Textiles Hub Agreement

This page is a draft version of the shared space agreement for the Textiles Hub. As students taking a course that uses the knitting machine, you do not bear the same responsibilities as an independent user of the space. However, it is still recommended that you review the agreement. The TAs or staff holding open hours will be responsible for logging, scheduling, and tracking.

CoDES Textiles Hub – Knitting Machine Shared Space Agreement

1. Logistics & Scheduling

  • Refer to the CoDES Textiles Hub calendar for open and occupied hours.
  • Before coming to the hub, schedule your session by adding a calendar entry and checking for conflicts.
  • Do not occupy the knitting machine for more than two hours at a time. If you have multiple tasks, split them into separate sessions. Exceptions can be made for large projects if needed.
  • Log every session in the shared tracking spreadsheet, including:
    • Time spent in the hub
    • Knitting patterns run
    • Any errors encountered and how they were resolved
    • Any yarn changes (including yarns changed on carriers or threaded into empty carriers)
  • Never leave the knitting machine unattended.
    • If the machine is running, you must stay in the room.
    • When a task finishes, turn the machine off immediately.

2. Machine Use

  • Training is required before using the knitting machine.
  • Do not change the machine speed or stitch settings unless necessary.
  • Before each use, inspect the machine for any visible damage or broken parts.

3. Safety & Supervision

  • When using non-standard materials (e.g., metal wires or conductive fibers):
    • Ask around for prior experience.
    • Start with very small test patterns.
    • When possible, test first on a hand knitting machine to check how the material behaves.
  • During open hours, individuals without training or with less experience may:
    • Enter the hub, receive training, or work on the knitting machine with the assistance of student monitors and/or lab technicians.
  • Unless explicitly approved to work alone, you must have a buddy present in the hub while using the machine.
  • If the machine encounters an error you are unsure how to resolve:
    • Document the issue.
    • Return the machine to its original state as best as possible.
    • Contact student monitors and/or lab technicians for assistance.
  • Do not place your hands or any part of your body inside the machine while it is running.
    • Even when the machine is off, avoid doing so unless absolutely necessary (e.g., when a piece is stuck and cannot be removed using pressed-off knitting).

4. General Best Practices

  • If you are the first user of the day, it is recommended to begin with a test run and needle training.
  • Always start with small test patterns before running larger or final patterns.
  • Avoid large racking values (e.g., rack > 2), as they increase the risk of yarn breakage and machine issues.
  • Transfers can cause problems, especially if yarn tension is not well adjusted.
    • Avoid them when possible, or use them sparingly and in grouped sections.
  • Avoid re-threading yarns on the carriers unless necessary.
    • If you do re-thread, document it in the log.
  • Keep the machine and surrounding area clean and organized.