Sock knitting machine

Portable bench mounted machine for manually knitting socks. The item has a cast iron frame, which fastens onto a workbench with two thumb screws. On turning a handle, an internal spindle rotates and as it does, a series of kneedles rise and fall in sequence. An iron rod approximately 600mm in length is mounted vertically to the main frame. The rod is fitted with guides which accept and lead the skeins of wool down towards the rotary mechanism. The cast iron frame is painted gloss black. The main visibile element of the rotary mechanism is chrome plated.

During both world wars, sending comforts to the troops – such as socks – was a common way for mothers, sisters, wives and friends to express their support to those serving overseas. Knitting and mending socks was one of the main voluntary contributions of organisations such as the Australian Comforts Fund. AWM photograph 051914 shows Australian Comforts Fund volunteers operating similar sock knitting machines.