Brother KR830 ribbing attachment is typically used with Brother Knitting machines, with model numbers KH8XX and KH9xx. To learn more about the pros and cons of the Brother KR830 ribber, refer to my Knitting Machine Encyclopedia.
This article is dedicated to a specific ribbing attachment, serviced and tested in May 2024 for Mercedes.
The machine was cleaned, all needles were inspected and then tested by knitting a 1×1 ribbing on the full bed. I did it in two different needle configurations to ensure I tested all needles. I also used two different yarns. Watch a video of all my tests.
I used my own Brother machine to test the ribber and to set up an optimum distance from the main bed.
You will need to do it on your own machine. I like this video, which explains really well how to do it.
The levers, brackets, knobs and buttons on the ribber and on the carriage move really well.
The ribber will come with all the accessories mentioned in the manual:
A hard copy of the manual (in English) will be included as well.
The ribber managed two different yarns (smooth and fuzzy) wonderfully. Again, refer to the video of all my tests. Just make sure you establish the correct distance between the ribber and the main bed as well as use the correct yarn tension. additionally do not forget to oil your machine and maybe even wax the yarn if you experience static or hear grinding sounds of your ribber.
When I tested the ribber, the last 3-5 needles sometimes were left in the non-working position. I did that so I could insert the wire hangers. You will see in my video that if I did not have any space to the side of the knitted panel, it would be hard to insert these changes. And they are absolutely needed to create neat edges and to ensure the yarn does not hang on the pegs.
The carriage slides very smoothly across the ribber. If you start knitting and the carriage is not moving smoothly, check the distance between the ribber and the machine, check if the connecting arm is attached correctly, wax your yarn, and decrease the tension of the yarn.
The ribber will be packed in the original cardboard packaging with the original Styrofoam inserts. They are in pretty rough shape (a bit dirty) but they still do a good job protecting the ribber and the parts.
Now about imperfections:
- The hard copy of the manual shows some discoloration. But the pages are not damaged and the text is still clear.
- Some of the barrel weights have cracks but it does not affect their functioning.
- There might be some spots and staining on the plastic of the ribber. I typically do not rub too much on the plastic to remove the dirt spots because I do not want to damage the old brittle plastic by excessive rubbing. Some scratches are present too. None of this affects the functioning of the ribber.
- I greased and lubed all the parts so you will see some residual freeze/lubricant remaining.
- Cast-on combs have some minor rust spots but it does not affect their functioning.
I enjoyed working with this ribber! Hope you will too! Happy Knitting!
