The circular moulding machines - the heart of Merz b. Schwanen
Loop knitting machines, also known as loopwheelers, were developed in 1926 by the Italian inventor Giuseppe Negra. The production of textiles with these machines is something very special, as they were unable to keep up with production for a long time due to globalisation and the associated economic growth and therefore disappeared from the scene. People wanted new clothes faster and faster and more and more, but the world and consumerism are changing again. Thanks to the pursuit of deceleration and sustainability, circular knitting machines have been experiencing a renaissance for some years now.
But how do circular knitting machines actually work?
Probably the most important reason for the decline in the use of the machines was the production speed: circular knitting machines need around one hour of knitting time for just one metre of fabric.
Each machine is fitted with over 1000 small needles, which were still made by hand at the time and knit the thread coming from the bobbin, one row after the other. Each machine has small irregularities in the knitted fabric, which vary from machine to machine. They give the fabric its very individual texture, but also make it very resistant. And since every top is produced without side seams, there is a circular knitting machine with the right diameter for every size of garment. The impressive uniqueness of the materials produced in this way can be felt as soon as they are worn for the first time.
Each piece is made with great care and patience so that you can hold only the best quality in your hands.
