Brother KH 800

Brother KH-800
Manufacturer	Brother
Model	KH-800
Gauge	Standard
Type	Domestic
Patterning	12 stitch punch card
Needles	200
Release Year	1971
Accessories	Lace Carriage, Extension Rails, Table Clamps, 12-Stitch Punch Cards
Also Known As	Jones KH-800

The Brother KH-800 is a standard gauge (4.5mm) punchcard knitting machine. Released in the early 1970s, it is a significant transitional model as it features a 12-stitch patterning repeat utilizing a specialized punch card system. It served as the predecessor to the more common 24-stitch repeat systems found in later models like the KH-820 and KH-881.

Key Features

• 12-Stitch Punch Card System: Unlike the later 24-stitch standard, the KH-800 uses cards with a 12-stitch width. This allows for automatic patterning for tuck, slip, and fair isle, though with a smaller repeat size than modern vintage standards.
• Metal Bed Construction: Known for high durability and a rigid metal bed housing 200 needles at a 4.5mm pitch.
• Manual Needle Selection: While it features a punch card for automatic patterning, it also supports manual selection for specialized stitch work.
• Lace Capability: Compatible with a dedicated lace carriage that utilizes the 12-stitch card system for transfer patterns.

Technical Specifications

• Gauge: 4.5mm (Standard)
• Patterning Width: 12 stitches
• Needle Count: 200
• Pitch: 4.5mm

Maintenance

The KH-800 uses a standard foam-based Sponge Bar (needle retaining bar). Because of the machine's age, this foam is almost certainly degraded in "as-found" units and must be replaced to prevent needle damage or carriage jams.