference.

Practical Advice for Using Yarn with Your Knitting Machine

Setting Up Yarn Cones

Use a yarn stand or holder to keep the cone stable.
Make sure the yarn unwinds smoothly without catching.
Check tension regularly and adjust the machine dial if needed.

Handling Yarn Balls

Place the ball in a bowl or yarn holder to prevent rolling.
Pull yarn from the center to reduce tangling.
Monitor tension closely, especially if the ball moves while knitting.

Combining Yarn Types

When mixing yarns, adjust the dial to suit the thicker or more textured yarn.
Consider knitting separate panels with different yarns and joining them later.
Use consistent tension to avoid uneven fabric.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Using the wrong dial setting: Leads to dropped stitches or tight fabric. Always test first.
Ignoring yarn tension: Yarn that pulls too hard or too loosely causes machine jams or uneven knitting.
Not securing yarn cones: Causes yarn to snag or break.

Summary

Choosing between yarn cones and yarn balls depends on your knitting machine setup, project size, and yarn type. Cones offer smooth, continuous yarn feed ideal for large or fine projects, while balls provide versatility and convenience for smaller or textured yarns. Adjusting the dial number on your knitting machine carriage to match your yarn ensures even stitches and smooth knitting. Start with test swatches and adjust tension gradually to find the perfect balance.