What is Sentro
Sentro is a brand of affordable plastic circular knitting machines that became a phenomenon thanks to social media. It is the most accessible entry point into machine knitting — the price ranges from around £20–60. It comes in two main variants: Sentro 48 (48 needles, diameter approx. 22 cm) and Sentro 22 (22 needles, diameter approx. 14 cm).
Sentro 48 vs. Sentro 22
| Feature | Sentro 48 | Sentro 22 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of needles | 48 | 22 |
| Diameter | ~22 cm | ~14 cm |
| Suitable for | Adult hats, cowls | Children's hats, socks |
| Recommended yarn | DK–worsted | Fingering–DK |
| Row counter | Yes | Usually no |
How to Get Started — Your First Project
Preparation
Place the machine on a table (the suction cups will hold it in place). Thread the yarn through the guide at the top. Choose a smooth acrylic worsted weight yarn — it is forgiving and does not slip off the plastic needles.
Casting On
Turn the handle counter-clockwise. The yarn gradually catches on the needles. After one full rotation you have cast on. Check that all needles have caught the yarn.
Knitting
Continue turning. A new row is formed with each rotation. The weight (the arrow at the bottom) pulls the knitting downward. After 40–60 rows you have a tube ready for a hat.
Removing from the Machine
Cut the yarn leaving a 30 cm tail. Thread the yarn onto a needle by hand and draw it through all the stitches, then pull tight — the top of the hat is done. Sew or fold the brim.
Common Problems
Dropped stitches — the most common problem. Cause: yarn tension too loose, uneven turning, or worn needles. Solution: maintain a slight tension on the yarn and turn smoothly.
Uneven stitches — plastic needles have greater tolerances than metal ones. The result will never be as even as with more expensive machines. For better results try a metal version or the Addi Express.
Yarn jamming — yarn that is too thick or too fluffy. Use smooth yarn of the appropriate weight.
Sentro vs. Addi Express
| Feature | Sentro 48 | Addi Express (46 needles) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £20–60 | £120–200 |
| Needle material | Plastic | Metal |
| Stitch quality | Satisfactory | Excellent |
| Durability | Lower | High |
| Dropped stitches | More frequent | Rare |
| Best for | Trying it out, hobby use | Regular use |
Summary
Sentro is great for trying out machine knitting without a large investment. If machine knitting hooks you and you want better quality, move on to the Addi Express or a metal machine. If you just want to quickly knit hats as gifts, Sentro is more than enough.
