The ‘contra’ knitting technique

*Also known as ‘contra’, ‘relative’ or ‘shared loop’ knitting technique.

I*n the conventional circular knitting machine the relative action between sinker and the needle was occurred at 90°
angle. On the other hand, in machines deploying ‘contra’ knitting technique, besides the normal radial
movement between the needles, the sinkers move vertically down, in opposition to the needles rise to
clearing height, and rise as the needles descend to knock-over.

Figure: The Relanit contra knitting action

*Contra knitting technique reduces the extent of the needle movement. Due to less yarn/metal contact
points the tendency to ‘rob back’ is reduced .This also produces less knitting element stress, improves
fabric quality, ‘handles’ yarns more gently, and enables weaker and lower quality yarns to be knitted.

*Two different approaches are being used for ‘contra’ knitting technique:
• The Mayer Relanit : It uses specially designed sinkers that occupy adjacent cylinder tricks
to the needles, thus dispensing with the sinker cam ring and improving accessibility. The
sinkers pivot on a fulcrum point that produces the horizontal
• The Monarch ‘Z’ or ‘Slant Sinker’ technology employs conventional holding down/
knock-over sinkers that move diagonally along a 20 degree inclined dial
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Reference : Knitting Technology by David J Spencer

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