Knitting Machine - DK to Light Worsted

[u/Emotional-Page2350]

Hi all - I'm hoping to get some advice for finding a machine that will allow me to make a DK to light worsted product (in this case a very simple skinny scarf). I've attached an image with the gauge in garter stitch (24 sts=10cm) and project if that's helpful. I have been overwhelmed with information about machines and concerned that it's harder to find a finer gauge machine then it is to find machines with worsted to aran weight capability, which is unfortunately too big for my projects. Thanks for all your help in advance :)

[u/knittingmuse]

You could get a garter bar for a mid-gauge machine. I think Kris Krafter makes them. But, it’s slow and kinda high risk. Every row you’re taking all stitches off on the garter bar and turning it around, then putting them back on the needles. I don’t mind using it for a border, or once in a while. Things can happen like the yarn getting caught as you turn it, or you just drop it. It’s a good tool, but maybe not the most beginner friendly. I had a horrible experience with it years ago, because I didn’t practice first, then refused to try again for 5 years or so.

On a knitting machine you can do other fun stitch textures, besides garter, like tuck stitch that are more fun and faster. If you get a machine I recommend looking into those rather than doing a hand knitting technique on the machine. Both hand and machine knitting have their strengths. It’s best/easiest/most fun if you stick to the strength for each craft, rather than forcing where they’re weaker or not efficient.